• Registered: 2025-01-11
  • Posts: 3

Topic: Input reference level

I'm using a RME UFX III with external hardware preamps (example: Neumann U67 > API 512v preamp > UFX III balanced TRS input).

I'm not sure as to what reference level I should have my TotalMix analog input set to - Lo Gain, +4 dBu or -10 dBV?

My DAW is Logic Pro.

Any advice is appreciated!

2 Reply by ramses (edited by ramses 2025-01-11 23:38:46)

  • ramses
  • DAW Mastermind
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  • Registered: 2012-10-14
  • Posts: 13,411

Re: Input reference level

Certainly, not consumer level (-10 dBV), this would make the input too sensitive for low signals. Nothing for studio gear which is using higher studio levels.

Start with "Lo Gain" to make the input most insensitive.
This, to have more headroom, should you have a maybe too hot input signal.

Or use +4 dBu.

You have to experiment, depends on how many "juice" comes from the preamps ... its surely also configurable.
Find a good balance ...

BR Ramses - UFX III, 12Mic, XTC, ADI-2 Pro FS R BE, RayDAT, X10SRi-F, E5-1680v4, Win10Pro22H2, Cub14
  • Registered: 2025-01-11
  • Posts: 3

Re: Input reference level

ramses wrote:

Certainly, not consumer level (-10 dBV), this would make the input too sensitive for low signals. Nothing for studio gear which is using higher studio levels.

Start with "Lo Gain" to make the input most insensitive.
This, to have more headroom, should you have a maybe too hot input signal.

Or use +4 dBu.

You have to experiment, depends on how many "juice" comes from the preamps ... its surely also configurable.
Find a good balance ...

Thx!

  • Registered: 2025-01-11
  • Posts: 3

Re: Input reference level

Thx for the tips so far. After closer inspection, it looks like my input options are +13dBu or +19dBu

The mic preamps I'm using are pro quality

API 512V (x2)
Chandler LTD TG2-500 (x2)
Avedis MA5
Chandler LTD Germ 500 mkII