Valab 23 step volume attenuator

[ZacharyP]

Edit:  Installed the Valab attenuator after reading JamieMcC's thread ( http://bottlehead.com/smf/index.php?topic=5284.msg50963#msg50963 ).

If you're also looking to swap the stock pot out for an upgrade you must make sure it's log/audio taper, discrete resistors are preferable to SMD type, and you should stick to the same value as the stock pot; 100k ohms

[AllanMarcus]

Today I am wiring up the Valab to the rest of the crack, but my overly cautious, perfectionist mind won't let me solder the wires in until I understand exactly what I am doing.  I've read a couple older threads on this forum about installing the Valab but just to be safe I was hoping someone could provide me with simple step by step directions, or link me to a post with a thorough explanation.

I appreciate anyone taking the time to read this.  Have a good day!

i'm interested too. Can you post pics and a link to exactly what you purchased?

[Mordicai]

I'm pretty sure its pretty straight forward, but it would have been nice is he had followed up the post. Maybe things didn't work out.

[ZacharyP]

Sorry, figured it out.  I'll post pics sometime tonight or tmrw.

I just followed the pics I eventually found posted on head-fi, if I can find the link again I will share.

You can find the attenuator for sale on eBay.

[ZacharyP]

Snapped a couple quick pics of the underside if this helps.

[AllanMarcus]

Is this the one you got?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/281647229684

[ZacharyP]

Is this the one you got?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/281647229684

No, this one but 100k value

http://m.ebay.com/itm/301568448140?nav=SEARCH

[AllanMarcus]

No, this one but 100k value

http://m.ebay.com/itm/301568448140?nav=SEARCH

This one?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/281654181885

[ZacharyP]

Yes

[Mordicai]

Thanks Zachary for the photo. Ive had the attenuator for about six months. Bought it for the Crack, saved it for Steromour, and need to put it in. Do you think you heard a difference?

[ZacharyP]

Oh yeah.  It could all be in my head of course  .  To me everything just seems clearer, more balanced and smooth.  I was slightly worried about the number of steps but 23 is more than enough!

[Mordicai]

This weeks project if I can force myself to turn it off!

[AllanMarcus]

I just ordered one for me! I will never know the difference, though, as it will go into my first build.

I just painted the top plate, and will do multiple coats and sanding to get a good gloss finish. I did manage to finish the crack phones, except for the cable, and they sound pretty good. I think I like my DT-770's better, but it's amazing what some mods can do for those inexpensive monoprice phones. Makes me wonder why they don't sell a "hi-fi" version of them for $89.

[grausch]

I installed the VALab after listening to the stock pot for a while. My stock pot had no issues and I am not sure that the sound is any better with the VALab.

That being said, it was my first mod and it is a great way to build confidence for doing other mods. Only issue with the attentuator is its physical size. If you look at JamieMcC's thread (http://bottlehead.com/smf/index.php?topic=5284.msg50963#msg50963) you will notice how he needed to mount his speedball boards with it in place.

[Mordicai]

Thats why its been sitting o my work bench for six months. The stock pot seems to work just fine. I think Id rather spend my time putting in some better caps like I have with the Stereomour.