Volume on Fast Track II Output and Mic.

[Mahzin]

I want to know if it's dangerous set volume of output or mic. on high. I was told that I have to turn down the volumes before turn on the interface. It's possible to damage the equipment because of it? And, after the PC and the interface are turn on, can I increase the volumes or it's good to maintain a limit?

[mesaone]

The reason you turn down the levels when turning on is because you can get a loud "pop", and possibly feedback, depending on your speakers and other gear and whether you have a live microphone in the room. No damage will be done to the Fast Track. Better safe than sorry.

[Mahzin]

So, if I forgot to turn down the sound and listen a "pop" it just will make the noise, but won't damage the interface? I switch the onboard soundcard for Fast Track II, I am forcing it increasing the volume and using a lot or it's ok? And about the mic., I should turn down before conect the mic.? I still don't have a XLR mic., but will buy one soon.

[mesaone]

Yes, the interface will be fine. Just turn down the knobs. You may connect a microphone at any time, but again, turn down the knobs first.

[Mahzin]

But, after turn on the interface I can increase the volume if I want without fear of damage, is it? Can I plug the mic. and doesn't unplug anymore or I have to unplug everytime I finish my tasks with it? It's OK only turn off Phantom Power or I have to unplug?

[mesaone]

Yes, you can raise the level without damaging the interface.

You can turn phantom power on and off without damaging the interface. Make sure that your condenser mic is plugged in before turning phantom on, and make sure to turn phantom off before unplugging the mic.

[Mahzin]

It's strange that I'm working on FL Studio and 2 times appears BSOD and indicates Fast Track II with the error. I installed the driver from Avid's site not M-Audio, because Avid has the latest drivers for Fast Track II that supports Windows 8 (I'm using Windows 8.1 right now). What you think it's? I am afraid that the interface has problems, I bought it used, you think problems like that are normal or it's a sign that the interface has problems?

[Mahzin]

I discovered that with the latest drivers downloaded from avid site appears BSOD, but with the drivers from original DVD of Fast Track II it doesn't occurs.