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I have one pair of KRK (RP6) monitors connect to one MOTU 828MKII and them to the computer, using Logic.

The Logic default value in the output mixer is set to 0db… the main volume of the 828 goes from infinite to all the way up to 0db! (i use mine between 26 to 12 db, depending what i need), the KRK monitors have a pot level that goes from -30db to +6db!(i use them in the -6db position)

Some engineers have told me to use the monitors in full power(+6db), them control the volume in 828 and use the default value in the Logic, that is 0 db in the mixer output.
Others to go half the way in the monitors(between 0db), use Logic default output 0 db and control the volume in the 828…

With my settings (described above), and sometimes putting the main volume of the 828 up to -10db, the output meter don’t pass the -6db in the meter! The Logic meter show peaks to 0 db output but the 828 don’t pass -6 or -4db.

What levels do i have use in both equipments?

I’m afraid to blow the monitors… but I can’t find information about what kind of protection has the krk rokit series have…

;)

Regards

Comments

schizojames Thu, 08/31/2006 - 12:43

At home I use Cubase SX, a MOTU 896, and passive monitors connected to an amplifier. As far as monitoring goes, I have the amp at about 1/4 volume because that gives me the best range when using the knob on the 896 to adjust volume. As long as the outputs on the MOTU do not clip when using Cubase or Winamp, I consider myself to be in business, and have arranged things accordingly. As far as mixing, I almost never adjust the Master fader in Cubase (leave it at 0). Most of these mid-level pieces do not perform their best at max levels, what with their IC's and all that, so I would suggest setting the KRK's to 0 and adjusting listening level with the 828. This will keep you from constantly making adjustments within the software which will affect the actions of any software compressors, gates, etc that you have working on the audio.

And anyway, if you are worried about blowing these monitors, you may consider that you are monitoring too loud. It seems every time I go down to The Spot someone is in the main control room blasting the crap out of their little Yamahas. This is actually a very poor listening environment when checking a mix, because your ears have a naturally protective compression curve and as you know from going to concerts, a VERY slow release time.

Hope this helps,

anonymous Thu, 08/31/2006 - 15:53

Hi!

I will test tomorrow and report what i get from...

In terms of mixing, i tend to mix at lower levels, i have more accurate perception and, like you mention, the ear have one compression curve that have a slow release time!

More db to the ears more the 3 bones need to be… and they tend to be more stiff with lots of db! This isn’t what a musician wants…

I only like to blast when performing to a record or to a crow… just that! In my loneliness, i like to ear everything meticulous and in depth!

Regards

anonymous Sat, 09/02/2006 - 18:47

Hi!

Thanks for your tip… it works nice to my ear’s but I think i need to lower some db’s again in the monitors cause i have more watts now and i don’t need in my normal levels of work!

I never change the Master Output out (just for one thing or two)… and you are absolutely right about this mid level material…

;)

Regards

Kev Sun, 09/03/2006 - 15:05

welcome to gain structure

do some more google searching and read some of the different approaches
you will find white papersat Dolby and I tink Bob Katz and some of the other mastering engineers will have some info

I believe this is why you need a DAW Monitor controller ... it may also have a Switcher built in.
I have some simple ideas at one of my sites but it's all DIY stuff.

Many commercial units are becoming available and the variety in facitilies and quality is getting greater.

NOT recomending any one ... but here are a few
Dangerous MONITOR ST-SR
Dangerous MONITOR
Presonus Central ??? Station
Mackie Big Knob
Focusrite
Coleman
and more that I can't think of right now

There is no single level to satisfy all monitoring of tracking, mixing or any other situation
... and this is why a unit equivalent to the Master Control Room section of a mixing desk is required.
Just the simple MUTE switch is a must have.
Left only Right only ... MONO
a series of pre-set volume levels for specific tasks etc

I also think there is no harm in having some independant metering.