Mics and cables

[DMB35]

1st, what is the difference between Lo Z and Hi Z cables?

2nd, I have a Shure 57 and a Studio Projects B-1, Im getting the omni I/O studio......Does anyone know what kind of cables I need? (Im a newbie and dont know what the names mean) I have 1 cable for the Shure 57 , the male end is the size of a typical headphone jack, i think its a 1/4? My thing is, do I need to get another one of those for the B-1? I cant figure out what the 2 large outs are for on the front right of the omni studio, are those for another type of cable, and would that be better quality?

Thanks, please help if ya can, Gare

[M.Brane]

Hi-Z = Shielded, 2 conductor cable with either RCA jacks (like the hookups on a stereo system) or 1/4" phone plugs (like a guitar cable).

Lo-Z = Three conductor cable with XLR jacks (fat jack with the pins recessed inside the shell) or
1/4" TRS (tip-ring-sleeve: like a headphone plug).

It's possible to get good quality from either but the Lo-Z is better for long runs (Hi-z is only good for 18') and eliminates the chance of ground-loop "hum".

I think that B-1 needs what is called "phantom power" (unless it has an on-board battery). This is 48v that runs on the Lo-z cable to power the mic's element. If that's the case you'll have to run an XLR type cable with it. It's also a good idea to turn off the phantom power to the mic(s) before swapping cables around.

Hope this helps.

[DMB35]

Yes, I know the Omni studio has phantom power, thats one of the reasons I like it. Im not sure if I can turn it off or not though.
Thanks for the info.

Gare

[TexRoadkill]

Phantom power wont hurt your SM57. Always use XLR - XLR cables for mics for best signal quality.