Aardvark Q10 & Sonar 3 Clipping Issue

[KNOBLET]

Hello, I am using an Aardvark Q10 soundcard with a Gateway PC that runs on Windows XP Home Edition with 2.60 Ghz Pentium 4 processor, and .98 GB RAM. I am using Sonar 3 Producer Edition to record. When I try to record a full drum set with two MXL overhead condensors and a Shure SM57 on snare, Beta52 on kick, and PG56's on toms, It clips A LOT even when all inputs are set to consumer (-10db) and when all inputs are put on L in the Aardvark manager. What can I do achieve a quiter recording using the balanced proffesional and m1 settings or anyway...because I am getting frustrated and want to record some stuff. Anyway, when I record a source that's not too loud, it's fine, but the drums are too much. Help please. I am used to Pro Tools.

 

[patsplat]

Hi...The only thing I can think of is your not setting the input levels with the trim knobs in the control panel.If this is the case...click on the trim knob right below the L on each channel of the Q10 control panel > a square should appear around it>set your inputs so they are not clipping while playing using the left and right arrow keys on your keyboard.I usually set mine on m1 and tweak from there.This should stop the clipping problems if you've set them right.If using regular XLR mic cables,set them all to +4dBu(professional) in the output levels section.

and .98 GB RAM

???...if that's meant to be 96MB,(maybe have another look...start>control panel>perf. and main.>system>general)I'd look into getting some more RAM(at least 512MB...RAM's cheap these days!)

hope that helps some...

 

[AGCurry]

I have this issue with drum overheads (Oktava MK012 small-diaphragm condensors). I have to insert the 10 db pad thingy on the mics to get the level right. Other than that, you just have to play with the trim adjustment, as patsplat says.