BDI21 DI into mixer?

[mikgag]

My current setup in our jam space has my signal from the DI out on my head into a Mackie 1604 board, then into an Audiophile 2496 card to the PC for recording. I get great levels on everything else in the room (drums,2 guitars, 3 vocals) but no matter what I adjust the input gain or slider on the board, I always seems to get a slightly distorted signal, or weak, or something I'm just not happy with. I was toying with the idea of getting a decent mic and just micing my cab, but would running the XLR out on the BDI21 into the board potentially give me a better signal? I'm thinking bass -> BDI21 ->XLR to the board + 1/4 out to amp input, setting my eq flat and using the BDI21 as a pre....are amp DI's generally crappy?

[bongomania]

Amp DI's aren't "generally" crappy, but they certainly can be. The BDI21 was designed for exactly the purpose you're describing... by Tech 21. Definitely try using it in the manner it was intended for.

[ihateusernames]

I use one like that on occasion, does exactly what you are looking for. If you want to run from the direct on the amp and can't get the signal low enough it needs to have a pad activated, either on the console or with an inline pad, HOSA has an inexpensive line of XLR pads. Have one of those and use it every show for that reason, gets the job done.

[mikgag]

Originally Posted by bongomania

by Tech 21.

ha ha.....yeah, I used to have a "real" Sansamp, but sold it (stupid) and since recently having 2 kids, another "real" one is outta the question for awhile....