I use an Hx Stomp with a radial JDI and everywhere the sound guys say my level is too low, but when I increase the output volume sometimes the stomp starts clipping internally.
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DI or Line ISO for Modeler Signal
- Thread starter ColonelZulu
- Start date
I have the opposite problem. I have to set my input gain on my mixer is at 0dB. I could re-do all my patches but then I’d just have to push the gain on my mixer.
Check your global settings to see if your output is set to line or instrument. Also, you can boost your signal by adjusting the output by selecting the circle at the end of your chain and adjust the dB to taste.
Final thought, is there a pad button engaged?
When using a DI?
I have it set to line and no pad on the input. I can raise the output volume but I have to raise it so much that it starts clipping on the stomp itself
Do you have any more details or anything? As mentioned by @DJWhitJr you should expect the opposite problem, the stomp can be set to be far too loud. How is it without the separate di? Just straight balanced to the mixer?
I only use a Line ISO when I’m patching into someone else’s mixer, to protect from someone accidentally sending phantom power. 90% of the time I’m running direct from my Stomp to my mixer.
I’m kinda stumped about your situation since I have the opposite problem.
That’s just because the DI reduces the signal to mic level, so I’m guessing a line isolator could work better for me
Maybe, and obviously if you are having problems then you're having problems so do what you need to do to fix them. I was another who nearly always ran my stomp straight into the board because, just the like poster above, I was nearly always the one running sound and I trusted myself. Whenever we worked with other people though I would put a DI box in between the stomp and the desk, either one of mine (usually a LBP or a Radial Stagebug) or whatever they asked me to use. AFAIK I never once had a 'level' problem. I know it doesn't work, I'm not calling you a liar, but it should work!
Maybe they’re just not used to cranking the gain so much? Idk. This matter is a bit complex for me, too many variables that I don’t fully grasp.
There should be no problem feeding a JDI a line level signal. Max input is +21dBu, which is pretty darn hot. The output is mic level.
It's possible the audio tech has the bass input on the mixer set up for line level. AFAIK with most modern digital mixers, it's simply a matter of toggling the input pad and adjust the input trimmer, which should take a matter of seconds. However the signal could be patched into a 1/4" TRS line level jack, rather than the XLR mic level input. If this is the issue, the audio tech would need to remove an adapter plug and repatch the input. Making the change would typically take less than a minute. However, it's not unusual for audio techs to resist making any sort of system configuration changes; especially if they don't have easy access to the mixer's patch bay.
I hate to see you have to buy a Line ISO, but if it's a regular problem it might be worth it. My expectation is for a pro audio company to provide the necessary interface, be it a DI or Line ISO. However, you may be dealing with a bush league audio provider.
A passive DI will drop the level a fair bit. The line isolator won't. Both will do a fine job of converting unbalanced outputs into balanced ones, and convert your 1/4" outputs to XLR, making it easy to connect to a sound system. An active DI is also an option, which will buffer the signal and provide a higher output, but often requires phantom power (though some are DC powered with a wall wart).
You don't need to get anything fancy for a line isolator, a Radial SB-6 will do the job just fine, is affordable and stereo.
The only reason not to get a line isolator would be if the output impedance of your device is high. If it is high (like the output of most guitars or basses), a DI is better.
You don't need to get anything fancy for a line isolator, a Radial SB-6 will do the job just fine, is affordable and stereo.
The only reason not to get a line isolator would be if the output impedance of your device is high. If it is high (like the output of most guitars or basses), a DI is better.
