I would like to add another "Thank You" for this video. I too have the same set-up from my Scarlett interface into my 286s preamp. After some research, I realized you were absolutely right. But the real truth came after the hook up itself. The line distortion I had been experiencing pre hookup had disappeared immediately. Nothing but clarity beyond this point forward. One word... Amazing. I would never had figured out something so simple would be such a game changer. Please your invaluable work. You are appreciated.
Every interface I've see for the last decade or so has a line in. You'll be fine. just go trs from a balanced line out to the line in on the interface. Thats literally what it was designed for. Converting it to instrument level and then boosting it back to line level is redundant and will introduce more noice into the signal.
My native instruments komplete audio 2 has a line/instrument switch on the front 2 inputs. Pretty simple for me just plug it in with an adapter for the plugs half-inch I think
This is true but I think for many people not experienced in the field they will usually default to using one of the front inputs which usually have their own preamps. You are right though.
Mate, I appreciate that you have good intentions and trying to teach people however you should really clarify that most audio interfaces with one or two inputs (even at the time when you made this video) have line level in. Most interfaces inputs have XLR as Mic in or TRS 1/4 inch as instrument or line in. There is usually a switch that lets you select one or the other.
yeah. i enjoyed the video but a direct boxe isnt needed in a home studio. line is built in. direct box is more for a distance between a pre amp and interface.
The PreSonus Audiobox 96 is still extremely popular and has no line inputs, it's mic or instrument level only. I assume this video was for people like me that are trying to figure out the best way to connect outboard stuff to the PreSonus Audiobox 96.
XLR cables are balanced, the third pin provides the extra ground to keep the signal balanced. The only reason I could see to convert it to a line signal would in case you accidently send a signal that's too hot, but if you don't know how to gain stage from the pre amp to the interface then no amount of gear or signal conversion is going to help you.
I bought a tube pre years ago and never understood why it sounded so noisy and bad, so it's just been collecting dust all this time. I had some direct boxes sitting around, so after watching your video it was just a matter of putting the pieces together. Thanks for the advice!
That is correct, thanks for making this video. I use to connect using TRS to combo connection ( front input ), and couple months ago, i changed it to the back connection, input line. Sound change dramatically, perfect. Line to line level. That is correct. Super thanks
As long as your interface has a line option, you can use that. That's the "PAD" switch in your interface which i think most of the audio interfaces have. Make sure to turn off your interface's volume before plugging your connector and switch to the "PAD" option.
i avoided blowing up my interface thanks, and I love the czech mandolin. Have seen two of those in my life and had my hands on one at one time. They were great mandos.
this is really helpful info that i feel can be easily convoluted on forums and instructional videos. this also applies to stacking preamps of any kind, like if you were someone who recorded analog wanted to use an external pre with a mixing console, the same rule applies for gain staging
Actually, you can go direct in from your external preamp if the interfact has the feature that disables the preamp if you use a TRS connection in the combi jack instead of an XLR
Thanks for this! It's info like this which has just helped me to avoid a critical error. I've just ordered my gear an hour ago. Because my Roland Duo-Capture Ex audio interface surprisingly doesn't have Line In, I'm replacing it with a Steinberg UR242. I'm hooking it up to a Behringer MIC 2200 19 inch 2-channel tube preamp, which I've also just ordered. I'm looking forward to hearing the sound I get from them.
This says the instruction manual of the Roland Duo-Capture Ex : INPUT 1 jack supports high impedance.Do you know anything about this? I have this card and I would like to know if Imput 1 will be used to connect a mic preamp.Thank you
Old vid Most interfaces have front end Hiz and rear combi Jack’s that are typically disengaged when using that front Hiz for guitar, base Ts input or at least front side switches to choose, most useful for in the box emulations guitar rig, bias, amplitube,ect… Better boxes allow you to bypass the on board preamps and hit the converters directly these days it’s pretty common And of course the line ins are fine for outboard preamps running in series (instrument or mic-preamp-interface) or use a patch bay, the Samson S patch plus is nice for the normal, half normal, thru front panel switches, (no more card cart wheels) then you can create patch points (ins and outs) and use any outboard gear you want in any routing config you want Some guys insist on xlr for mics and pres due to phantom power worries I use trs, combi and xlr at different places for different purposes Just don’t energize your 48v until your all connected My neve shelfords channel strips have xlr outs in two db flavors depending on the interface and the levels you want coming in I just send all of them to the patch bay rears along with UA 710s, 1176 or whatever you got and label everything Just below are all of my Apollo interface ins with built in preamp channels and line in clearly labeled And last are the adat spdif expansion ins, again preamp channels, line ins and outs from DB25s are all labeled and assessable from the front So even with a small studio I still have 3 patchbays, 1 xlr, 1 combi and 1 trs outs over ins, there inexpensive, logical and makes your studio look cool I put 1U blank cover over and under each PB for labeling There are only a few rules that are important for keeping your hardware safe for outboard Ventilation usually 1U up and down read the manual Labeling, no brainer, or you would think Clean power with the amps to spare Dust control! Vacuum using hepa, Don’t just brush or blow it around with canned air, where do you think it goes? Good quality cabling, ts,trs,xlr,TT,military, DB25, Ethercon, or whatever.. And never power up your phantom 48v until your all plugged in regardless of the connector, just don’t hot swap, if you don’t power up then you’ll find you can use any 3 conductor connector for phantom power with no shorting it’s a simple hot, neutral, ground just check the manual Because some older gear like my Eventide H3000 has a ground, neutral alteration so I have altered cords for that box In my 60s now and phantom power was around before i was (invented in 1966 by Neumann) and I’ve not fried anything, aaah yet
i had the same problem till yesterday that I bought the cable you advice of.. and now sounds better.. before I be getting vocals too loud ... I connect my Avalon to line 5 .. and now I can use my Avalon much better ...
subscribed because your the only person to answer that question .........how would I run my line 6 pod into my interface same way?.....yes all vague info on this subject on net
This video explains every concept pretty bad. I saw a lot of other videos after this and got familiar with the ideas. I came back and wow it makes sense, but if I didn't have all this information. This video would have mislead me and I would have bought a DI box for no apparent reason and its not just that one thing that is very badly explained, all this could have been very easily avoided, especially when the aim of the video is it to be simple and remove any confusion. The comments here helped a ton, I really appreciate the comments.
