User manual M-AUDIO DMP3

[. . . ] Exceptional frequency response, extremely flat throughout all frequencies. Separate low-cut filters for each channel with switch and LED indicator. VU meters for each preamp channel gives excellent visual reference of output levels. XLR 48v phantom power can be switched on or off for both mic inputs, with an LED indicator. [. . . ] 4. 5. DMP3 | User Guide 3 3 1 DMP3 Operation A preamp is a necessary component of any signal chain, when a microphone, guitar 2 4 pickup or other instrument needs an increase in gain to "line level. " The DMP3 will perform that role in your signal chain. The drawing below shows the DMP3 in use with a computer sound card, which in this case is the Delta 66 from M-Audio. It is conceivable that once the DMP3 is attached to your system and powered up, you will be plugging and unplugging different microphones and instruments. Follow this simple procedure, making sure that the gain controls on the DMP3 are at their lowest levels when attaching or changing mics or instruments. Plug in the 9v "wall wart" power supply into the wall receptacle, and the other end into your DMP3 9v power jack. Make the necessary connections from the outputs of the DMP3 to the inputs of your computer sound card, mixer (use the line level inputs), or sound system's power amp. NOTE: If your target device accepts a balanced signal either on a 1/4" TRS or XLR jack, use a TRS plug (tip-ring-sleeve, typically a stereo plug) on the outputs of the DMP3. If your target device accepts only an unbalanced line in, then use a `TS' plug (tip-sleeve, i. e. Check the documentation of your sound card or other receiving device if you are unsure. When possible, always use the balanced outputs as this will provide a quieter and hotter signal. With all volume controls at their lowest settings, turn on your DMP3, then your sound system. 3. 4 DMP3 | User Guide Setting the Gain The DMP3 provides up to 66dB of gain on the XLR and 1/4" high impedance inputs. Microphones and guitar pickups typically emit a low signal level, requiring a "pre-amp" such as the DMP3. Other instruments, such as keyboard sound modules, may also benefit from a little bit of punch from the DMP3. Plug in your mic or instrument with the gain controls turned down, then turn the gain up incrementally while testing the mic or playing the instrument. When the VU meters show activity at a fairly consistent level, you've reached a good signal level for the DMP3 (see section, "VU meters"). Some users may wish to experiment a little further to find what audibly might be referred to as a "sweet spot. " Note that when the "clip" LED lights, it is indicating that the signal is at least 4dB below clipping. Let your ears be the judge, but when the clip LED lights and stays lit, you are approaching or have reached distortion in your DMP3 signal. NOTE: You must also consider the level that is being sent from the DMP3 to your recording device, sound card input, mixer or sound system. Check the input meters at the receiving device and make sure that they are neither too low nor clipping (too `hot'). You may be able to adjust the input level or operating line level of this device, otherwise an adjustment in gain on the DMP3 may be necessary. Sound cards and other recording devices may or may not have an input level adjustment. If your recording device (tape recorder, computer & sound card, etc. ) does not provide input level adjustments, then the signal level that you use to record will rely totally on your source (voice/mic, guitar/instrument, etc. ), and the level you set on the DMP3. If your recording device does provide input level adjustments, then we suggest using a unity gain setting as a starting point. [. . . ] Product features, specifications, system requirements and availability are subject to change without notice. Avid, M-Audio and DMP3 are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Avid Technology, Inc. All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. 8 DMP3 | User Guide M-Audio USA 5795 Martin Rd. , Irwindale, CA 91706 M-Audio Germany Kuhallmand 34, D-74613 Ohringen, Germany Technical Support web . www. m-audio. com M-Audio U. K. Floor 6, Gresham House, 53 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1LA, United Kingdom M-Audio Canada 1400 St-Jean Baptiste Ave. [. . . ]