Effects loop active master on 2 channel DR

[Tom_cheats]

is it recommended to use this as a master volume for both channels even if there's no effects in the loop. does it affect the tone? or is it better to leave it on bypass and use the channel volumes?

 

[Elpelotero]

If you would like to use it as a master volume, that is perfectly fine and is what it was intended for. Some say that the tone is better when it is bypassed though. Just try it out for yourself and see what you like. The tone differences will be minimal.

 

[tunedown]

I turn my effects loop on (nothing in the loop) and run the Level at about 50%.

I found, the first time I did this, that it really "tightened everything up". I don't recall whether it effected my tone or not...
I like the sound I'm getting now, however, I haven't gone back to the old way in a while.

(I play hi-gain and loud, but not necessarily "metal")