Thanks for the video! All this "technical studio stuff" is very hard to get a good grip on if you lack the basic pre-knowledge or experience about it, plus most ppl just wanna get started recording their music, etc... Buying a piece of hardware like an "external pre-amp for vocal, guitar, etc" can put some ppl off I guess… If you don't know how to hook things up on a basic home studio... Like I'd guess many ppl these Days have a computer and an Audio Interface to begin with... And they have a few instruments like guitar, bass, microphone, keyboard... Then the next step is to buy some additional hardware like a pre-amp, a compressor, a reverb/delay unit, etc. Then these "thechnical headaches" usually begins... ;) So much easier to just use plugins, right? Well, it takes some research into different "signal levels", different connectors (jacks/plugs) & different "cable types"... Good thing we have RUclips, google, etc! :) One thing though, I believe a "TRS-cable" can carry either a stereo or a mono signal, while a "TS-cable" only carries a mono signal.
The main thing is to connect from external preamp into a line level input, not instrument or mic combo input, check the specs of your interface. For the price of 2 di boxs its cheaper to get another interface that has line level inputs IMHO.
Good stuff...I have Tascam UH7000 with superb preamps which can serve as a stand alone, output thru my Kopul Humbuster and XLR into my Denon Mixer, with no fear of causing damage ? Mic into the Tascam via a Cloudlifter, this is for voice only live streaming.
Those Presonus tube preamps you're using output an already-line-level signal. To bypass the preamps in the interface (usually, with most interfaces) using a balanced TRS connector into the 1/4" input in the center of the connector on the interface USUALLY bypasses the preamp. Just wanted to correct you.
I was wondering the same thing here. On your first correction, if I do NOT turn on the INST button on the PreSonus Tube Pre v2 then I'm assuming it's line level already. The v2 have a INST button that I think makes it instrument level.
i was wondering this. I'm planning on buying a RNP and a behringer interface which had line/instrrument options. doest that remove the need for a DI as well??
So if I have the tube pre v2 and AudioBox do I just go xlr from mic to pre amp and then xlr from pre amp to interface? Or do I still have to use the 1/4 inch cable?
@@kalvinwilson6587 yo can you elaborate on that?. Are you saying microphone into your preamp. Then preamp into a mixer, then mixer into audio interface?
Some interfaces with Neutrik inputs on the front such as Focusrite Scarlet 2i2s have a line/instrument switch so you can change between those levels when you plug a 1/4" TRS cable into it from your external preamp. All you have to do then is turn the gain on the interface all the way down.
Why can't you just connect your preamp into the preamp on the interface but set the input to "line" instead of "instrument"? Won't that do the same thing as a DI box?
That would be a proper connection since it's line output to line input. That's not exactly what a DI box does though. A DI box will enable you to convert an instrument level or a line level signal down to mic level, so you can connect it to the mic input of a preamp.
If you do more research you find that getting a good mic prevents you from needing a DI box because it will properly do what the DI box does. Especially considering that DI boxes were built specifically for instruments that were unbalanced and NOT for Mics. So what you really should be saying is if you purchase a mic that provides unbalanced signals (whether through the mic or cables, which im sure someone can clarify) then maybe you should get a DI box or better yet, purchase a mic and mic cables that are balanced to get rid of an extra point of failure.
In this video he's not suggesting to connect a mic into a DI box. As far as I'm concerned, he's saying you should connect the line output of a preamp to the DI box which is a correct thing to do if you want to convert the signal back to mic level. That would enable you to connect it to the mic input of the interface (if it doesn't have a line input to make a straight connection without the need for a DI box).
I like the video! Well-done and informative. I have a question for you though. I have a Tascam us-16x08. It subs as a mic preamp when not plugged into my 'puter. It has 8 xlr ins on the front with 8 -1/4 outs and 8 -1/4 ins on the back. I've ran my XLR snake lines through the back of a pass-through in my effects rack, connected to the XLR ins on the front of my interface, out the 1/4 outs on the back of the interface, up to the mic inputs on my Xenyx x2442usb mixer and I get no sound! Have all gains and levels turned up enough to be able to hear. Nothing! Just poking around for others answers. Oh and all my cables are balanced.
Am right after the DirectBox mention and am wondering if this applies to Focusrite too, as their interfaces have a switch for mic/line on their inputs. Many thanks in advance if anybody knows this ( :
Thanks this helps alot i was connecting my preamp to the audio interface with xlr cables im an idiot my interface has line imputs on the back with trs entrances
Excellent video! If I use guitar into a preamp should I just run straight into the preamp ? I have a focusrite 18i20 - would I need to use a DI in this case? I have one. I want to record direct because I will reamp
The device in your example has no line inputs, but in most devices they do. You would flip a switch i in the case of the Focusrite, or you use the phone input, instead of XLR for line input on the Steinberg.
That's great, Thank you! This makes sense. Would not having a DI box make your sound still come through the amp speakers? Let me explain... I have a Fishman Loudbox Mini. I ran an XLR cable from the XLR DI output into my mixing board then into my interface. I got the sound through the headphones just fine.. BUT.. I ALSO got it from the amp speaker. What's up with that? I wanted to record line out and not have any sound coming from the Fishman speaker. Thank you.
I use DI box for one reason only. I like to hear my amp in the room while tracking the DI. If i jam with friends while recording guitars n drums it’s always ready to record. Sometimes if it’s early in the morning i just use the amp sim. I never have to pick between plugging into an interface or my pedal board. I just plug into my pedal board which has my DI box on it and i’m ready to go. You are correct you don’t need one but’s nice to have options.
Thanks for this. I have a 6i6, was thinking about going to MOTU, but never really thought about even connecting another pre-amp to it considering the scarlett has pre-amps already. Just never really thought about it. I'm thinking about getting a UA LA610 for it :)
I have a 6i6 and a UA LA 610 MK2 and I have mine running through preamp 1 on my 6i6 but I am running the preamp volume on my 6i6 all the way down to zero and am not having any issues. I am using an xlr out of my LA-610 to TRS 1/4in input in the 6i6.
Whether you use TRS or XLR does not matter per se. The only difference is the plug and connector. The decisive factor is the signal level. If your preamp outputs a line level signal via XLR, you can use XLR line out on TRS line in. If the XLR output is Miclevel only, the signal will most likely be too weak for the TRS line in. In this case use TRS to TRS. Just try it out.
If your interface has selectable combination mic/line inputs, you can plug in directly to the interface and select the line level...no need for the DI box.
