003 Rack DI inputs as line level

[littlegreenmen13]

Good afternoon,

I currently have a Digi 002 which specifically says that inputs 1-8 can handle line level via the balanced 1/4" connections. I know the 003 Rack+ has a section for mic pres for inputs 1-8 and a separate line level section for inputs 1-8. On the 003 Rack (non plus version) the 1/4" inputs on inputs 1-4 say DI while channels 5-8 say they for line level inputs. Is is possible to connect line level (external mic pres) to the 1/4" connections on channels 1-4? Are these balanced inputs? I didn't know if there was a difference between DI and line level in regards to connecting an external mic pre. Any and all advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you and have a great day.

[albee1952]

Pretty sure those DI inputs can handle line level fine. They are probably made with a higher input impedance, so as to not load down the pickups of whatever instrument you plug into them, but today's solid state circuits are more forgiving than the old days of 600 ohm circuits that required a terminator or a perfect impedance match to sound right. Plug in and turn those GAIN knobs all the way down, and you should be good to go The 003R(non + version) has switches on the back for 5 thru 8 and those should be set to +4(unless you can't get a decent level that way).

[Siege Recordings]

I use the DI inputs for line level all the time with no problems, I actually prefer them to using 5 - 8 as you get to use the gain pot for a bit of extra boost for low level signals (such as from my novation A-station synth). There seems to be no audible degradation to the sound, although someone might be able to pull out some tech specs proving otherwise!

[albee1952]

Originally Posted by Siege Recordings

I use the DI inputs for line level all the time with no problems, I actually prefer them to using 5 - 8 as you get to use the gain pot for a bit of extra boost for low level signals (such as from my novation A-station synth). There seems to be no audible degradation to the sound, although someone might be able to pull out some tech specs proving otherwise!

5 thru 8 are designed more for bringing in line level sources that have their own level controls(like external preamps). DI inputs with GAIN would be the traditional input to use for most any keyboard or sound module

[littlegreenmen13]

Thanks everyone for the responses. It sounds like it would be just fine plugging mic pres into channels 1-4 as long as I turn the gain on the 003 all the way down. If I plug in a synth then it would be ok to use the gain knob. Thank you again. Have a great weekend.

[albee1952]

Originally Posted by littlegreenmen13

Thanks everyone for the responses. It sounds like it would be just fine plugging mic pres into channels 1-4 as long as I turn the gain on the 003 all the way down. If I plug in a synth then it would be ok to use the gain knob. Thank you again. Have a great weekend.

You got it

[Lqoau]

I think I might be having a problem with this, in regard to my Tascam TA-1VP. I get lots of loud fuzz when trying to record vocals, which may be clipping?? I am using TRS to XLR cables from the VP to 003 inputs 1 and 2. Is this the problem-- should I be using TRS to TRS cables, either in the "DI' input or in inputs 5-6 instead??

I have gain knob turned down on 003 but problem persists.

Using: PT 8.0 LE, Windows XP, 003, Perception 220 condenser mic

Thanks in advance,

Colin

[Siege Recordings]

Hi Lqoau.

I use TRS to XLR cables into mic inputs 1-4 often, it needs some level setting, but should not cause excess noise if the gain is right...

If you do not set the input to DI, you'll be using the mic preamps, which might explain the clipping. if your input source is low level, then by all means use the mic pre's for a bit of extra boost though.

You should always use balanced cables, get into the habit of using them for every connect (except only for guitar DI's).....

[albee1952]

Line level signals should NOT go into the 003 xlr inputs. Those are mic level only(or did I misread your use of TRS-XLR cables?)

[Siege Recordings]

Hi Albee, I know that the mic inputs are really for mic level signals, but I have had success using them for low level line signals. the gain is hot, but if set right will not clip.

I started to do it when i did not have the right cables one night to go into the DI inputs. plugged in, turned gain down - all good!