Need help setting up your studio? Check out these free resources I've created for you... Recording Studio Checklist: audiouniversityonline.com/free-home-studio-checklist/ Speaker Placement Guide: audiouniversityonline.com/speaker-placement-guide/
Dude where have you been hiding in my youtube algorithm?? I needed this channel 5 years ago! Better late than never tho, thank you for this wonderful content. Also nice choice of sample pre-amp, I got a pair of those 710's sitting right next to me rn.
This is brilliant - thank you. I’ve been guesstimating this stuff for years, and been looking for an online resource to relearn everything from the ground up… your channel looks like it might be it - thank you again!
As with all your videos a simple and clear explanation of something that I've never fully understood when looking at the connections on my equipment. Now I can easily see how to use my utilize my equipment chain more effectively.
This is super interesting and detailed, and crazy how it's all in less than 3 minutes of a video. Anyways, after watching, I really find it fascinating that a microphone picks up sound, translates it through electrical wiring, or even across the internet, through someone or somewhere else's wires, and re-translates those electrical signals precisely through headphones. Like, I think it's severely overlooked on how impressive that process works and on top of that, a lot of times it's nearly instant signal transfers/translations.
Excellent video! Straight to the point, and very informative one! You just won a new subscriber! I have a question, Should I treat a headphone output as a mic-level or as a line-level?
A headphone output is capable of putting out a higher voltage than line level. Headphone outputs are also variable (adjustable) in most cases, so the voltage ranges depending on the setting. If you are sending a headphone output to an input, set the input to line level and be sure not to set the headphone output too high (avoid distortion). I hope this helps!
@@AudioUniversity I had the same question. I might suggest pinning the answer to this question to a top comment or something for future people wondering the same. I was lucky this was one of the most recent comments so I found it easy.
Thanks for the suggestion @AwesomeJimJam! This video has been received well, so maybe a part two can be made! What sort of detail would you like to see?
@@AudioUniversity i think covering dbv vs dbu could be helpful, as well as addressing the dangers of using the wrong voltage level/wrong signals in the wrong places. could also expand the discussion out to talking about an entire live sound setup, too. completely aside from this, i would love to see a video on how an analog mixing console works, and how it connects to a DAW. i figure you might've covered some of these topics in your interview videos, but i prefer watching videos like these, that are really straightforward (and informative). cheers! and worth the subscribe, too - i'm gonna jump into the rest of your videos when i get the chance!
good viideo ---- I might suggest another video to address the amount of amplification at each step ------ eg - a dynamic mic signal needs to be amplified about 60 db, which is 1000 times, to get it to line level.
My guitar connected to DI box which then goes toy interface ...but i get more audible signal when i press instrument button on my interface though m sending line level balanced signal frm di box ..when i press line level this signal volume drops ...hows it possible as as per ur explanation instrument level is weaker than line level ...pls help ..🎉🎉
Sub-Mixer Out at Line Level into Main-Mixer LINE Input using XLR-F to ¼" TRS cable x2 If you're using typical XLR-F to XLR-M cables, then you'll ended up connecting into the MIC Input of the Main-Mixer. In this case, you'll need to Engage the PAD switch to attenuates the Strong Line Level into a more manageable level to be handled by the mic preamps.
In other of your videos you mention that certain mixers allow you to connect a mic level or a line level input to the mixer. I understand that. But, what is an example of a line level input that I may be able to connect into a mixer. With this video I did understand that line is not the same as instrument level (I use to confuse them).
Good question. Line level sources could include sequencers, CD players, or even outboard signal processors (such as a rack-mounted compressor). These are just a few examples.
Hi Kyle, Im an amateur DJ. My console has both XLR & RCA main outputs, however my powered loudspeakers (Aiwa AW915 PRO) only have XLR Mic In or RCA Line In available . Would you agree to use a microphone attenuator to connect the console to the speakers' XLR Mic In when running long distances between both devices? Any other ideas would be highly appreciated. Thanks!
confused... So does my passive Fender Jazz bass put out mic or instrument level? Also, the XLR output on the amp I have, does that put out mic or line?
so what if I'm recording a loud exhaust coming into a condesor mic but the mic level is amplifying to much so my audio gets clipped can I than go to line level so its not as amplified?