Thats fine, just have your interface preamps all the way off! You can also go 1/4'' balanced in if you have combo jacks on your interface and it might bypass the preamp all together but not always. You do not need a DI, all a DI does is change an instrument level and outputs a mic or line(on some) level signal but your outboard preamp is changing the mic to line level and your interface is made to accept line level anyway so its fine to go line in to an interface! sorry, I changed this comment abit to mention that Di's also can output mic level. I said that Di's output line level before, and they do, but only some! My DI outputs mic or line, some just change instrument level into mic level. The point is Di's are for instrument level and meant to change them to mic level(typically)so an instrument could be plugged into a mixing consoles mic channel preamp, and so long cable runs wouldnt cause signal degredation! Anyway, lol, point is, your fine to go from mic preamp to an interface, you dont need a DI lol!
Cheers mate! Not sure how I get my Saffire Focusrite Pro 24 DSP preamps switched off. It's probably done digitally with the wizard that comes with the hardware. However I may not have had them off in the past. My guitar was going through a GAP 73 preamp. This preamp was hooked up to the interface via XLRs. Now I am using 1/4" balanced cables to go from my Kemper into my interface, leaving the GAP 73 out of the chain.
Very informative and easy to understand video. The visualization thing works really good to help me as not native english speaker to follow along. Thank you for your videos man, all the best
thanks A LOT for clarifying this topic !! i'm still wondering why i should use an XLR or a TRS to connect my preamp to my forcusrite? do you know why? would you explain? ;)
I believe some interfaces bypass the gain stage? when connecting a TRS into a combo jack. So all control would be from the preamp. I don’t think the focusrite interfaces have that option.
Did you ever do it? I have an id 14 and Audernt says you can do it but there is no way to avoid the preamp. I you are using an external with ID-14 please tell me how you do it. Is the power adapter plugged in? You use some kind of direct box?
@@otwdpodcast you either don't have the line button pressed on your interface or you have the phantom power on your interface on. However, if you have the input of you interface as an xlr, you have to press the mic button on your interface instead of the line button
Well now I’m worried because I had just purchased the presonus studio channel preamp and I set it up the way you have said not too. Now I only had it hook up that way and on for maybe a hour but I wasn’t recording thru it. I tested my voice thru my mic a couple times but I then had shit it down. I have the presonus auidio box as shown in your video with the presonus studio channel preamp. So my main question and thanks in advance if I choose to run the preamp thru the studio box. Do I have to have the direct box? Now I’m also thinking about up grading my interface with the presonus 1824 interface. If I do so...will I still need the direct box or would me upgrading to the 1824 and using line out work instead or be better? I’m having a tough time with this lol
I’ve watched this video so many times trying to catch what he’s saying. He starts by saying don’t go XLR from your pre amp to your interface. But then when he’s showing what he uses he says if your going XLR that’s fine???
@@sos8747 In that case (if you had an XLR line out) you would need a balanced XLR to TRS adapter cable (to go into your interface inputs, with line level selected). Right?
Thanks for this video. I have a Shure SM58 and would like to connect it to my PC. I currently have a standard XLR cable going to a XLR to USB adapter. I've had issues with Windows 10 using this setup (low mic input, no mic boost, big pain in the butt). I'd rather not use any kind of USB adapter again, so I'm thinking of buying a PreSonus TubePre V2. My plan was to use a balanced XLR cable between the mic and the TubePre V2, then a TSR to TSR cable to the mic input on my PC, but according to your instructions, I should have a "Direct Box" between the TubePre V2 and PC, eh? I just want to do this right without damaging my equipment. Thanks in advance.
You need to get an interface, not a stand alone preamp. I would recommend the Focusrite 2i2. It's a great little piece of gear and will solve your gain issue and also enable you to buy more mics in the future and have a way to connect them!
The real concern he's talking about is impedance bridging, which isn't a problem on most (if not all?) consumer interfaces. The XLR/TRS combo jacks should switch to line level impedance when a TRS plug is connected. I agree with him that you should never connect a pre-amp to the Mic input but this video is just endlessly confusing... *EDIT* Okay, after a quick search, that Presonus Audiobox that he's using for an example only has Mic/INSTRUMENT combo jacks in which case you would need the D.I. box to step down the signal (which it clearly states in the manual.) Moral of the story is READ THE MANUAL! Also, for the 100 dollar interface, and 150 dollar tube pre just get yourself a Focusrite instead ;)
Ty for the video! One question though… Are you using 1 or 2 (balanced TRS cables) going from the Preamp -> Audio Interface (when using a single microphone to the Preamp)? Also good thing you explained the different cable types! :) I usually differentiate the two by naming them: "Guitar cable" (unbalanced phono) and "Microphone Cable" (balanced phono or XLR).
Thank you for the video. How would I get a DI signal from a preamp (tech21 fly rig) with my 2i2??? The signal in my DAW is very unclear for detecting transients, a DI would be great for editing. Please help
Hi, i'm buyin' an IK I/O One, mostly for my guitars. I know that this interfaca has a good inner preamp but almost not "setteable...", so I wonder if a good valve preamp + DI box before the IK interface could give me a better signal sound to manage my computer amp sims ....or it's an absolute nonsense? Thx 4 your time.
I got a VERY dumb question, so go easy. Is it cool to connect your electric guitar/bass with pedals attached to the DI of a tube preamp and then of course into the line in on the audio interface? Just seeing if it's done and if it's okay on the preamp. I already know the answer, but I need a confirmation, as "yes you fool" or "no, NEVER do that, you'll destroy something." Hahaha.
Hi guy, congrats for your video, I was looking for something like this, and you are the only one that I found.. I have a question about this. In my case, I have my guitar amp with a preamp out (separated from FX LOOP) and I want to connect it to my mixer. Is it also feasible to connect them through a DI Box?
It's possible to connect the preamp (little dot mk 2) to the Line Output of a DAC (in my case Focusrite Solo 3rd) ? I'd like to use properly my Beyerdynamic DT770 pro (250Ohm) connecting it to the "headphones output" of the preamp (little dot mk2). ___________ Signal Path: Computer > USB Cable > Focusrite Solo > Line Output (L/R)[focusrite] / RCA > Line Input Little Dot Mk2 > Headphones Output > Headphones Thank You
Hello please help!!! I have an external preamp and I’m trying to hook it up to my interface but I don’t want to damage my gear and i want to connect everything properly. Here’s my set up I have an audix mic I would like to run it through my Neve 511 pre which is in my lunch box. From the lunch box I want to go into my clarett 8pre interface. What audio cable do I need to use from the lunchbox to the interface and why?? The line n mic level thing has me confused. My interface has combi-jacks. The lunchbox only has XLR outputs.
