Re: Laptop to Driverack PA2 setup help (levels)
Posted: Fri Jun 10, 2022 9:51 am
48 is fine and safe, 49,50,51 is likely fine too. You'll never know the difference (0.5dB between 48 & 51), so may as well and just set it for 48 and enjoy the peace of mind.
I've always just used an online tone generator if there wasn't one already built into my gear.
onlinetonegenerator.com
The picture indicates the limiter is engaged and actively limiting, not clipping. So, you're on the right track.howiez wrote: ↑Thu Jun 09, 2022 5:32 pm Ok, maybe i'm not clipping, I thought the orange light for each channel was clip, but it's green, then orange for Threshold. I guess that means my overeasy limiter is working.
I also just realized, now that I have a pre-amp/line out, I never turned the DBX back to 1.4v, which would explain how I get high levels so quick. I'll change it and try again.
But I'm still curious about what level of test tone I'm putting through, maybe my 0dBfs was fine, I'm just coming out of the USB box too hot now.
That can't be the case though, since it's RCA L/R, that would be consumer level or -10dB correct?
DBX_TOPS.jpg
1502_VOLTS.jpg
My best guess is, yes. The USB box is likely -10dB if it has RCA outputs and -10dB would be the correct switch position on the Driverack.
I'd try and test it the way you originally had it hooked up too, note any difference, and use it the way that makes the most sense to you. You really should be fine using the 3.5mm to XLR deal. It would also allow you to plug into phones and other devices that have a 3.5mm jack too.
However, one benefit to using a USB soundcard is, it usually gives you the option to have a headphone/monitor output for mixing, along with the mains output. Which, if you're using DJ software, may interest you.