Phantom Power
Unlike dynamic microphones, condenser microphones need to receive a DC voltage (generally 48v) from an external source before they can generate an output signal. If the condenser mic doesn’t come with its own power supply, then "Phantom Power" must be applied from the pre-amp. Pressing the "Phan" button and engaging phantom power on the DMP3 will send the necessary voltage to both of the XLR Mic Inputs. Phantom power will not affect a dynamic mic adversely, so its okay to have a dynamic mic at the XLR input while phantom power is switched on. Just to be safe, check you mic’s documentation to see if it will accept or needs phantom power.
Balanced vs. Unbalanced Outputs
A "balanced" line runs the signal on two wires of opposing polarity, as a ‘twisted pair’ surrounded by a grounded shield. Doing so, it can send a ‘hotter’ signal over a longer distance with less added noise. Using a TRS (tip-ring-sleeve, sometimes referred to as “stereo”) plug on the 1/4” outputs of the DMP3 will give you this balanced line—tip positive, ring negative, and sleeve ground. Generally speaking, if the DMP3 outputs connect to a system that accepts a balanced line at +4dB (nominal level) operating level, you should use TRS plugs on the outputs.
An unbalanced line on the DMP3 outputs connects to a 1/4” TS (tip positive, sleeve ground) plug on a shielded cable with a single conductor, and is appropriate to use when your sound card or sound system accepts a 1/4” TS plug, RCA plug, or the right or left mono side of a stereo mini-plug. Typically, the signal on unbalanced lines has an operating line level of –10dB (nominal level), though this may vary somewhat.
You may want to consult the user guide of your sound card, recording device or signal processor, mixer, or sound system if you’re not sure what type of signal it can accept. If you need to, find a primer on recording or sound reinforcement to learn more about this and the other subjects covered in this manual.
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