Another thing to point out is "Combo Jacks". A lot of newer interfaces have Microphone/Line Inputs all in one input with a combo jack. UA's Apollo Duo series has this type of input where you can select either a Mic Level or Line Level for the input. So a Direct Box wouldn't be required in such a scenario. EVERYONE seems to have different knowledge on Line vs mic level... it's a shame. Focusrite had a few diagrams in their older preamps where they showed a Mic Preamp going directly into a Mic Input. I believe Tascam did as well. I remember reading that you were able to connect with that particular scenario as long as you had the Interface Preamp set lower to somehow duplicate the -10db or +4db haha.
Hi? I have a mixer, a Eureka mic pre, and a Focusright 2i2 interface. I also have a TC Helicon TC Helicon Voiceworks unit. The mixer has an Instrument, Line, and Direct. Its a Soundcraft Spirit FX16. I'm assuming the Direct is the equivalent to a direct box?
Sure, if the specifications of the output and input are compatible, you can make a straight connection between them and expect it to work properly. A DI box is only needed if you wish to connect instrument or line level signal to a mic pre.
Nice video! I was wondering if you could help me on something since you're more experienced. I play electronic drums hooked via midi to my macmini. I also have an SMSL SU8 DAC connected to the macmini via USB and an SMSL SP200 headphone amp connected with XLR to the DAC to drive my Beyer DT 1770 (250 ohm) heaphones. I'm very satisfied with the sound i'm getting but i was wondering if i could add a tube preamp to get even better sound. I also plan to buy 2 alesis Strike 8 drum monitors in the future. Could you tell me how i should connect all these together in order to listen from both heaphones and monitors at the same time with a preamp included? Thank you!
So many misspoken parts to this. DI box = Instrument to Mic level (line will be reduced, but still hot, use a -10dB pad. Some DIs have this built in) Mic pre = Mic to Line level Re-Amp = Line to Instrument level Descending voltage: Line > Instrument > Mic Amplifying voltage: Mic or Inst < Line
@@DaltonRimmerGTO Do you have line inputs on the back of your interface? If your interface is made to use multiple instrument and mic connections, chances are you do. Actually, I just looked at your box online and you don't. Use the DI box then.
thanks for the video, I was wondering about this as I have a focusrite scarlett 6i6 and was thinking of buying a universal audio preamp and was wondering how that was going to work. I am new to recording, with a separate preamp
I have a DI/Pre. My interface has only 2 in's . Has Adat which I should get say an Octapre. But in the mean time can I use the DI/Pre which does have a bass and Treble and output knobs ( similar to the Noble DI). It has Balance and unbalance out. Can I go into the interface from the DI/Pre? I have a Mackie 12 channel mixer and I think its not going to give a good signal as the DI/pre is a much better unit. The interface is A babyface RME. Has two XLR left and right ins and a regular guitar input.
Can’t seem to find a video about the question I have, but this is somewhat close. So, can I (and how) plug in a mixer (Yamaha Pro Mix 01) to my audio interface (PreSonus Audiobox iTwo)? I’m in a lack of inputs :|
No, you can't do that effectively. You just have to buy a higher level/quality interface. But why do you need more? Working with a band or multiple artists at once?
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I would like to add another "Thank You" for this video. I too have the same set-up from my Scarlett interface into my
286s preamp. After some research, I realized you were absolutely right. But the real truth came after the hook up itself.
The line distortion I had been experiencing pre hookup had disappeared immediately. Nothing but clarity beyond
this point forward. One word... Amazing. I would never had figured out something so simple would be such a game
changer. Please your invaluable work. You are appreciated.
Did you buy the DI box as he suggested? Just wondering because I have the exact set up that he says is wrong. Thanks.
It absolutely does work in giving you a cleaner recording and less noise.
Every interface I've see for the last decade or so has a line in. You'll be fine. just go trs from a balanced line out to the line in on the interface. Thats literally what it was designed for. Converting it to instrument level and then boosting it back to line level is redundant and will introduce more noice into the signal.
should i use balanced or unbalanced trs cable?
@@wrongtimecaller All trs cables have the ability to be either. Trs means is has 3 connections (tip ring sleeve) which you need for a balanced signal.
@@wrongtimecaller ts means unbalanced. Trs means balanced
My native instruments komplete audio 2 has a line/instrument switch on the front 2 inputs. Pretty simple for me just plug it in with an adapter for the plugs half-inch I think
This is true but I think for many people not experienced in the field they will usually default to using one of the front inputs which usually have their own preamps. You are right though.
Mate, I appreciate that you have good intentions and trying to teach people however you should really clarify that most audio interfaces with one or two inputs (even at the time when you made this video) have line level in. Most interfaces inputs have XLR as Mic in or TRS 1/4 inch as instrument or line in. There is usually a switch that lets you select one or the other.
yeah. i enjoyed the video but a direct boxe isnt needed in a home studio. line is built in. direct box is more for a distance between a pre amp and interface.
The PreSonus Audiobox 96 is still extremely popular and has no line inputs, it's mic or instrument level only. I assume this video was for people like me that are trying to figure out the best way to connect outboard stuff to the PreSonus Audiobox 96.
I had absolutely no idea, maybe that's the cause of my issue! Thanks!
Thanks for being the first guy speaking about connecting the proper way on connecting a preamp to the interface
Without people like you, I would go insane. Thank you for making this so much more clear.
XLR cables are balanced, the third pin provides the extra ground to keep the signal balanced. The only reason I could see to convert it to a line signal would in case you accidently send a signal that's too hot, but if you don't know how to gain stage from the pre amp to the interface then no amount of gear or signal conversion is going to help you.
I bought a tube pre years ago and never understood why it sounded so noisy and bad, so it's just been collecting dust all this time. I had some direct boxes sitting around, so after watching your video it was just a matter of putting the pieces together. Thanks for the advice!
That is correct, thanks for making this video. I use to connect using TRS to combo connection ( front input ), and couple months ago, i changed it to the back connection, input line. Sound change dramatically, perfect. Line to line level. That is correct. Super thanks
As long as your interface has a line option, you can use that. That's the "PAD" switch in your interface which i think most of the audio interfaces have.
Make sure to turn off your interface's volume before plugging your connector and switch to the "PAD" option.
So you do not need to use direct box if your interface has an instrument setting in it?
@@Mrdennismalloy correct - you do NOT need a DI box.
@@Mrdennismalloy I believe audio interface is a DI box, correct me if I'm wrong.
i avoided blowing up my interface thanks, and I love the czech mandolin. Have seen two of those in my life and had my hands on one at one time. They were great mandos.
Just bought a MOTU M4 as it has two Mic pres plus 2 line ins that bypass it's mic pres. Wonderful interface. Made in the U.S.A!
this is really helpful info that i feel can be easily convoluted on forums and instructional videos. this also applies to stacking preamps of any kind, like if you were someone who recorded analog wanted to use an external pre with a mixing console, the same rule applies for gain staging
Actually, you can go direct in from your external preamp if the interfact has the feature that disables the preamp if you use a TRS connection in the combi jack instead of an XLR
Does Audient id14 mkii have this feature?
