Need help with recording with DI on a Markbass amp

[agedhorse]

Oh really? I didn't notice that? Is it a dial?

Yes, it's something we have been trying to discuss all along.

 

[JeezyMcNuggles]

There's a level control for the DI output that will reduce the line level to zero if desired. It doesn't need switching because it's variable.

Ha! Oh yeah! It's right in front. Haha! Then what's the problem?

 

[JeezyMcNuggles]

Thank you so much. Do you also reckon that plugging into the instrument/line input with an XLR-TRS cable will work? Because when I tried the recording, I was plugging in with a TS cable and not TSR.

@agedhorse The XLR is labeled as line out. On the amp and in the manual.

@JeezyMcNuggles
The line out has a control for line level on the face of the amp.
There is no provision or control to alter this signal type to MIC.
Using the effect send on these amps could work but is an unbalanced signal . This may be noisy.
For that matter, he could use the tuner out.

I didn't see this quote before. Haha! Yeah, I notice the level knob know

 

[Bass Jones]

There's a level control for the DI output that will reduce the line level to zero if desired. It doesn't need switching because it's variable.

Is it possible (speaking generally, not specifically about the OP's equipment) for an impedance mismatch to also cause distortion even if the DI output level is low enough?

 

[agedhorse]

Is it possible (speaking generally, not specifically about the OP's equipment) for an impedance mismatch to also cause distortion even if the DI output level is low enough?

I don't think so.

 

[thebassgrognard]

This could be totally false memory, but when I bought my used Markbass amp a few years ago I think I remember that there are (for some models) some dip switches pertaining to the use of the xlr out. If this is false, then roast away, but it could provide a lead to do some research.

 

[Rip Van Dan]

Yes, it could be any of those things. You've got some sort of signal, so isn't likely to be a cable. The symptom you describe could be an overloaded input -- too much signal somewhere. If your amp truly has a line-level out, then it's likely you're overloading the input to your interface -- which you're almost certain to be doing if you're plugging a line level output into a mic level input on your interface. If it's one of the ones with a combination XLR/quarter-phone jack at the input, it may be that the XLR part is only capable of mic level and the quarter-phone plug is switchable between line-level and 'instrument' level, which is basically mic level but with a higher input impedance. Or some similar arrangement...you're looking for a line level input -- you will have to employ an adaptor to get from the XLR output to the quarter-phone input on your interface if it doesn't have some arrangement to switch the XLR input from mic level to line level.

If you just want to play or record with headphones, you could just plug directly into the instrument input on the interface and bypass the amp altogether, yes?

Yeah, that's what it sounds like. Most audio interfaces have a toggle switch or button to change from line to mic input. Make sure you have yours set to line (often displayed as "instrument"). If it still distorts badly, you can turn down the gain on the channel you're plugged into to try to clear it up or turn down the D.I. signal output if your Markbass has an adjustable DI output control. Some amps have a multi-stage switch and my Eden amps typically have a normal dial control.

What brand of audio interface are you using?

 

[Matty Koff]

My first thought has been with that amp, all he should have to do is turn the
line out down, unless his input gain is also maxed.

Am I mistaken in thinking the line out knob should be able to mute the DI signal? That's how I remember it working with my MoMark, which shares the markbass DI circuit. but, I'm using a different amp and audio interface these days.

Y'all are making me want to break it out even though it has issues just to clarify how the Line out and the attenuation knob on the front works...

 

[matan326]

Well, as it is now, it is not correct! So needs to be addressed in any case.

My supposition is that all of the combined details will address the issue:

Correct XLR female to TRS male cable. (get a good one! the example you linked looks fine)
Switch set to Line (Solo)
Adjust the line signal at the amp (CMD 102) far right.
Adjust the gain on the Solo so it shows green (not red)

* Also check the GAIN on the input channel on your software DAW (recording software) Ableton?

How are you monitoring the instrument while recording? it's possible that the distortion is in the gain stages in the software....

I missed if you mention windows or mac

ex: Invalid Link Removed

Okay so I bought the XLR - TSR cable and it works! The problem was, that I had an XLR - TS cable. Thank you!!

And to others thank you as well for your input and your time. I've learned a lot because of you.

 

[matan326]

Hi,
recently I tried recording my Markbass amp by plugging an XLR cable to the Line Out DI and then to my audio interface. When I started playing, the audio in my headphones was extremely distorted and it made all kinds of sounds that one could only imagine to be in hell.
Could this be a cable issue, amp issue, or interface issue?

Thanks a lot to anyone, who might know anything about it. Cheers.

EDIT: Issue solved.

 

[Zbysek]

Am I mistaken in thinking the line out knob should be able to mute the DI signal? .

No, you are not mistaken...

 

[Zbysek]

Am I mistaken in thinking the line out knob should be able to mute the DI signal? .

No, you are not mistaken...