Embarrassing question

[MAXTHEDOG]

Hi All,
I'm embarrassed to ask this but I've completely lost all sense of logic. I've got a Focusrite 18i20 I/F and an Ashdown RM500 combo. I've been using the RM's DI out into input 1 on the 18/20.
My question is:
Should I have the 18/20 input switched to line or instrument? I've checked both manuals but they don't seem to use the same units - Ashdown = xVU, 18/20 = xdB. The Ashdown manual states the DI out is suitable for ' connecting straight into your mixer' or some such but gives no hint at mic/line/pad etc settings.
I've gotta say I find switching the 18/20 to instrument seems to give the best results, but is it technically correct.
I've never used a DI out (keys player till recently) before so until I did this I just assumed it was another name for line out.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Regards,
MTD.

 

[agedhorse]

Instrument level is probably closer to ideal than line level for your amp.

 

[MAXTHEDOG]

Thanks Agedhorse. My sanity is restored!

 

[beans-on-toast]

The Focusrite will show an overload if the input is too hot. You want the input signal level as hot as possible without going into the red. A flash once in a while is fine.

 

[MAXTHEDOG]

Hi Beans on Toast,
Thanks, I know that. But the trouble is, with both settings I can get the o/l led to light. Maybe I should have added that the bass is active into the 'active' I/p on the Rm.
Cheers,
MTD.