Preamp VS Power amp volume settings

[zamp]

Sorry to ask this question again, but i could not find anything on the subject. I own a Stuidio Pre and a 50/50 and play through two 1 X 12 Thieles. I am usually playing fusion or alt-country (strange combo, i know). Since i want a balanced clean and overdriven sound when selecting one or the other, what is the correct settings for the preamp/power amp volumes? Should I run the preamp volume higher than the power amp or the other way around? Or, should i just set them both to the same values?

 

[JT_Marshmallow]

Ahh yes with rack setups there are so many volume and level knobs in the signal chain it can be overwhelming. On my rack I have 3 levels on the Studio Pre (Master, Lead Master, Output Level), then there's two level knobs on my Intellifex (Input Level, Output Level), then one level control on my power amp; totalling 6 level controls.

I actually DIME the volume on my power amp and then control the overall volume with the Intellifex. (If you don't have an effects unit, probably use Output Level or Lead Master on the preamp.) This way you have the power amp "opened up" and will be getting a good deal of natural warmth and juicy mids from the power section. This does not mean that the rig will always be loud. It gets down to bedroom levels once you turn the level down on the preamp. Also, doing it this way does not clip the clean channel. It stays squeaky clean and is warm and thick as all hell.