TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Amplitude- The volume of a signal, usually measured in decibels (dB).
Boost- A +20dB boost is built into each preamplifier, allowing you to amplify a low level input signal enough to be recorded. You should have the gain knob turned completely to the left when you engage the boost, and then adjust the gain higher from there. Exercise caution when engaging the boost, as your input will be much louder with the +20dB boost engaged.
Clip, Clipping- Clipping occurs when an input level exceeds the maximum level allowed by the preamp. This is heard as harsh distortion and should be avoided as it can sometimes cause damage to speakers or headphones. A limiter can be used to aid in preventing clipping (see Limit).
Feedback- This is commonly the result of an input being fed into itself, as with the case of a microphone placed in front of the speakers it is outputting from. This creates a loud, uncontrolled signal, often very high pitched, and can cause damage to your ears as well as your speakers or headphones. Be very careful to avoid creating feedback when using microphones near any output device.
Gain- Increasing gain will amplify your input signal. The goal should be to set the gain as high as possible without clipping the preamplifier or the input in your software. Look at the meters in your software while adjusting gain to be sure that you are not clipping the input. Using a limiter will sometimes assist in this process (see Limit).
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