Chapter 8: Level Setting Procedure; Introduction; Level Setting Procedure - Mackie DL1608 Reference Manual

Chapter 8: Level Setting Procedure

Introduction

If you're reading this front to back, now seems like a great time to discuss how to set the levels, as we just
completed chapters 3 and 4 (which dealt with the hardware) and chapters 7 and 8 (which detailed the
channels strips and master fader). However, if you didn't read those chapters, already have a grip on the
mixer and Master Fader app and just want to learn how to set the levels, this is the place...either way, let's go!

Level Setting Procedure

(1) Phantom Power — If any connected mics require an extra 48V of power, engage
the phantom power switch on the rear panel of the mixer.
(2) Let There Be Rock — Use your voice, play the instrument, or play the line-level
source at the same volume as it would be during normal use...and keep it going!
Step 3
(3) Raising Gain and Watching Meters — Turn the gain knob clockwise until
the input meters bounce between green and yellow, the colors of our beloved
hometown Seattle Supersonics [RIP]. The accompanying LED will illuminate
green (to indicate signal).
This same LED may illuminate red (to indicate clipping). Clipping creates unde-
sirable distortion and should be avoided at all costs. If this LED illuminates red
frequently, turn the gain down.
(4) The Raising of the Fader, Part I — Raise the channel fader to 0 dB.
(5) Rinse and Repeat — Repeat steps 2-4 for each channel with signal.
Step 4
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