Recording and use of VU meter.

[Ron Randall]

I use and older tube preamp with a VU meter, for my SM57, and record using a Yamaha 2816 digital recorder.

So, when I get the volume toward 0 db (almost straight up) on the Volume Unit meter, I am clipping at the digital input. (my preamps go directly to the optional A/D inputs on the Yamaha) I can see this on the digital meters on the Yamaha.

I can vary the preamp analog output, so as not to clip the digital input. But, when I do, the VU meter barely moves.
It seems to me that I want a robust analog signal going to the A/D converter on the Yamaha.
Is there any optimum here?

Ron

[Jon Moen]

There are a few different I/O cards acording to Yamaha's site. However, they all appear to have a little switch to change the input attenuation. You will have to pull the card out far enough to get at the switches. Have a look at the bottom of this .pdf document.

[Dave Boothroyd]

There are two standard settings for connections between Pre- amp devices. Professional standard kit usually expects a 10dB attenuation. (-10dB setting)
Home audio usually requires a setting of a 4dB boost (+4dB)
A 10db reduction cuts the signal to about a third of its VU meter level.
4dB boost is about half as high again as the level on your meter.
Your equipment seems to be pro gear running on the Home settings.
Does that make sense of your levels?
Cheers
Dave

[Ron Randall]

Jon,

Your reply is very helpful. I have 8 A/D inputs. My choices are +4dbV or +24dB.
I have always used the +4dbV.

I need to think on this awhile.

I had forgotten about the choices when I installed the A/D card many moons ago.

Thanks for the detail work. Much appreciated.

Ron

[Tony Prior]

the AW2816 and AW4416 are really quick to saturate above the 0 db line. All of the articles I have read about this series gave it fine reviews but they all stated that the input preamps were not HEARTY...not much forgiveness, maybe none..

the chart for the optional AD inpus is real good , I wish I had that on my AW2816.

tp

[Jon Moen]

Ron,

+24 dB (12.3 V) Max. Before Clip

+4 dBV (1.58 V) Max. Before Clip

I think the above explains it well from the chart for the 8 input A/D card.

You are feeding a "hot" signal to the input.

If you have it set to +4 then it will clip at 1.58 volts.

If you have it set to +24 then it will clip at 12.3 Volts.

In this case switching to the +24 dB setting can only make it better.

[Ron Randall]

Your info is priceless.

Easy when you have the facts.
This Forum is something else.

Ron