Topic: Babyface pro fs, and optimizing input gain for plug ins, need help :)

Hello!

I'm loving my new Babyfrace pro fs! I'm using it with a MacBook M4Pro 24GB, and it’s working great. I’m using it in DAW mode however as Total Mix requires a level or learning commitment I’m not ready to invest momentarily big_smile.

I've entered the world of amp plug ins and I'm learning how to properly gain stage for optimal results.

As you probably know there are two competing schools of thought:

1) set interface gain to zero (so as not to overdrive the plug in gain), set the plug in internal input gain to the proper level (varies based on the plug in manufacturer, there's a table out there floating around that describes this).

-vs-

2) set proper input gain on the interface, to optimize signal to noise ratio, then note the amount of dB's of interface input gain one has dialed in, then subtract this dB level from the recommended plug in input gain level, using the internal plug in input gain.

I’ve tried method 1, and now I want to try method 2. But I’ve encountered some questions/impediments.

#1) while using the Instrument input (#3) to plug my guitar directly into the Babyface fs pro, what is the correct input gain setting, +4dB, or  -10dBV?

#2) Once I do the above, and I increase gain to a desired level, how can I tell how many dB’s of gain I’ve dialed in, given either the +4dB or -10dBV setting.

And since I have your attention,  what is the “boost” setting used for, and what setting would I use for a Mic and Line level input?


Many Thanks ahead of time!

2 (edited by waedi 2025-03-17 21:33:31)

Re: Babyface pro fs, and optimizing input gain for plug ins, need help :)

1. -10dBV

if the guitar signal is too low choose "boost" to give it the extra boost.

2. The gain knob has a number in the display zero to plus nine dB

Line level setting : +4dB

Mic input no level setting just use the input gain, depending on the signal you can enable pad to lower the signal by -11 dB.

M1-Tahoe, Madiface Pro, Digiface USB, Babyface silver and blue

Re: Babyface pro fs, and optimizing input gain for plug ins, need help :)

waedi wrote:

1. -10dBV

if the guitar signal is too low choose "boost" to give it the extra boost.

2. The gain knob has a number in the display zero to plus nine dB

Line level setting : +4dB

Mic input no level setting just use the input gain, depending on the signal you can enable pad to lower the signal by -11 dB.

Great thank you! I'll give it a spin and see how it works!
But just to clarify, the dB display is the actual/objective dB number correct? I don't have to adjust the number to take into account for the -10dBV (or +4dB) setting?

Re: Babyface pro fs, and optimizing input gain for plug ins, need help :)

The number in the display next to the gain knob shows the value of dB gain. No matter what level setting is used.

Yes, you don't have to adjust.

M1-Tahoe, Madiface Pro, Digiface USB, Babyface silver and blue

Re: Babyface pro fs, and optimizing input gain for plug ins, need help :)

waedi wrote:

The number in the display next to the gain knob shows the value of dB gain. No matter what level setting is used.

Yes, you don't have to adjust.

Superb! You just made my day, thank you again! Cheers!

Re: Babyface pro fs, and optimizing input gain for plug ins, need help :)

I think it would be easier if I didn't have to select a line level using the dropdown menu and then add gain in a second step, but could instead use the control wheel to continuously adjust the gain to a good-sounding level. What is that nice wheel on the Babyface for? Could that be a feature request?