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Correct Input Sensitivity: +4 vs -10?

ZooberwerxZooberwerx Posts: 7
edited October 2009 in PA General Discussion
I have a question submitted to Behringer re: my mixer's output but have not yet received a response.

I set up the DRPA+ with the input sensitivity in the +4 (out) setting with favorable results. While playing back some canned tracks, I kicked the sensitivity to -10 (in) and found the overall ouput to be louder. Which setting would be more appropriate given the stated application? For the record, the mixer is a Behringer UB2442FX-Pro but I've thrown a wrench in the works...I've added a older BBE Sonic Maximizer (unbalanced) in the L + R main inserts which produces mild attenuation of the mixer's output signal. I know the first suggestion will be to remove the BBE from the harness but this is a situation where the device actually improves the tonal character of a less-than-stellar mixing board.

I appreciate any guidance!

Comments

  • GadgetGadget Posts: 4,915
    well...Hmmm.... I say that a lot I thinkthinking_emoticon.jpgBut it's with good reason...I'm getting ready to lower the boom here...200912104356.gif

    But actually, I suppose I should have started with.... "Your not going to like this...."g8393.gifbut here goes anyway...

    That sonic maximizer is actually a sonic scrambler (actually to be more specific a psycho acoustic device that tricks your brain) ... ...kinda interesting as an effect, but if your looking for clean, intelligible sound, the BBE is fooling you... the Driverack can do WAY better... Now I realize that the Behringer mixers aren't great by any stretch...but I have 2 MX3282's, a 3242, a UBFX2442, a couple other smaller ones the 1622FX even the newer xenyx 1622fx which is just a 1622fx with a different paint job...and I have to say I think they sound better than the Mackie mixers...and I have been able to get excellent results with all the different mixers, just have to follow different paths to the end result...

    As for the output... the max out of the BBE is 16dBu the jumper is set @ 20dBu on the Driverack...3db is the point at which the change is noticeable... 3db represents a doubling of the sound, to get twice as loud takes 10 times the power... so those 4 db losses are noticeable...

    The -10 setting is for matching with consumer level components...those that typically only use RCA or at best 1/4" outputs.

    Ok, I have some BBE processors...Fool.gifI used to think they were the BOMB Kaboom.gifthen I got the Driverack and the BBE's have been gathering dust ever since (interested in a GREAT deal on some BBE's?) I WILL NOT USE ONE IN THE SIGNAL CHAIN!!!AddEmoticons04249.gif

    So you never said if you have a measurement mic?...you never said anything about your setup method... May I offer these things for you to try WITHOUT the BBE...
    viewtopic.php?f=61&t=959
    and the FAQ section:
    viewforum.php?f=60
    where you'll find nearly 40 sound related topics to help with your sound... try these things and lose the BBE... that's my stance...
    Gadget
  • ZooberwerxZooberwerx Posts: 7
    Thank you. I did use the gain structure set-up procedure located in the manual and found my amp attenuator levels varied slightly from the suggested settings in Auto Set-Up. The RTA was a good investment but my trial-runs were performed in my living room (wife just loves pink noise) and results are no way reflective of what I expect to encounter in a live venue. I also found the Quick-Start guide to be quite helpful.

    Appreciate the clarification re: BBE SM's....I will remove it so as not to cloud the issue and maintain the +4 setting.

    Riis
  • GadgetGadget Posts: 4,915
    Just try the flattening methods and see what you think... add your own coloration as necessary... It's pretty amazimg when you get it right.
    G
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