Record levels

[MichaelF]

Ok, here's a question from a confused newbie. I'm using n-Track with an OmniStudio/Delta66. When using the Line ins 3,4 on the OmniStudio, where/how can I adjust recording levels? Or, are they "fixed" because they're at line level? I have set the "record level" for Line ins 3,4 on the Delta Control Panel. Is that all I need to do?

[Slackmaster2K]

You should be adjusting recording levels before they even touch the Delta. Using the Delta or n-Track to adjust recording levels is not advisable - leave those levels at 100%.

The reason is that if your signal is coming in too hot, lowering the recording level does NOT prevent clipping, it just lowers the level of the clipped signal. Also, this level adjustment is digital, and you want to be doing as little digital gain reduction as possible (you'll be doing enough mucking around during mixing anyhow).

The best way to control levels is at the source. If your mic level is too hot, then turn down the preamp. If the preamp signal is still too hot (in the case of drums or super loud guitars, perhaps), then you'll need a pad somewhere. etc etc

Slackmaster 2000