Can the output of an instrument be measured?

[mrbeezroom]

I am trying to set the output levels of my active basses (using the preamp trim pots) so they are all relatively the same. My queston is, can a bass's output be measured using a multimeter or similar device?

[Jo6Pak]

Any peak-to-peak analog signal can be easily measured on an o'scope (oscilloscope). Problem with that is, the more aggressive the attack, the bigger signal it will generate, so you would need to pay careful attention to how each instrument is plucked and try to duplicate it with all of them. There may be other/better ways now (perhaps measuring the DC component), but that's how I always did it back in my Navy Avionics Technician days...

[A9X]

Because of the way a DMM samples the signal it'll be too slow and not give an accurate reading because the peak to average ratio on musical signals is too large and beyond what they're usually designed to handle unless you have a true RMS meter like one of the expensive Flukes. Best bet is to record into a soundcard and then get an RMS via some editing suite. I use a setup for measuring speakers etc, so I'm not sure if programs like Cooledit etc could do the same.

[luknfur]

Originally Posted by mrbeezroom

I am trying to set the output levels of my active basses (using the preamp trim pots) so they are all relatively the same. My queston is, can a bass's output be measured using a multimeter or similar device?

FWIW:

I don't know what the appication is but given the idiosyncrasies of the human ear if the end result is listening by the human then what better instrument than that to set it.

[mrbeezroom]

I know. I know "use your ears. . . " This thread is about finding the best starting point and avoiding large signal fluctuations to the FOH. Also, standing in front of your rig is usually not the best place to evaluate your sound in any given room. I just want to get an idea of the relative signals coming from my different basses.

[FoHBass]

If I need to check output levels, I always go direct into Sonar 4 Producer, and watch the meters. This is my main method of adjusting pickups, too. That reminds me, when I get home today, I have 2 basses and 4 or 5 guitars to adjust pickups on.

[Vandelay]

Originally Posted by mrbeezroom

I know. I know "use your ears. . . " This thread is about finding the best starting point and avoiding large signal fluctuations to the FOH.

Have you considered using a compressor? It would go a long way towards keeping your volume level consistent across your different basses.