Thanks for this! It's info like this which has just helped me to avoid a critical error. I've just ordered my gear an hour ago. Because my Roland Duo-Capture Ex audio interface surprisingly doesn't have Line In, I'm replacing it with a Steinberg UR242. I'm hooking it up to a Behringer MIC 2200 19 inch 2-channel tube preamp, which I've also just ordered. I'm looking forward to hearing the sound I get from them.
This says the instruction manual of the Roland Duo-Capture Ex : INPUT 1 jack supports high impedance.Do you know anything about this? I have this card and I would like to know if Imput 1 will be used to connect a mic preamp.Thank you
Old vid
Most interfaces have front end Hiz and rear combi Jack’s that are typically disengaged when using that front Hiz for guitar, base Ts input or at least front side switches to choose, most useful for in the box emulations guitar rig, bias, amplitube,ect…
Better boxes allow you to bypass the on board preamps and hit the converters directly these days it’s pretty common
And of course the line ins are fine for outboard preamps running in series (instrument or mic-preamp-interface) or use a patch bay, the Samson S patch plus is nice for the normal, half normal, thru front panel switches, (no more card cart wheels) then you can create patch points (ins and outs) and use any outboard gear you want in any routing config you want
Some guys insist on xlr for mics and pres due to phantom power worries
I use trs, combi and xlr at different places for different purposes
Just don’t energize your 48v until your all connected
My neve shelfords channel strips have xlr outs in two db flavors depending on the interface and the levels you want coming in
I just send all of them to the patch bay rears along with UA 710s, 1176 or whatever you got and label everything
Just below are all of my Apollo interface ins with built in preamp channels and line in clearly labeled
And last are the adat spdif expansion ins, again preamp channels, line ins and outs from DB25s are all labeled and assessable from the front
So even with a small studio I still have 3 patchbays, 1 xlr, 1 combi and 1 trs outs over ins, there inexpensive, logical and makes your studio look cool
I put 1U blank cover over and under each PB for labeling
There are only a few rules that are important for keeping your hardware safe for outboard
Ventilation usually 1U up and down read the manual
Labeling, no brainer, or you would think
Clean power with the amps to spare
Dust control! Vacuum using hepa, Don’t just brush or blow it around with canned air, where do you think it goes?
Good quality cabling, ts,trs,xlr,TT,military, DB25, Ethercon, or whatever..
And never power up your phantom 48v until your all plugged in regardless of the connector, just don’t hot swap, if you don’t
power up then you’ll find you can use any 3 conductor connector for phantom power with no shorting it’s a simple hot, neutral, ground just check the manual
Because some older gear like my Eventide H3000 has a ground, neutral alteration so I have altered cords for that box
In my 60s now and phantom power was around before i was (invented in 1966 by Neumann) and I’ve not fried anything, aaah yet
i had the same problem till yesterday that I bought the cable you advice of.. and now sounds better.. before I be getting vocals too loud ... I connect my Avalon to line 5 .. and now I can use my Avalon much better ...
Tracking a reggae funk soul group and haven"t tracked a keyboard before. Helpful video. Thanks!
Great to know. I'd just aquired an XLR and tried connecting my Mark Bass to my Interface. Big up!!!
subscribed because your the only person to answer that question .........how would I run my line 6 pod into my interface same way?.....yes all vague info on this subject on net
Shared and liked! Happy to find this after hours of searching! Looking to see if you explain digital ins and outs somewhere next!
This video explains every concept pretty bad. I saw a lot of other videos after this and got familiar with the ideas. I came back and wow it makes sense, but if I didn't have all this information. This video would have mislead me and I would have bought a DI box for no apparent reason and its not just that one thing that is very badly explained, all this could have been very easily avoided, especially when the aim of the video is it to be simple and remove any confusion. The comments here helped a ton, I really appreciate the comments.
ist About to connect an analog gear correctly, not About to explain you what interface you have and all that hahah
@@romanka1066 I know what its about. He did a bad job of explaining exactly that. I don't need him to explain about my interface or any of that.
You can't go wrong owning a D.I. box
So where can I find these other videos? I have the exact set up that he says is wrong, so I'm not sure where to go next. Thanks!
Thanks for the video! All this "technical studio stuff" is very hard to get a good grip on if you lack the basic pre-knowledge or experience about it, plus most ppl just wanna get started recording their music, etc... Buying a piece of hardware like an "external pre-amp for vocal, guitar, etc" can put some ppl off I guess… If you don't know how to hook things up on a basic home studio... Like I'd guess many ppl these Days have a computer and an Audio Interface to begin with... And they have a few instruments like guitar, bass, microphone, keyboard... Then the next step is to buy some additional hardware like a pre-amp, a compressor, a reverb/delay unit, etc. Then these "thechnical headaches" usually begins... ;) So much easier to just use plugins, right? Well, it takes some research into different "signal levels", different connectors (jacks/plugs) & different "cable types"... Good thing we have RUclips, google, etc! :)
One thing though, I believe a "TRS-cable" can carry either a stereo or a mono signal, while a "TS-cable" only carries a mono signal.
You just saved my Alesis iO Dock ll from being made of smoke. I have the ART tube preamp & have been wanting to utilize it. Thanks
The main thing is to connect from external preamp into a line level input, not instrument or mic combo input, check the specs of your interface.
For the price of 2 di boxs its cheaper to get another interface that has line level inputs IMHO.
Thanks for getting that clear. Very helpful.
As always... Very useful info! You're an excellent communicator!!! Thanks!
Good stuff...I have Tascam UH7000 with superb preamps which can serve as a stand alone, output thru my Kopul Humbuster and XLR into my Denon Mixer, with no fear of causing damage ? Mic into the Tascam via a Cloudlifter, this is for voice only live streaming.
Those Presonus tube preamps you're using output an already-line-level signal. To bypass the preamps in the interface (usually, with most interfaces) using a balanced TRS connector into the 1/4" input in the center of the connector on the interface USUALLY bypasses the preamp. Just wanted to correct you.
I was wondering the same thing here. On your first correction, if I do NOT turn on the INST button on the PreSonus Tube Pre v2 then I'm assuming it's line level already. The v2 have a INST button that I think makes it instrument level.
i was wondering this. I'm planning on buying a RNP and a behringer interface which had line/instrrument options. doest that remove the need for a DI as well??
