Questions & Answers

Why is it recommended to use the "Direct to Converter line inputs"for hooking up synthesizers?

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asked Nov 30, 2019 in PreAmps, Signal Processors and Monitoring Hardware by glennliljestrand (150 points)
Yeah, why is it recommended to use these inputs specifically for synthesizers? Can't I just use the 8 microphone XLR inputs instead if I want to? What would be the problem/difference?

2 Answers

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answered Nov 30, 2019 by matthewritenburg (17,320 points)
selected Dec 2, 2019 by glennliljestrand
 
Best answer
The problem would an impedence mismatch.  If your synth has 1/4" output sockets, they are most likely hi-impedence line-level outputs.  For the best signal response, you want to connect to the high-impedence line inputs on your converter.  XLR connections are low-impedence (mic level) connections.  Typically, you use a direct box (or other in-line barrel convertors) in between high-impedence line level connections and low-impedence XLR connections to correct for the impedence mismatch.  If your converter has combo XLR-1/4" connectors with the 1/4" line input in the center of the XLR connection, that is a high-impedence line input.  Just connect your synth to that.
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answered Feb 10, 2020 by travisfunk (920 points)

I agree with matthewwritenburg, but the DP88 does not have combo XLRs, so you'd need a DB25 breakout cable to get your synth's 1/4" connections connected. You'd utilize the "Line Inputs (Direct ADC) Bal" DB25 connection to get the line in.

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