Connecting Forte To Loudspeakers - Focusrite Forte User Manual

Connecting Forte to loudspeakers

Forte has two stereo outputs, one for headphones at the front of the controller, the other for
connection to a studio monitoring system or mixing console. You can use either or both of these, and
derive separate mixes of inputs and DAW outputs for each. The mixes are defined in Forte Control.
Forte's rear outputs may be used to connect monitoring speakers. These are provided in variable-
level, electronically balanced form on ¼" (6.35 mm) 3-pole (TRS) jacks. Active monitors (i.e.,
modern studio monitor speakers) incorporate internal amplifiers with a volume control, and may be
connected directly. Passive loudspeakers will require a separate stereo amplifier; in this case, the
outputs should be connected to the amplifier's inputs.
POWERED
MONITORS
TRS JACK
PASSIVE
MONITORS
JACK − PHONO
Typical consumer (hi-fi) amplifiers and small powered monitors will have unbalanced inputs, either
on phono (RCA) sockets, or via a 3.5 mm 3-pole jack plug intended for direct connection to a computer.
In either case, use a suitable connecting cable with ¼" TS (2-pole) jacks at one end.
Professional power amplifiers will generally have balanced inputs (either on 3-pin XLR or 3-pole
(TRS) ¼" (6.35 mm) jack sockets); use a suitable twin-and-screen cable to connect them to the main
outputs of Forte.
The amplifier (either active speakers or separates/hi-fi) is set to give the preferred volume level.
Once set, the Forte knob is the means to control volume level.
NOTE: You run the risk of creating an audio feedback loop if loudspeakers are active at the same time
as a microphone! We recommend that you always turn off (or turn down) monitoring loudspeakers
while recording, and use headphones when overdubbing.
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