Rec. through a USB interface and hearing myself through my amp/cab

[basschanges]

Hi all, another probably dumb question from this recording newbie. I want to record my bass signal directly into my computer through a usb interface, while also hearing myself through my amp/cab rig.

I tried directing the output of my interface to the input on my amp (TH 500) and it sounded awful, the line was full of noise at all freq. I was using TRS cables. Then I tried putting the send line into the input of the usb interface and the sound was less degraded, but still low-fi and had too much noise.

Right now I think I have two options. I could either buy a DI box and run the balanced out to the interface and the unbalanced out to the amp/cab, or I could try running the amp's XLR out to the usb interface input.

I'm just looking for some confirmation as to whether I'm on the right track. I don't have studio monitors yet and don't like recording through headphones. I like the sound of my rig.

 

[bahia0019]

The XLR is a DI, so no need to buy one. You can go straight to your USB device. You'll hear your cab, and record at the same time.
Easy peasy.

 

[basschanges]

Thanks so much for the response! I just have to buy an XLR cable. Sweet!

 

[bahia0019]

Just looked at that TH500. That's a nice amp! I like how you have the option to go Pre or Post on the DI. My Orange Terror is fixed Pre (I think).

 

[basschanges]

Yea I find it's a great amp for the money. Nice mix between modern and vintage warmth with the Aguilar 4 10 cab. I hope this works. I don't know why running the output from the USB interface to the input on the amp using a balanced TSR cable produced so much noise. What you say makes sense and I'll try it first thing tomorrow.

 

[jazzsoul]

The XLR is a DI, so no need to buy one. You can go straight to your USB device. You'll hear your cab, and record at the same time.
Easy peasy.

That´s right! That is the best way to record your bass, because you can also use the preamp of your bass amp.

 

[basschanges]

god if I had a penny for every penny this forum has saved me....oh wait, I do!

 

[Big Hoss]

Without having info on your USB interface, it is hard to say what the issue is... Assuming it has an XLR input though, I would go from the XLR out on your amp to the XLR input on your interface, or mixer / interface etc...

Mind you, you are running a MUCH nicer amp than I am, but my rig goes like this...

Guitar cable from bass to input on amp (Crate BX100).
XLR from XLR out on amp to 1/4" mono on mixer. Main on amp controls volume from cab, and mixer controls level going to interface.
USB Audio interface connections between interface and mixer with stereo RCA cables.

I can play with the mains up and hear through the cab, play with the mains down and mixer phones / control room volue up and hear through my phones, and both ways I can record. A straight interface won't do that for you.