Thanks, Jeff.

OK ... but I don't think I made myself clear.  Forget about the TotalMix faders ... just consider the TotalMix input meter readouts, i.e., adjust the input level to 0 dbFS or to -18 dbFS?

1. Are these peak or RMS?

2. Since I can adjust the analog input on my mic preamps or synth outs, what is best practice to use the meters read outs.

3. Are you saying, for example, that (depending on the peak or rms question) if the TotalMix input reads out -18 dbFS and my DAW input meter fader are set to 0dbFS, that the DAW will also read out -18 dbFS?

Thank you.

Hi Daniel,

I think you must be responding to my first post, also answered by Jeff @ Synthax. I'm not asking about the faders.

Also, your comment about no general recommendation for 'translating' analog 0 db to dbFS is certainly different from what I have read. Below is an excerpt from the Sony Final Cut manual. I could find many more such recommendations if you would like me to.

"Tone on analog media formats is usually set to 0 dB (analog). You need to choose an equivalent digital level on the Final Cut Pro audio meters. The level you choose is dependent on the bit depth you are using to capture your audio, as well as how much dynamic range your audio has:

    16-bit audio: Typically, you should set a 0 dB analog tone to equal –12 dBFS digital.
    20- or 24-bit audio: You should set a 0 dB analog tone to equal –18 or –20 dBFS.
    Figure. Diagram showing setting a zero dB analog tone to equal minus twelve, minus eighteen, or minus twenty dBFS."

Also, a 'sticky' post from Gearslutz ... meaning that the engineers there find this post to be of importance.

http://www.gearslutz.com/board/so-much- … tored.html

Thank you.

Daniel,

I may lack the technical expertise to ask the question I'd like answered. I believe your advice is to leave total mix at 0 dBFS and attenuate the analog source if TotalMix shows clipping.

Also, is it correct that if both TotalMix and the DAW are set to 0 dBFS, they will show the identical reading?

Again, I think you misread me. Yes, I did say that initially, but in my second post I asked about the meter read outs disregarding the faders. You responded to my first post.

I have a large synth and sound module bank, so all of those also have volume controls on their analog outputs.

Thanks again for your prompt help!

Let me ask a different way, please.

Assuming TM metering is set to RMS and that I can adjust each input at the source, I would just like to know if (and how) I can use TM metering to set each input to reach my DAW at around -20 dBFS RMS.

I thought I was on the right track when I asked about having the fader set to 0, but you said that was irrelevant. Was that only because I didn't specify having them both set to the same meter characteristics? Or some other reason?

Since you perceive that I have misconceptions as to how the TM faders work, would you help me understand? Perhaps a reference to where it is documented in the manual. I have read it, but apparently this important concept did not sink in.

Thank you.

I would like to add that the manual clearly explains this, and also shows where to switch from Peak to RMS.

If you like to record at -15 or -18 you can use DIGICheck and set the meters in there accordingly. It even includes templates (k-system) with such values.

Hello!
I bought the FF 802 and I'd like to know if it is possibile in TotalMix to save and to know the gain level of the mic input XLR (input 9-12).
Many thanks

Many thanks for your help.
This makes no sense. Do you have any idea if in a future release this will be possible?
Thanks

Hello,

Old topic but it might be usefull, I guess.
I guess what Pegaito meant by leveling between -18 and -15 dBFS is matching the average level at +4dBu. Some people don't see the necessity... +4 dBu = 1.23 volts, which is optimum level if you use some external effect. Also it's usefull for plugin to work correctly. Not too low, not too high.

Tell me if I'm wrong. The UFX+ for example has for maximum mic input level (gain 0 dB) : +18 dBu.
0 dbfs (the maximum) = +18 dBu. So +4 dBu = -14 dbfs. (18-4)
As the dynamic range of a kick drum reach -14, -16 dbfs, it seems quite tight?

Also you migth be aware of this if you send your work to someone using another device, which have different dynamic range (from +4 dBu to 0 dbfs).