Thanks for the great video! 😁👍 I'm just beginning down the path of self-proclaimed non-incompetence in noisology and soundometry, both. Anyway, this was particularly educational for me. I had at least 3 "aha! ☝️" moments ... very satisfying. 😏 Did you need cab fare? Or...? Oh, I guess it's your comment section ... ... I'll go. 😋👉
I am using Scarlett Solo USB interface, it has 2 inputs, 1 XLR input and other as TS with a button below named "Inst", if my mic output comes in TS, can I connect it to TS input? Will it give same gain coverage as with XLR input and what should I do with "Inst" On or Off ? Please guide. Thanks
I don’t think the 1/4-inch input will supply enough gain for your microphone. Between “line” and “inst”, you’ll get a greater signal level with “inst”.
Dear Sir, your Demonstration is good!!! I like to know that when we use dynamic mic and condenser mic, the mic level is same or different?? Generally we use phantom power to fire condenser mic. But some time we need to gain condenser mic to the same level where we gain dynamic mic.
All microphones have a unique sensitivity and each will have different gain requirements. “Microphone Level” refers to a range of levels, rather than one particular level.
Hi, Can we use the USB port on a Portable Multiplayer as Auxiliary INPUT? The portable Multiplayer does not have an Auxiliary Input. Example: (Smartphone → 3.5mm output → to USB Male cable) → (USB female of Portable Multiplayer → hear music from his speaker) Converter who do that? Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I have a question that many would like to find the correct answer to, for example. I bought a Crown XLS1002 mainly as a subwoofer amp for a home theater system. But since consumer-level audio is approximately -10 DB. a Pro audio amp would never work properly without increasing the Preout from the receiver to the Crown. many people buy a Matchbox. which for most users is nothing more than a Preamp. and converts an unbalanced signal to a balanced signal while increasing the output level. from what I read. a Balanced signal is usually used on LONG cable runs. so the question is should you just use a preamp between the receiver to the Crown amp? or. do you really need a converter box? such as art Cleanbox Pro or the Rolls MB 15. ? Thanks,
@@AudioUniversity I watched it. but it still did not answer my question. people who did buy the Matchbox. are complaining about noise that didn't exist before. so maybe just maybe. Not using a matchbox and instead simply buying a preamp without a balanced connection. would that be a better solution? (at least for home theater ) without having a balanced connection. since a balanced connection is more suitable for long wire runs to cancel out unwanted noise. I will be honest. I'm kind of sorry I bought the Crown amp.
Is there a difference between mic level from a condenser and a dynamic microphone? And is there a difference between intrument and mic level? I mean they are both realy weak and must be amplified. Sounds like the same to me.
All mics will output a different level based on the source level and microphone sensitivity. To better understand instrument vs mic level, check out this video: ruclips.net/video/_xybjiuD9K0/видео.html
I have a Gigbar Move light bar that has a mic built in that allows the unit to be put in sound mode and flashes to the low frequencies the mic picks up. The issue is that the sensitivity has to be around 90% at low volume but when I play loud, I have to turn it down to 10%. Would it work better if I was to remove the mic and install a jack and connect to the line level output on my mixer (RCA) and let it get a direct signal for consistency?
On the Mixerboard only say MIC under the input jack. I know that an preamp is build in but can i also plug an instrument into that or should i use a dedicated preamp ? cos there is not a single input that say instrument.
@@AudioUniversity Thank you very much. that helped me a lot. I really enjoy your contend. As a noob and amateur it is very hard to understand all that stuff, but you explained like it is the easiest thing to understandt. Keep your content going. I very appreciate it.
On a preamp with a MIC / LINE switch, would 20 dB of attenuation be a typical difference between the two? In other words, with the switch in LINE mode, wouldn't minus 20 dB be more compatible with a signal coming from a guitar or keyboard, than it would be if the switch were set to MIC? The Behringer MIC100 microphone preamp has a 20 dB pad, but not a separate LINE input, nor does it have a MIC / LINE switch. I'm thinking this was the purpose of the 20 dB pad.
@@AudioUniversity hmm, after checking your content, i think it would be helpful when you share us your Live sound Experiences, like set up Line /J -Arrays in a stadion, church, concert hall and so on. Delay Calculation, or some pratical scenarios or settings
The audio signal is AC. The voltage varies depending on the phone and the level you’re playing the music. The output of your phone is powerful enough to power headphones, so it is probably hotter than the line level standard (+4 dBu).
