AT 4033 ("PAD" switch question)

[cjacek]

Hi,

On the AT 4033 there's a "PAD" switch (- 10db and 0db). The mic works fine when set to - 10db but when I switch it to 0db I notice a higher sensitivity and when I sing louder, the mic itself clips Is this normal and what is the "PAD" switch for ? Thank you.

Dan

 

[bvaleria]

The PAD switch is there to drop levels to the mic pre in the event of high SPL (sound pressure level) sources. This DOESN'T mean you can't physically damage the mic's capsule by exceeding it's SPL capacity using the switch.

Bruce

 

[kristian]

another point is when you have the pad engaged the signal moving to the mic pre amp is lower, when its not engaged the mic might not be clipping but the actual pre amp you are plugged into. turn the trim down.

 

[cjacek]

Oh ... ok, I get it. So in the case of "clipping" I was actually sending too much signal to the tube mp ! Makes sense. So now I know to turn the "input" levels of the tube mp down. But in the case of the mic ... what setting should I use ? Do I switch it to 0db or -10db ? Or does it make a difference ? Thanks again to both of you.