where to raise audio levels
- Thread starter Lee Saxon
- Start date
The MixPre has line-level out only, balanced +4dB via the XLRs and unbalanced -10dB via the 1/8" TRS "tape" out. The DR100 has line-level in via a 1/8" TRS input. So make sure you're connecting the MixPre to the DR100 with a short 1/8" TRS jumper. Turn on the MixPre's 1kHz tone, which should meter right at 0dB. Then set the input level on the DR100 so that the meters on the recorder read -12dB. You are now properly calibrated, and can control record levels straight from the inputs on the MixPre.
Bruce Watson
Veteran
That's what I thought too.
Noiz2
Sound Ninja
True but near impossible to determine on most budget recorders and the MixPre.
Calibration in the analog world is pretty flexible.
Personally I use the tone on the MixPre to calibrate my recorder at about -20 dB. With the MixPre's limiters in their most open position this gives me a "clip proof" connection between the MixPre and my recorder. I say "about" because it's just as both meters -20 block just light up, I actually put a mark at the right spot.
Now if I'm not worried about sudden peaks and am recording very quiet sounds I will turn up the recorder gain.
On the PMD 671 -20 off the MixPre is about 1/3 of the way on the input. As a general rule around 75% is "unity" gain.
Usually at something over 75% you will hear more noise, try to stay under that.
So OP, I would practice screaming into the mic and finding out where the limiters kick in (assuming you turned them on). Idealy you want the limiters to keep the peaks at -3 or below on the recorder. Once you find that, switch on the tone from the MixPre and note where your meters are on the recorder. Write that down because that is your clip proof setting.
If you find you have to get the MixPre up over the 75% point to get decent levels, you are probably not close enough, get closer or nudge up the gain on the recorder. BUT once you are over your "clip proof" point a screaming actor will blow the take so pay attention.