Recording Tips; About Metering - Alesis X2 Reference Manual

Recording Tips

For the cleanest possible recording, the Group FADERS (or Channel FADERS if the
TAPE SENDS are being used) should be adjusted so that the level going to tape
averages 0 VU on the meters of a typical analog multitrack tape machine (or -15 dB
on a digital multitrack machine, such as the Alesis ADAT).

About Metering

The meters of the X2 are the instantaneous peak reading type, which are preferred
in digital recording where the "ideal" recording level comes close to, but never
exceeds the 16 bit maximum threshold (called 0 dBfs, for full scale). Note that "0
dB" on the X2's meters is different from "0 dB" on a digital recorder like ADAT ––
it means the output of the X2 is at nominal level (either +4 dBu or -10 dBV,
depending on the output jack). Peaks well above the "0 dB" level on the X2's meters
should be common at normal operating levels for almost all types of tape deck.
Analog tape decks typically have between 10 and 13 dB of headroom above the
nominal level, depending on the tape type and any noise reduction being used.
Meters of the tape deck will not necessarily match those of the X2 on dynamic
program material. With typical metering, analog VU meters may only read 0 dB,
even though the X2's peak meters are between +5 and +10. However, a steady-state
tone (such as that from the built-in oscillator) will read 0 dB on both the X2 and
most VU meters. Readings on combined peak/VU meters, such as those found on
semiprofessional multitracks, will vary. Take the time to learn the relationship
between the X2's meters and your deck's meters, using both steady-state tones and
dynamic material.
If signal peaks cause the record meter to vary by more than 10 dB, a limiter or
compressor such as the Alesis 3630 Stereo Equalizer, may be used on that Channel
to even out the peaks. In general, things will sound better if the meters remain at
roughly the same level throughout the recording.
To select the meter bridge mode:
1 Hold the ALL (ALT) button.
Press the DISPLAY (METER BRIDGE) button.
2
This toggles the meters between Tape Send and Tape Return mode. Two Mode LEDs on
the meter bridge indicate which mode is selected.
X2 Reference Manual
Applications
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