So if I have the tube pre v2 and AudioBox do I just go xlr from mic to pre amp and then xlr from pre amp to interface? Or do I still have to use the 1/4 inch cable?
you still should go from the tube with a 1/4 inch cable to the mixer. This will give you a much cleaner sound. Mic XLR to the tube XLR.
@@kalvinwilson6587 yo can you elaborate on that?. Are you saying microphone into your preamp. Then preamp into a mixer, then mixer into audio interface?
Hmmm... I have a focusrite 2i2 3rd gen. which has a Line/Instrument switch from focusrite control, do I still need the DI Box?
No.
I just wanted to say thank you bro, I was stuck and your video save me. thanks again!
Great vid man!
Wondering about di box placement or if it’s even needed if I’m going into my isa one into my fatman tube compressor into my Scarlett.
tl;dr:
preamp out to preamp in = NO (use DI)
preamp out to line in = YES
Nathan a small mixer with direct outputs would be the best thing for you probably.
Yes you are wright, it would be preamp out to line in. Going XLR to XLR only brings humm.
@@kalvinwilson6587 trs to trs
Some interfaces with Neutrik inputs on the front such as Focusrite Scarlet 2i2s have a line/instrument switch so you can change between those levels when you plug a 1/4" TRS cable into it from your external preamp. All you have to do then is turn the gain on the interface all the way down.
@@pip5528 is that really a good way tho? Get the feeling the interface won't feel so good from that in the run
But that presonus audiobox that you used as an example has a built in di in one of the inputs, hence the mic/instrument difference
Not even recyclables.
Why can't you just connect your preamp into the preamp on the interface but set the input to "line" instead of "instrument"? Won't that do the same thing as a DI box?
I hope so!
That would be a proper connection since it's line output to line input. That's not exactly what a DI box does though. A DI box will enable you to convert an instrument level or a line level signal down to mic level, so you can connect it to the mic input of a preamp.
If you do more research you find that getting a good mic prevents you from needing a DI box because it will properly do what the DI box does. Especially considering that DI boxes were built specifically for instruments that were unbalanced and NOT for Mics. So what you really should be saying is if you purchase a mic that provides unbalanced signals (whether through the mic or cables, which im sure someone can clarify) then maybe you should get a DI box or better yet, purchase a mic and mic cables that are balanced to get rid of an extra point of failure.
So much wrong said with so much conviction 😂 what you talking about Bro. You should delete this lol
I'm more surprised it has 6 likes 😂
In this video he's not suggesting to connect a mic into a DI box. As far as I'm concerned, he's saying you should connect the line output of a preamp to the DI box which is a correct thing to do if you want to convert the signal back to mic level. That would enable you to connect it to the mic input of the interface (if it doesn't have a line input to make a straight connection without the need for a DI box).
@@JiihaaS so if my interface has a line input, I can just use a XLR from the output of the preamp right into the interface correct ? 🤔
I like the video! Well-done and informative. I have a question for you though. I have a Tascam us-16x08. It subs as a mic preamp when not plugged into my 'puter. It has 8 xlr ins on the front with 8 -1/4 outs and 8 -1/4 ins on the back. I've ran my XLR snake lines through the back of a pass-through in my effects rack, connected to the XLR ins on the front of my interface, out the 1/4 outs on the back of the interface, up to the mic inputs on my Xenyx x2442usb mixer and I get no sound! Have all gains and levels turned up enough to be able to hear. Nothing! Just poking around for others answers. Oh and all my cables are balanced.
Thanks for your videos they have really helped me with my recording!
You can go 1/4 TRS output from preamp to 1/4 TRS input on the dual XLR/TRS input jack of a interface...
Thank you sooooo much. I’m plugging a Boss VE8 into a Yamaha MX10 and was wondering why I was struggling with it ... off to Long and McQuade for a DI.
Totally helpful... I was doing it wrong. Thanks
Very , very useful . Thank you very much .
Am right after the DirectBox mention and am wondering if this applies to Focusrite too, as their interfaces have a switch for mic/line on their inputs.
Many thanks in advance if anybody knows this ( :
Thanks for the video. Clear, concise & extremely helpful 👊🏾
Thanks for this!
Thanks this helps alot i was connecting my preamp to the audio interface with xlr cables im an idiot my interface has line imputs on the back with trs entrances
Excellent video! If I use guitar into a preamp should I just run straight into the preamp ? I have a focusrite 18i20 - would I need to use a DI in this case? I have one. I want to record direct because I will reamp
awesome tip, thanks mate!
The device in your example has no line inputs, but in most devices they do. You would flip a switch i in the case of the Focusrite, or you use the phone input, instead of XLR for line input on the Steinberg.
My focusrite PRO 24 DSP most definitely has line inputs on the back. I use them all the time!
That's great, Thank you! This makes sense. Would not having a DI box make your sound still come through the amp speakers? Let me explain... I have a Fishman Loudbox Mini. I ran an XLR cable from the XLR DI output into my mixing board then into my interface. I got the sound through the headphones just fine.. BUT.. I ALSO got it from the amp speaker. What's up with that? I wanted to record line out and not have any sound coming from the Fishman speaker. Thank you.
What do you mean? Most proper Mic preamps I've seen have line outputs via XLR. Why would I need an extra DI?
Same. My interface has instrument/line inputs.
@@fret2fret221 doesn't apply to us then I think.
u dont need it i run my saffire pro 40 interface to the presnous preamp with a xlr to trs cable
No such thing as an interface without a line in. You don't need a DI. That's rediculous.
I use DI box for one reason only. I like to hear my amp in the room while tracking the DI. If i jam with friends while recording guitars n drums it’s always ready to record. Sometimes if it’s early in the morning i just use the amp sim. I never have to pick between plugging into an interface or my pedal board. I just plug into my pedal board which has my DI box on it and i’m ready to go. You are correct you don’t need one but’s nice to have options.
Thank you for this wonderful insight!
Thanks for this. I have a 6i6, was thinking about going to MOTU, but never really thought about even connecting another pre-amp to it considering the scarlett has pre-amps already. Just never really thought about it. I'm thinking about getting a UA LA610 for it :)
I have a 6i6 and a UA LA 610 MK2 and I have mine running through preamp 1 on my 6i6 but I am running the preamp volume on my 6i6 all the way down to zero and am not having any issues. I am using an xlr out of my LA-610 to TRS 1/4in input in the 6i6.
Perfect! I just need to switch line on my Apollo 8 and that will give me less noise? Thanks bro. Love your vids!!!
Whats best TRS out to TRS line in or XLR out to TRS line in?
