Universal Audio Volt 1 Hardware Manual page 6

A microphone is typically connected with an XLR connector, and
an instrument or line level signal is connected with a ¼" (6.35
mm) TS or TRS plug.
Preamp gain and impedance automatically adjusts for line or mic
signals, based on whether the plug is XLR or ¼", along with the
state of the INST button.
Press the INST button to toggle the impedance and gain of the
line input to accommodate a Hi-Z instrument, such as an electric
guitar or bass.
Tip: The Vintage Preamp can be used on mic, line, and
instrument inputs.
BALANCED AND UNBALANCED CONNECTIONS
The line inputs on Volt are balanced when connected with
•
TRS connectors to balanced equipment.
Use TRS (balanced) audio cables for the best results with
•
balanced audio sources. Balanced equipment uses three
conductor wiring (via TRS or XLR connectors) to reduce
interference and electrical noise, and to provide better
audio quality over longer cable runs. Use TS (unbalanced)
cables for instruments that are not balanced, such as an
electric guitar or bass, or an unbalanced synth or sound
module. TS connections may also be suitable for shorter
input cables, where electrical interference noise may not
be an issue.
(2) Gain Knob
This knob adjusts the preamp gain for the microphone,
instrument, or line level device attached to the input.
For optimum gain, rotate the knob to adjust the input signal level
while monitoring the source that is connected, so the input meter
shows signal but does not light red. The input LED lights red when
the input signal is near 0 dB.
Tip: Clipping occurs when the signal is overloaded. When clipping
happens, the top of the waveform is squared off, creating
distortion that may be unpleasant. Clipping has creative uses, but