Signal chain, pitch correction and impedance

[Graymalkin2001]

I'm a multi-instrumentalist, but as a vocalist, I need help. Thus, the equipment in my chain. As currently used, I come very close to sounding like a singer; actually fits my songwriting style fairly well.

I use a Rode NT1000 into an ART TPS-II hybrid tube preamp, to an Alesis DEQ230 equalizer, to a BBE MaxCom compressor with SonicMaximizer, then on to the Tascam 2488 NEO. It works well for me.

Here's the problem: I wanted to do something to discreetly correct pitch, so I broke out my TC Helicon VoiceLive. I only intend to use the VoiceLive for a touch of pitch correction, and perhaps thickening on a song or two.

I'm thinking about using the pitch correction directly after the mic, and before the preamp. Since the Rode has an output impedance of 100 Hz, I typically adjust the input impedance of the preamp to about 1000 Hz, to good effect. The problem is, the VoiceLive output impedance in 40 Hz. So, to use it directly before the preamp, should I have the preamp's impedance set to around 400 Hz?

And, is it best to use the pitch correction before the preamp, or would it be best elsewhere in the chain?

Much obliged for any and all suggestions!

 

[Mo Facta]

I'm thinking about using the pitch correction directly after the mic, and before the preamp. Since the Rode has an output impedance of 100 Hz, I typically adjust the input impedance of the preamp to about 1000 Hz, to good effect. The problem is, the VoiceLive output impedance in 40 Hz. So, to use it directly before the preamp, should I have the preamp's impedance set to around 400 Hz?

Dude, you've got several things wrong here.

Firstly, impedance is measured in OHMS, not Hz. The reason why the ART preamp has got a variable impedance circuit is to fine tune the preamp to accept microphones of varying impedances. Microphones are usually low impedance devices that vary in their ratings but suffice it to say that a standard microphone input is generally 600 Ohms. Being able to fine tune a preamp's impedance means that you can more accurately match the microphones' output impedance to it and thus achieve maximum tone. Keep in mind the best preamps money can buy do not have variable impedance so decide for yourself whether it's a gimmick or not. How did you come to the conclusion that the output impedance of the Voicelive is 40 Ohms? It should not be that low.

Secondly, the Voicelive itself has a built-in microphone preamp. If you're going to use that before the recorder, it's best to get a good level there first and then apply the pitch correction. I would make a brand new patch that JUST has preamp gain and pitch correction. Then, once you have the desired effect, the output of the TC will go into an input of the recorder. The Voicelive only has a microphone pass-thru so you would need to go into a LINE IN on your recorder from the LINE OUT of the Voicelive if you want to retain the pitch correction (I think, as I don't have experience with one personally). In fact ALL inputs and outputs should be connected to LINE INPUTS AND OUTPUTS to retain proper gain structure and impedance. In fact, you could omit the ART altogether in this setup but if you use it, make sure to go into it's LINE input. So, this would be your signal chain:

Microphone -> Voicelive [LINE OUT] -> [LINE IN] Alesis EQ [LINE OUT] -> [LINE IN] BBE MaxCom [LINE OUT] -> [LINE IN] TASCAM 2488

You would obviously insert the ART preamp if you want to use it to add some tube tone but remember to USE THE LINE INPUTS AND OUTPUTS.

Hope that helps.

Cheers

 

[Graymalkin2001]

Mo, you are obviously correct in the Hz/Ohms department. That's what I get for posting late at night!
At any rate, the Rode mic is rated at 100 Ohm output, and if I recall correctly, the VoiceLive lists 40 Ohm output impedance. Yes, the VoiceLive has it's own preamp (and phantom power will be provided if VoiceLive is first device in the chain, obviously), hence the impedance matching question.
Many thanks for taking the time to reply! You advice is most appreciated!