use pre amp for what signals?

  • Thread starter Thread starter michael.butler
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michael.butler

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Here's another newbie question.

I record w/ a roland 2480. I have a dbx 386 pre amp. Currently I only use the pre for vox inputs and acoustic instruments. I usually send drum and guitar amp signals directly to the recorder. Should I instead send all signals through the pre instead? And if so, how will I handle recording several sources at once when the pre ony has two inputs?

thanks
michael
 
See how you like the results ..generaly I only send one mic signal thru each input{two mic inputs/ two signals}. via a patchbay I've sent{keyboards} multiple DIs thru two channel pre .But that was because my recorders pres were horrible..If you are recording direct things like synths/drum machines{line level inst.} ect. try going right into your recorder's "tape"ins bypassing any preamps this will give you a very clean sound..Check your manual..Sometimes you just want good clean signal and keep your noise floor as low as possible..Experiment have fun ! Good luck

Don
 
Michael,
I have a 1680 which I use with a dbx386 and I too, love the 386. I tend also to run all vox and acoustic instruments through there, but not the synth sounds (which generate evertything else besides guitar, bass and vox, naturally). Too much of the 386 CAN be a good thing, and with the 386 on all your tracks it can sound a bit muddy (IMHO).

However, if I was selective on my use of the preamp while recording, I find running the entire final mix into, then out of, the 386 adds a great *sparkle* to a finished mix. It's the icing on the cake.
 
Thanks for the repies.

Octoruss-- I believe you're right about being careful not to overuse the pre to avoid the mud. I'll also give the final mix tip a try. So, w/ the exception of vox and acoust., do you run other sources straight in?

michael
 
I do. That line input comes in very handy. I have my mic cables going into the XLR connections in the back, but for electric guitar and bass I always go straight into the dbx. So mics, el. guitar and bass all go in. Everything else (keys, drum machine, synth sounds) all go direct.
 
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