x6 Line Level Inputs vs the Mic Inputs

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When recording an analog synth into one of the line level inputs of an x6, is there a downside sonically or in any way to change the line input from +4 to -10db so as to get a higher input level? The two mic/HiZ inputs are used up with more... essential sort of instrumentation and this synth needs some help getting high enough signal through into the Apollo from its output, and I don't currently have an external hardware pre accessible. Hoping just switching the line level input from +4 to -10 is the quick and easy fix and there's no downside. Is there? Is this one of those things like using a pad button that, as is said to be the case, should be avoided if you can because it has a somewhat detrimental effect to the recorded material?

 

[Matt Hepworth]

When recording an analog synth into one of the line level inputs of an x6, is there a downside sonically or in any way to change the line input from +4 to -10db so as to get a higher input level? The two mic/HiZ inputs are used up with more... essential sort of instrumentation and this synth needs some help getting high enough signal through into the Apollo from its output, and I don't currently have an external hardware pre accessible. Hoping just switching the line level input from +4 to -10 is the quick and easy fix and there's no downside. Is there? Is this one of those things like using a pad button that, as is said to be the case, should be avoided if you can because it has a somewhat detrimental effect to the recorded material?

If you need a bit more gain just use a plugin like the Precision Channel Strip. Digital gain with no coloration.

 

[Flike]

If you need a bit more gain just use a plugin like the Precision Channel Strip. Digital gain with no coloration.

Thanks for the reply - so you're saying don't switch from +4 to -10 on the line level analog 3 input of the x6, and instead put an instance of the Precision Channel Strip in an insert slot, boost it's output level as needed, and engage REC instead of MON so that transparent digital gain gets my record level boosted to where it needs to be, between -18 and -12 or so? For my own edification - is there a downside in quality to just simply switching from +4 to -10? Thanks!

 

[Matt Hepworth]

Thanks for the reply - so you're saying don't switch from +4 to -10 on the line level analog 3 input of the x6, and instead put an instance of the Precision Channel Strip in an insert slot, boost it's output level as needed, and engage REC instead of MON so that transparent digital gain gets my record level boosted to where it needs to be, between -18 and -12 or so? For my own edification - is there a downside in quality to just simply switching from +4 to -10? Thanks!

No, but it's just that it's a fixed gain change, rather than variable. Traditionally, the -10dBv was for unbalanced consumer equipment, but it's perfectly fine to use.

 

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No, but it's just that it's a fixed gain change, rather than variable. Traditionally, the -10dBv was for unbalanced consumer equipment, but it's perfectly fine to use.

Thank you so much for taking the time, that's very helpful and appreciated