Input/recording levels

[Axehandle]

I am having some problems with my recording. I play a guitar through a Zoom 505II guitar effects processor that I plug into the line input of my Peavey RQ200 mixer. As per instructions I set the master and channel outputs at 0 and use the line input gain to set outputs at just below peak. I run that into the line input of my sound card and am running cakewalk Home Studio.

the result are recordings that are far too loud resulting in poor sound quality. Is there something obvious I am missing(being a newb) or do I just fiddle with the mixer outputs till I get the desired levels?

I have a Condenser mic but I have read that you should use a Dynamic mic for mic'ing an amp. Can I use my condenser? and if so what is a good base line to start at for location?

[jerberson12]

i did this trick last year ago when i stil use some crap musical gears. plug your guitar into you zoom effect line input. from the output, run it through your soundcard's line/mic input. Try not to use your mixer. Set the volume in your guitar about 80% full. In your system mixer set recording level to about 80-95% (when boost is off) 60-80% when boost is on if your using creative soundcard. try to full your recording level if your using delta 44, or audiophile 2496. when you play on your guitar and the output is loud, try not to lower the volume on your guitar, use your system mixer.Hope that works with you.

[Porter]

It sounds as though you are happy with the sound up to the mixer... what are you doing after that?

Are you plugging into your 'mic in' or 'line in'. There IS a difference. Also, check the level settings on your sound card... try turning them. You may have the levels to 'hot'.

Porter

[Axehandle]

Thanks alot guys. The recording levels of my sound card was the problem. At least the one of them =).