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Recording
in the Console view. To adjust the input levels, you must use your sound
cardÕs software mixer program (or the Windows 95, 98 or NT mixer) or
an external hardware mixer for certain sound cards.
The audio meters indicate the volume at which the audio will be
recorded, in units called decibels (dB). The meter values range from
-90dB (soft) to 0dB (loud). To maximize the dynamic range of your
recording, you want to set the levels as high as possible without
exceeding 0dB.
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.
Level meter
Clipping indicator
Note to Experts:
Because Pro Audio 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 Pro Audio.
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