003 DI inputs

[nz]

Hello,

I just wanted to clarify something regarding the 003R's DI inputs.

I have been exclusively using the 5-8 inputs as I only want to use my really high quality preamps that I have. I don't want to "double preamp" my signal by going from my external pres into inputs 1-4.

If I use the DI 1-4 inputs is that the sonic equivalent of using the line inputs of 5-8?

I haven't used them yet in DI mode. I would take it the input trim on the front would be disabled?

This would be great news as then I can have 8 channels of external preamp instead of just 4.

Any help on this would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

[flommer]

My understanding is that the DI input is just a 18db pad. It still goes through the preamp... I think if the gain knobs still work, then it is not bypassing the pre

However, if you have preamp with some serious mojo, it's sound will still shine through.. Just try it.. Let us know what you find..

I don't have the nice preamps to test this myself

[paul_g]

No, a DI (Direct Injection/Instrument) is to convert a the unbalanced signal to line level before it goes to the pre-amp. The voltage is different, thus the invention of DI boxes, in this case, Digi built one into the 003, but you have to turn it on when you use an unbalanced Tip Ring 1/4" cable from an instrument. Otherwise, w/out the DI/ you'd be converting a balanced signal (XLR) to line level. After the input (pre) all signals are line level.

Having said that, if your expensive outboard pre's have Line Level outputs, then you can run into the DI of the 003. I think to some extent you would need to "pad" your signal as it may get pretty hot. Unfortunately, the pre's on the 003 don't have a pad as found on more expensive consoles. A pad would be needed in addition to the level pots.

While I'm on the subject, the 003 does have a HP Filter, but I don't tend to use it... I'm sure it's documented somewhere but I'd like to know where the cut off is for the filter... I hate just pressing a button that says "HPF"... I'd like to know where it's starting it's cut.

But If I had some very expensive outboard pre's that weren't light pipe, I'd probably use the 5-8 inputs as they do have pads (button's beside the inputs). The other thing to consider is a Pre-Sonis Light pipe digital pre. This will give you an additional 8 inputs to the 8 that are already on the 003.

[flommer]

From the "Getting Started" Guide:

On 003 and 003 Rack, DI Inputs 1–4 support
low-level instruments and line-level instru-
ments.

They are balanced, they do have a different impedance, and they do go through the pre amps..

If your external pres have adjustable output range, you may want to set them to -10 first. +4 may be too hot..

Since you want to use external pre amps, then this will not be as ideal of a connection as the "pure" line inputs 5-8. But it may not be a deal breaker..

Try it.. Let us know if you can hear the difference..

[tamasdragon]

High-end preamps through inputs 1-4 still sound high-end. I've tried numerous times. You cannot bypass the pres, but regardless of that, leave them at the minimum, and use your outboard pres.
TD

[nz]

Originally Posted by paul_g

The other thing to consider is a Pre-Sonis Light pipe digital pre.

I am already using a Digimax 96 for my additional inputs (and a Rosetta 200 for my SPDIFs), but again, they have preamps in them. I think the only way to get around this is to get a Rosetta 800 which has 8 channels and no preamps at all, just conversion.

Thanks for all the help everybody. I really appreciate it.