Whether you use TRS or XLR does not matter per se. The only difference is the plug and connector. The decisive factor is the signal level. If your preamp outputs a line level signal via XLR, you can use XLR line out on TRS line in. If the XLR output is Miclevel only, the signal will most likely be too weak for the TRS line in. In this case use TRS to TRS. Just try it out.
Xlr-line level output to xlr ( interface) ?? Possible??!
If your interface has selectable combination mic/line inputs, you can plug in directly to the interface and select the line level...no need for the DI box.
Cool one. I’ve been doing this wrong all along using XLR to go from my preamp to my interface. I hope I did not fry its built-in preamps.
Thats fine, just have your interface preamps all the way off! You can also go 1/4'' balanced in if you have combo jacks on your interface and it might bypass the preamp all together but not always. You do not need a DI, all a DI does is change an instrument level and outputs a mic or line(on some) level signal but your outboard preamp is changing the mic to line level and your interface is made to accept line level anyway so its fine to go line in to an interface! sorry, I changed this comment abit to mention that Di's also can output mic level. I said that Di's output line level before, and they do, but only some! My DI outputs mic or line, some just change instrument level into mic level. The point is Di's are for instrument level and meant to change them to mic level(typically)so an instrument could be plugged into a mixing consoles mic channel preamp, and so long cable runs wouldnt cause signal degredation! Anyway, lol, point is, your fine to go from mic preamp to an interface, you dont need a DI lol!
Cheers mate!
Not sure how I get my Saffire Focusrite Pro 24 DSP preamps switched off. It's probably done digitally with the wizard that comes with the hardware.
However I may not have had them off in the past. My guitar was going through a GAP 73 preamp. This preamp was hooked up to the interface via XLRs.
Now I am using 1/4" balanced cables to go from my Kemper into my interface, leaving the GAP 73 out of the chain.
Very informative and easy to understand video. The visualization thing works really good to help me as not native english speaker to follow along.
Thank you for your videos man, all the best
Great video
So helpful Thanks!
thanks A LOT for clarifying this topic !! i'm still wondering why i should use an XLR or a TRS to connect my preamp to my forcusrite? do you know why? would you explain? ;)
I believe some interfaces bypass the gain stage? when connecting a TRS into a combo jack. So all control would be from the preamp. I don’t think the focusrite interfaces have that option.
Can I hook up a external preamp to my audient id14 which says on the combo jack mic/line input.
Did you ever do it? I have an id 14 and Audernt says you can do it but there is no way to avoid the preamp. I you are using an external with ID-14 please tell me how you do it. Is the power adapter plugged in? You use some kind of direct box?
when using my preamp should my interface mic gain be turned down and only the gain the pre amp turned up?
+matachapetes2 yes!
@@GaragebandandBeyond Tried this. Can't hear shit.
@@otwdpodcast Take me through your signal path from microphone to computer. I'll see if I can help.
@@otwdpodcast you either don't have the line button pressed on your interface or you have the phantom power on your interface on. However, if you have the input of you interface as an xlr, you have to press the mic button on your interface instead of the line button
Well now I’m worried because I had just purchased the presonus studio channel preamp and I set it up the way you have said not too. Now I only had it hook up that way and on for maybe a hour but I wasn’t recording thru it. I tested my voice thru my mic a couple times but I then had shit it down. I have the presonus auidio box as shown in your video with the presonus studio channel preamp. So my main question and thanks in advance if I choose to run the preamp thru the studio box. Do I have to have the direct box? Now I’m also thinking about up grading my interface with the presonus 1824 interface. If I do so...will I still need the direct box or would me upgrading to the 1824 and using line out work instead or be better? I’m having a tough time with this lol
Great info, thanks!!!
I’ve watched this video so many times trying to catch what he’s saying. He starts by saying don’t go XLR from your pre amp to your interface. But then when he’s showing what he uses he says if your going XLR that’s fine???
You could have an xlr line input that's why, you shouldnt go xlr into you audio interface preamps
@@sos8747 In that case (if you had an XLR line out) you would need a balanced XLR to TRS adapter cable (to go into your interface inputs, with line level selected). Right?
You cant use a preamp into a uad apollo ?... wtf this is news to me,
Thanks for this video. I have a Shure SM58 and would like to connect it to my PC. I currently have a standard XLR cable going to a XLR to USB adapter. I've had issues with Windows 10 using this setup (low mic input, no mic boost, big pain in the butt). I'd rather not use any kind of USB adapter again, so I'm thinking of buying a PreSonus TubePre V2. My plan was to use a balanced XLR cable between the mic and the TubePre V2, then a TSR to TSR cable to the mic input on my PC, but according to your instructions, I should have a "Direct Box" between the TubePre V2 and PC, eh? I just want to do this right without damaging my equipment. Thanks in advance.
You need to get an interface, not a stand alone preamp.
I would recommend the Focusrite 2i2. It's a great little piece of gear and will solve your gain issue and also enable you to buy more mics in the future and have a way to connect them!
GaragebandandBeyond and this is all I would need?
The real concern he's talking about is impedance bridging, which isn't a problem on most (if not all?) consumer interfaces. The XLR/TRS combo jacks should switch to line level impedance when a TRS plug is connected. I agree with him that you should never connect a pre-amp to the Mic input but this video is just endlessly confusing... *EDIT* Okay, after a quick search, that Presonus Audiobox that he's using for an example only has Mic/INSTRUMENT combo jacks in which case you would need the D.I. box to step down the signal (which it clearly states in the manual.) Moral of the story is READ THE MANUAL! Also, for the 100 dollar interface, and 150 dollar tube pre just get yourself a Focusrite instead ;)
Would i need that direct box to connect a turntable preamp mixer to the interface???
Ty for the video! One question though… Are you using 1 or 2 (balanced TRS cables) going from the Preamp -> Audio Interface (when using a single microphone to the Preamp)? Also good thing you explained the different cable types! :) I usually differentiate the two by naming them: "Guitar cable" (unbalanced phono) and "Microphone Cable" (balanced phono or XLR).
only 1
Thank you for the video. How would I get a DI signal from a preamp (tech21 fly rig) with my 2i2??? The signal in my DAW is very unclear for detecting transients, a DI would be great for editing. Please help
Hi, i'm buyin' an IK I/O One, mostly for my guitars. I know that this interfaca has a good inner preamp but almost not "setteable...", so I wonder if a good valve preamp + DI box before the IK interface could give me a better signal sound to manage my computer amp sims ....or it's an absolute nonsense? Thx 4 your time.
Thank you bro you saved 😇😍
Some interfaces allow you to go from Line to Inst level on a per input basis also.
