Mbox Mini Knob Gain problem

[ManuVale]

Hi, I know this is an old thread but I just came up having the same problem. Since this discussion seems to be still open, I am wondering if someone came up with a solution. Thanks for any hint. Cheers

[Darryl Ramm]

Originally Posted by ManuVale

Hi, I know this is an old thread but I just came up having the same problem. Since this discussion seems to be still open, I am wondering if someone came up with a solution. Thanks for any hint. Cheers

Solution to what problem? The most likely issue in this thread is user experience level with low-output mics, mic use technique, and dealing with cheap low-gain/not great mic preamps etc. There is unlikely anything just broken that needs to be fixed with hardware or software.

What exact problem are you having? output from the mic sounds too low? Not seeing the input track meter level you expect? You monitoring through Pro Tools or hardware monitoring? into what monitors or headphones?

What you are recording with what exact mic, where/how the mic is placed etc. What input levels you are seeing on Pro Tools meters (you should *not* be aiming to clip the red, nothing wrong with say tracking at -20dBFS)?

If the mic signal is genuinely too low for the preamp gain and you cannot improve levels by placement/technique etc. then you can look at an external preamp or booster like a Cloud Lifter. If the mic is a condenser then check the phantom power voltage... but I'll bet it's more likely a low-sensitivity dynamic mic.

[ManuVale]

Hi Darryl, I do not have problems in recording. The input level is ok. I was just wondering why the signal jumps so drastically after the gain knob has been opened more than 3/4. Is this a normal behaviour of the interface or is this something which needs to be repaired?

[Darryl Ramm]

Originally Posted by ManuVale

Hi Darryl, I do not have problems in recording. The input level is ok. I was just wondering why the signal jumps so drastically after the gain knob has been opened more than 3/4. Is this a normal behaviour of the interface or is this something which needs to be repaired?

Nope that is working as (poorly) designed. But you do not want to be running these cheap preamps near their max gain anyhow because they will sound horrible.