Im only familiar with the voltage standards for professional and consumer line level. You can learn about these in this video: ruclips.net/video/Po3nvEs4LLY/видео.html
And now I still don't know how high or low the mentioned levels are and what the input and output impedances are! So, rather useless video. A bit disappointed..... 🤕
I am using Scarlett Solo USB interface, it has 2 inputs, 1 XLR input and other as TS with a button below named "Inst", if my mic output comes in TS, can I connect it to TS input? Will it give same gain coverage as with XLR input and what should I do with "Inst" On or Off ? Please guide. Thanks
![If you can't hear this then you're not an audiophile [See description for link to followup video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/48PxwspDvrE/mqdefault.jpg)
Need help setting up your studio? Check out these free resources I've created for you...
Recording Studio Checklist: audiouniversityonline.com/free-home-studio-checklist/
Speaker Placement Guide: audiouniversityonline.com/speaker-placement-guide/
Dude where have you been hiding in my youtube algorithm?? I needed this channel 5 years ago! Better late than never tho, thank you for this wonderful content. Also nice choice of sample pre-amp, I got a pair of those 710's sitting right next to me rn.
This is brilliant - thank you. I’ve been guesstimating this stuff for years, and been looking for an online resource to relearn everything from the ground up… your channel looks like it might be it - thank you again!
As with all your videos a simple and clear explanation of something that I've never fully understood when looking at the connections on my equipment. Now I can easily see how to use my utilize my equipment chain more effectively.
one of the finest no crap video like just pure concepts like the best
This is super interesting and detailed, and crazy how it's all in less than 3 minutes of a video. Anyways, after watching, I really find it fascinating that a microphone picks up sound, translates it through electrical wiring, or even across the internet, through someone or somewhere else's wires, and re-translates those electrical signals precisely through headphones. Like, I think it's severely overlooked on how impressive that process works and on top of that, a lot of times it's nearly instant signal transfers/translations.
One of the best & To the point Channel to learn basic of audio engineering.
Love from India❣️
Thanks! I appreciate your support, Abbinante Prajapati! Please share Audio University with others to help the channel grow!
@@AudioUniversity I will sir. It will be pleasure ❣️
Short, sweet, and to the point. Thank you!
This is the most essential video on the internet
I'm still amazed how a microphone and a speaker can catch and recreate such specific and huge amounts of nuances in sound
It's truly incredible!
I'm learning so much from you - thank you so much, dude.
Finally after watching your video I got my answer!
Excellent video! Straight to the point, and very informative one! You just won a new subscriber!
I have a question, Should I treat a headphone output as a mic-level or as a line-level?
A headphone output is capable of putting out a higher voltage than line level. Headphone outputs are also variable (adjustable) in most cases, so the voltage ranges depending on the setting. If you are sending a headphone output to an input, set the input to line level and be sure not to set the headphone output too high (avoid distortion). I hope this helps!
@@AudioUniversity I had the same question. I might suggest pinning the answer to this question to a top comment or something for future people wondering the same. I was lucky this was one of the most recent comments so I found it easy.
would love to see a video like this with a bit more detail added/explanations as to why certain levels are used in different situations
Thanks for the suggestion @AwesomeJimJam! This video has been received well, so maybe a part two can be made! What sort of detail would you like to see?
@@AudioUniversity i think covering dbv vs dbu could be helpful, as well as addressing the dangers of using the wrong voltage level/wrong signals in the wrong places. could also expand the discussion out to talking about an entire live sound setup, too.
completely aside from this, i would love to see a video on how an analog mixing console works, and how it connects to a DAW.
i figure you might've covered some of these topics in your interview videos, but i prefer watching videos like these, that are really straightforward (and informative).
cheers! and worth the subscribe, too - i'm gonna jump into the rest of your videos when i get the chance!
Really good ideas! Thanks! I’ll see what I can put together to address these topics!
Thanks for the clear explanation.
Simple explanation. Great job
Thank you!
Actual dB level differences would be helpful.
good viideo ---- I might suggest another video to address the amount of amplification at each step ------ eg - a dynamic mic signal needs to be amplified about 60 db, which is 1000 times, to get it to line level.
Not what I was looking for but I still learned something haha
Glad to hear that! What were you actually looking for?
great idea. really great. Thank you.
Thanks, Terry Maple!
My guitar connected to DI box which then goes toy interface ...but i get more audible signal when i press instrument button on my interface though m sending line level balanced signal frm di box ..when i press line level this signal volume drops ...hows it possible as as per ur explanation instrument level is weaker than line level ...pls help ..🎉🎉
When connecting two mixers, should one use line inputs or mic inputs?