I got a VERY dumb question, so go easy. Is it cool to connect your electric guitar/bass with pedals attached to the DI of a tube preamp and then of course into the line in on the audio interface? Just seeing if it's done and if it's okay on the preamp. I already know the answer, but I need a confirmation, as "yes you fool" or "no, NEVER do that, you'll destroy something." Hahaha.
Hi guy, congrats for your video, I was looking for something like this, and you are the only one that I found.. I have a question about this. In my case, I have my guitar amp with a preamp out (separated from FX LOOP) and I want to connect it to my mixer. Is it also feasible to connect them through a DI Box?
It's possible to connect the preamp (little dot mk 2) to the Line Output of a DAC (in my case Focusrite Solo 3rd) ?
I'd like to use properly my Beyerdynamic DT770 pro (250Ohm) connecting it to the "headphones output" of the preamp (little dot mk2).
___________
Signal Path: Computer > USB Cable > Focusrite Solo > Line Output (L/R)[focusrite] / RCA > Line Input Little Dot Mk2 > Headphones Output > Headphones
Thank You
Hello please help!!!
I have an external preamp and I’m trying to hook it up to my interface but I don’t want to damage my gear and i want to connect everything properly.
Here’s my set up
I have an audix mic
I would like to run it through my Neve 511 pre which is in my lunch box. From the lunch box I want to go into my clarett 8pre interface.
What audio cable do I need to use from the lunchbox to the interface and why?? The line n mic level thing has me confused.
My interface has combi-jacks.
The lunchbox only has XLR outputs.
This video should have also included ADAT or Toslink connection.
Another thing to point out is "Combo Jacks". A lot of newer interfaces have Microphone/Line Inputs all in one input with a combo jack. UA's Apollo Duo series has this type of input where you can select either a Mic Level or Line Level for the input. So a Direct Box wouldn't be required in such a scenario. EVERYONE seems to have different knowledge on Line vs mic level... it's a shame. Focusrite had a few diagrams in their older preamps where they showed a Mic Preamp going directly into a Mic Input. I believe Tascam did as well. I remember reading that you were able to connect with that particular scenario as long as you had the Interface Preamp set lower to somehow duplicate the -10db or +4db haha.
+TriCrow Studios definitely yes! Thanks for the comment!
GaragebandandBeyond thanks for this video dude i will do exactly this. thanks again
What about if a compressor in the chain preamp compressor audio interface
Very helpful vidéo. thank you!
Thank you so much 🤙
Hi? I have a mixer, a Eureka mic pre, and a Focusright 2i2 interface. I also have a TC Helicon TC Helicon Voiceworks unit. The mixer has an Instrument, Line, and Direct. Its a Soundcraft Spirit FX16. I'm assuming the Direct is the equivalent to a direct box?
I see several videos including some very reputable saying you can use 1/4" balanced to 1/4 balanced with no need for a direct box.
Sure, if the specifications of the output and input are compatible, you can make a straight connection between them and expect it to work properly. A DI box is only needed if you wish to connect instrument or line level signal to a mic pre.
do you need the direct box if your interface has a line option already?
Ara Minasian Great question and something I regrettably left out of the video, no you do not need a direct box if your interface has that option.
@@GaragebandandBeyond thank you for replying quickly :) great video btw
@@araminasian9224 You're very welcome! Hope I could help, thanks for watching and please subscribe!
no.
@@GaragebandandBeyond DO I NEED A DIRECT BOX MY INTERFACE IS THE FORCUSRITE 2i2?
I the spectracomp and I have the direct built in to the pedal
hi thanks for this information, if i plug my outboard gear into my mic line at the back of my Audio Apollo Twin will I still need a direct box ?
love you dude
It was explained so simply! And yet I'm still confused .....(as I cry existential tears into the bleak nothingness in my studio)
Same
Me too.
Nice video! I was wondering if you could help me on something since you're more experienced. I play electronic drums hooked via midi to my macmini. I also have an SMSL SU8 DAC connected to the macmini via USB and an SMSL SP200 headphone amp connected with XLR to the DAC to drive my Beyer DT 1770 (250 ohm) heaphones. I'm very satisfied with the sound i'm getting but i was wondering if i could add a tube preamp to get even better sound. I also plan to buy 2 alesis Strike 8 drum monitors in the future. Could you tell me how i should connect all these together in order to listen from both heaphones and monitors at the same time with a preamp included? Thank you!
So many misspoken parts to this.
DI box = Instrument to Mic level (line will be reduced, but still hot, use a -10dB pad. Some DIs have this built in)
Mic pre = Mic to Line level
Re-Amp = Line to Instrument level
Descending voltage: Line > Instrument > Mic
Amplifying voltage: Mic or Inst < Line
can i use output from interface to input of preamp ? re-amping ?
What if the interface has line level and instrument input 2i2
Piotr Grella-Możejko hey can you maybe check out the focusrite 2i2 diagrams and let me know what you mean still. I think it’s neutral combo. Tia
@@DaltonRimmerGTO Do you have line inputs on the back of your interface? If your interface is made to use multiple instrument and mic connections, chances are you do. Actually, I just looked at your box online and you don't. Use the DI box then.
@@JeighNeither But it has line/inst switch so why do you need dI box?
Then, what's the purpose of the XLR output of an external pre-amp?
Audio mixers / consoles can handle varied gain staging (line and inst often), lots of 'live' audio setups prefer and role with XLR
Thank you for this video, bought a presonus bluetube and was about to plug it into the pres on my audio box, that would have been embarrassing
but its safe to turn it on via the preamp?
thanks for the video, I was wondering about this as I have a focusrite scarlett 6i6 and was thinking of buying a universal audio preamp and was wondering how that was going to work.
I am new to recording, with a separate preamp
Interesting... some interfaces have instrument/line input selectors. In this case, there’s no need of a direct box, right?
I have a DI/Pre. My interface has only 2 in's . Has Adat which I should get say an Octapre. But in the mean time can I use the DI/Pre which does have a bass and Treble and output knobs ( similar to the Noble DI). It has Balance and unbalance out. Can I go into the interface from the DI/Pre? I have a Mackie 12 channel mixer and I think its not going to give a good signal as the DI/pre is a much better unit. The interface is A babyface RME. Has two XLR left and right ins and a regular guitar input.
Can’t seem to find a video about the question I have, but this is somewhat close.
So, can I (and how) plug in a mixer (Yamaha Pro Mix 01) to my audio interface (PreSonus Audiobox iTwo)?
I’m in a lack of inputs :|
No, you can't do that effectively. You just have to buy a higher level/quality interface. But why do you need more? Working with a band or multiple artists at once?