I think I finally found a site that I can relate to. It looks like a lot more experince here then the site gives itself credit for, so I hope my question is not too basic.
Though I have been home recording for about 4 years via PC, I have not done any recent "live" recording. I have an upcoming gig I'm playing in with some old friends and I am going to use my old faithfull portable Reel to Reel to record in lieu of my desktop UNportable. I have limited mixing equipment (Peavey XR 550C). Though I know what mix and db levels to shoot for, I am struggling to understand how much gain or amplification is best for input into the R2R. To obtain the lowest noise in the recording I assume I should use a lower mixer output level and higher R2R input recording level to minimize hiss from the mixer (Though I suppose it may depend on the Reel's own noise characteristics). My "old" ears are hearing more noise with the recording level up and the mixer down (though that may come from the output on the the R2R headphone circuit). Using a higher mixer level and lower R2R level sounds opposite of various articles I read on the web. HELP!
If it matters, I plan on using the monitor signal to get a flat signal (not record live effects or EQ & add effects/EQ later when I master). I'm a one man show and no time to adjust reverb/ EQ level through the effects main during the performance.
Thanks
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Thanx M77. I got you on the record to tape. But, I hate to say i
Thanx M77. I got you on the record to tape. But, I hate to say it, you're talking to an amateur. I lost you on Unity Gain. The only db levels I can see is on the tape machine. Nothing is available on the mixer console (PA/mixer equipment). With both my R2R and mixer I have a value of 1 - 10 on the faders. The best I understand 0 db is a meter reading on the R2R that can be effected by either the fader on the R2R or the mixers output (monitor). I also understand EQ db levels, but that does not come into play with the monitor signal I am using to tape from i.e. no EQ control on monitor output. Sorry, a newbie to the techno babble.
Mix is correct in that +3 to +6 on a profesional machine like a
Mix is correct in that +3 to +6 on a profesional machine like a 2" multitrack, would be appropriate. But on a semi pro deck like a Tascam or Teac or a Fostex, 2, 4 or 8 track on a narrow guage, 0 to +3 would be more in order. As Mix said, you know (or should know) your machine. 7 or 8 on the mixer scale should be correct to. Masters or Bus sends should be in this area also. .... Fats
Sorry, I meant "then the FORUM gives itself credit for"... detai
Sorry, I meant "then the FORUM gives itself credit for"... details, details...