CAKEWALK SONAR User Manual page 157

Volume Fader
When the audio level exceeds 0dB, some of the audio information is lost. This is known as overload.
Many sound cards use clipping to deal with an overloaded signal, but clipping can distort the audio
signal. As a result, you should avoid letting the meter level exceed 0dB.
Note to Experts:
Because SONAR is a digital recorder, a level of 0dB indicates digital zero.
Digital distortion will occur at 0dB. You will not get analog compression or
warmth from pushing the input levels. If you are transferring data from a
DAT or another device, you may want to calibrate the input levels of your
sound card with the output levels of other devices in your studio. This will
ensure that 0dB on one unit will appear as 0dB in SONAR.
To Check the Input Levels
1. In the Track view, choose the inputs for the tracks you want to record, and arm the tracks for
recording. Make sure that the Show/Hide All Meters button at the top of the Track view is enabled.
2. The default meter range is from 0 dB to -60 dB. To change the range, right-click on the meter and
choose a new range from the menu.
3. Perform at the loudest level at which you plan to record.
Watch the meters respond. Increase the input volume as high as possible without ever letting the
meters move all the way to 0dB, even for an instant, or letting the Clipping indicator turn red. If
either of these things happen, reduce the input volume just enough to avoid them during the entire
performance. Note that some kinds of audio, such as percussive or plucked musical instruments,
can produce very short, high-level "transients" when struck or plucked aggressively, which can lead
to clipping if the input volume is set too high. Consider the possibility of these transients when
examining the meters and setting your record level.
Note
: If the Clipping indicator is illuminated, click on it to reset.
Once you have set your sampling rate and input levels, you are ready to start recording. If the meters do
not move, check your sound card software's mixer program and make sure that you have the proper
input enabled for recording.
Clipping indicator
Meter
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