I think about 2.5/3 on up on the volume you get that pre/power tube combination working together for a fizz free tone. Anything under 2 on the red channel has a bit of hair or fizz and less body to it because its basically all preamp.
Doesn't bother me a bit the difference between bedroom level playing and band level. I know what the amp can do when its time to open up them valves.
I boost mine always which adds some body at lower volumes anyways. I don't care for the amps gain unboosted in stock form or modded by Voodoo which I have. The red channel needs a little body added to it. You will see alot of us DSL guys boost lead 1 and the crunch channel. Just my preference.