Sub-Mixer Out at Line Level into Main-Mixer LINE Input using XLR-F to ¼" TRS cable x2
If you're using typical XLR-F to XLR-M cables, then you'll ended up connecting into the MIC Input of the Main-Mixer.
In this case, you'll need to Engage the PAD switch to attenuates the Strong Line Level into a more manageable level to be handled by the mic preamps.
Great video! Thanks :)
Thanks for watching, Luke!
Well that's easy to remember -- SLIM
Excellent as usual bro.
Thanks, @Sandhu Inc! Much appreciated!
Thank you.
In other of your videos you mention that certain mixers allow you to connect a mic level or a line level input to the mixer. I understand that. But, what is an example of a line level input that I may be able to connect into a mixer.
With this video I did understand that line is not the same as instrument level (I use to confuse them).
Good question. Line level sources could include sequencers, CD players, or even outboard signal processors (such as a rack-mounted compressor). These are just a few examples.
Hi Kyle, Im an amateur DJ. My console has both XLR & RCA main outputs, however my powered loudspeakers (Aiwa AW915 PRO) only have XLR Mic In or RCA Line In available . Would you agree to use a microphone attenuator to connect the console to the speakers' XLR Mic In when running long distances between both devices? Any other ideas would be highly appreciated. Thanks!
Thanks man.
So what are the typical/max signal voltages for each level?
confused... So does my passive Fender Jazz bass put out mic or instrument level? Also, the XLR output on the amp I have, does that put out mic or line?
The bass guitar outputs instrument level. The XLR output might put out mic or line level.
Thanks!
so what if I'm recording a loud exhaust coming into a condesor mic but the mic level is amplifying to much so my audio gets clipped can I than go to line level so its not as amplified?
You might be overloading the mic (check the max SPL specification for the mic). If not, you can use a pad before the mic input.
Thanks 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the great video! 😁👍
I'm just beginning down the path of self-proclaimed non-incompetence in noisology and soundometry, both. Anyway, this was particularly educational for me. I had at least 3 "aha! ☝️" moments ... very satisfying. 😏
Did you need cab fare? Or...?
Oh, I guess it's your comment section ...
... I'll go. 😋👉
Thanks! Very helpful. For PC Audio interface today, the output is line level? Can plug direct to mixer? Or still need a DI in between? Thanks
if we use powered speaker, we can directly use line level signal right?
Yes. And sometimes a powered speaker can take mic level also.
I am using Scarlett Solo USB interface, it has 2 inputs, 1 XLR input and other as TS with a button below named "Inst", if my mic output comes in TS, can I connect it to TS input? Will it give same gain coverage as with XLR input and what should I do with "Inst" On or Off ? Please guide. Thanks
I don’t think the 1/4-inch input will supply enough gain for your microphone. Between “line” and “inst”, you’ll get a greater signal level with “inst”.
@@AudioUniversity Thanks Kyle. Now I know it will not provide enough gain.
Dear Sir, your Demonstration is good!!! I like to know that when we use dynamic mic and condenser mic, the mic level is same or different??
Generally we use phantom power to fire condenser mic. But some time we need to gain condenser mic to the same level where we gain dynamic mic.
All microphones have a unique sensitivity and each will have different gain requirements. “Microphone Level” refers to a range of levels, rather than one particular level.
@@AudioUniversity Thanks
Hi,
Can we use the USB port on a Portable Multiplayer as Auxiliary INPUT? The portable Multiplayer does not have an Auxiliary Input.
Example:
(Smartphone → 3.5mm output → to USB Male cable) → (USB female of Portable Multiplayer → hear music from his speaker)
Converter who do that?
Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I have a question that many would like to find the correct answer to, for example. I bought a Crown XLS1002 mainly as a subwoofer amp for a home theater system. But since consumer-level audio is approximately -10 DB. a Pro audio amp would never work properly without increasing the Preout from the receiver to the Crown. many people buy a Matchbox. which for most users is nothing more than a Preamp. and converts an unbalanced signal to a balanced signal while increasing the output level. from what I read. a Balanced signal is usually used on LONG cable runs.
so the question is should you just use a preamp between the receiver to the Crown amp? or. do you really need a converter box? such as art Cleanbox Pro or the Rolls MB 15. ? Thanks,
Good question, Sam. Have you watched this video?: ruclips.net/video/Po3nvEs4LLY/видео.html
@@AudioUniversity I watched it. but it still did not answer my question. people who did buy the Matchbox. are complaining about noise that didn't exist before. so maybe just maybe. Not using a matchbox and instead simply buying a preamp without a balanced connection. would that be a better solution? (at least for home theater ) without having a balanced connection. since a balanced connection is more suitable for long wire runs to cancel out unwanted noise.
