Captains Log

[Dr.Cool]

I have a question regarding the use of a mixer when recording with my equipment. I have a fostex mr8-hd and mic100 preamp. Should I run the signal through a mixer before sending it to my recorder? What are the benefits to this? Just curious.

 

[cpl_crud]

If you don't have to put your signal through something, then it's probably best that you don't.
Every bit of kit has its own inherant noise, and will effect your signal. Some of these effects can be desirable, however in the case of low-end gear chances are it's not going to be...

 

[Farview]

The mr8 has a built in mixer and preamps, you can just plug your mic into it.

Unfortunately, with these types of units, using an external preamp is a waste of time because you can't get around the internal one.

 

[Dr.Cool]

Very good. Thats what I thought. I had heard a few people commenting on the use of a mixer with the mr8 and I was curious as to the reasoning.

 

[BrentDomann]

Most people (myself included) use a mixer with the MR-8. That's because the preamps a) don't have phantom power and b) are really weak. The MR-8HD, however, has phantom power--and I hear the preamps are a lot hotter on them as well.

The rumors you've heard probably apply to the original MR-8 rather than the HD version. I think those issues have been resolved in the newer machine. My guess is that that is the reasoning you seek.

 

[Dr.Cool]

Gracias senior