In case anyone else has this problem in the future. I tried some different resistors across the hot tabs on the pots to modify the taper. I started with 220k and worked my way down til I got what I was after. Ended up choosing a 1k ohm. Smooth gradual volume increase from 1-10. I used 1/4 watt resistors they are plenty for this type application, they take up very little room and they are .99 cents for a 6 pack at Radio Shack.