I will be honest. I'm kind of sorry I bought the Crown amp.
Is there a difference between mic level from a condenser and a dynamic microphone?
And is there a difference between intrument and mic level? I mean they are both realy weak and must be amplified. Sounds like the same to me.
All mics will output a different level based on the source level and microphone sensitivity.
To better understand instrument vs mic level, check out this video: ruclips.net/video/_xybjiuD9K0/видео.html
@@AudioUniversity thanks :)
I have a Gigbar Move light bar that has a mic built in that allows the unit to be put in sound mode and flashes to the low frequencies the mic picks up. The issue is that the sensitivity has to be around 90% at low volume but when I play loud, I have to turn it down to 10%.
Would it work better if I was to remove the mic and install a jack and connect to the line level output on my mixer (RCA) and let it get a direct signal for consistency?
What does a DAC output, also line level?
Hello! Is there any way to convert the speaker output back to a line signal?
There are some transformers and DI boxes that can do this. In my experience, I've used them for recording guitar amplifiers.
On the Mixerboard only say MIC under the input jack. I know that an preamp is build in but can i also plug an instrument into that or should i use a dedicated preamp ? cos there is not a single input that say instrument.
I’d recommend a DI box to connect an instrument to a mic input. Check out this video: ruclips.net/video/_xybjiuD9K0/видео.html
@@AudioUniversity Thank you very much. that helped me a lot. I really enjoy your contend. As a noob and amateur it is very hard to understand all that stuff, but you explained like it is the easiest thing to understandt. Keep your content going. I very appreciate it.
Glad to help!
On a preamp with a MIC / LINE switch, would 20 dB of attenuation be a typical difference between the two? In other words, with the switch in LINE mode, wouldn't minus 20 dB be more compatible with a signal coming from a guitar or keyboard, than it would be if the switch were set to MIC? The Behringer MIC100 microphone preamp has a 20 dB pad, but not a separate LINE input, nor does it have a MIC / LINE switch. I'm thinking this was the purpose of the 20 dB pad.
Yes. A MIC/LINE switch is essentially a pad. The best guideline is to choose the setting that gives you the best input meter level for the source.
@@AudioUniversity Thank you for your reply. That's very helpful to know.
Can’t you skip the pre-amp and connect the mic to the speaker because the speaker has an amp?
You forgot to mention the output level synthesizers and similar instruments.
well done
Thank you! I appreciate you watching and commenting! Are there any future videos that would be helpful?
@@AudioUniversity hmm, after checking your content, i think it would be helpful when you share us your Live sound Experiences, like set up Line /J -Arrays in a stadion, church, concert hall and so on. Delay Calculation, or some pratical scenarios or settings
@@AudioUniversity maybe grounding concept, ground lift and so on :)
Good ideas! I’ll see what I can put together for these! Thank you!
so are u saying that we cant make music with a decent interface and active speakers ?
Awesome video as always! You're my new favourite :)
Thanks! Please share with others who would enjoy the videos!
Is the phone headset mic output voltage AC or DC and at what value?
The audio signal is AC. The voltage varies depending on the phone and the level you’re playing the music. The output of your phone is powerful enough to power headphones, so it is probably hotter than the line level standard (+4 dBu).
@@AudioUniversity Thanks.
Are synths line level or are they on instrument level aswell?
Typically Line Level.
in what way this 4 levels are related with the 4dbu?
Check out this video, Sebastian: ruclips.net/video/Po3nvEs4LLY/видео.html
@@AudioUniversity yhank you very much.
it will be great if you tell Voltage in Each level !
Im only familiar with the voltage standards for professional and consumer line level. You can learn about these in this video: ruclips.net/video/Po3nvEs4LLY/видео.html
🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌
Dine
And now I still don't know how high or low the mentioned levels are and what the input and output impedances are!
So, rather useless video.
A bit disappointed..... 🤕
Sorry you didn't find what you were looking for, Joop. You might find this video helpful: ruclips.net/video/Po3nvEs4LLY/видео.html
I am using Scarlett Solo USB interface, it has 2 inputs, 1 XLR input and other as TS with a button below named "Inst", if my mic output comes in TS, can I connect it to TS input? Will it give same gain coverage as with XLR input and what should I do with "Inst" On or Off ? Please guide. Thanks