At 9:03 AM +1100 12/18/02, Simon wrote:
>
>I was wondering about a module to allow an audio signal from a
>recording device, such as a Protools interface or other pro-audio
>equipment, to be sent into and out of a motm system?
>
>What I would like is to send a +4 'pro' line level audio signal into
>the MOTM system using an xlr cable and then send it back out of the
>motm system into the +4 device.
>
>It could be used to send recorded signals from Protools into the motm
>system/format for processing and back out to be recorded into the
>Protools mix. You could also use it to send synth audio into rack
>mount effects devices and back again.
I don't have any problems doing that with MOTM the way it is now.
At 10Vp-p it's already at professional "line level". To put it another
way, it's too hot to be "-10". Ideally, you want a signal going into a
24-bit AD converter to meter at around -6dB (remember digital meters run
backwards). That is quite close to the output level of MOTM, and many AD
converters and all mixers have adjustable gain at their inputs. While the
maximum output of pro gear is greater than 13dBu, that's easily adjusted,
and many of the modules have input attenuators.
Of course, MOTM is not balanced, nor should it be. If you need balanced
you could easily build your own matchbox, buy one from Aphex, or use a
small mixer such as a Mackie 1202 right next to your modular.
>Maybe it would be better to use a high quality DI (like the Avalon U5
>DIs I already have) to get the signal back into Protools, but I would
>like an easy way to convert the xlr line level output from Protools
>to the motm level/format.
Imho, you won't gain anything from the Avalon with possible exception of
"desirable artifacts". Many of the MOTM modules use OP275's as output
amps, which you will often find on the best solid-state equipment, and are
quite capable of driving low input impedances.