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Mono, Stereo & Hi-Z Instrument Inputs
This week we’re taking a different approach, as some bigger projects are in the works. We’re looking again at viewer questions that have come in on the previous Flow 8 mixer videos. There will be another FLOW 8 video coming out in the next few weeks. I that one, we’ll go over all of the firmware updates and upgraded features since the start of 2021. Many of the questions that you’ve asked in the comments will be addressed directly in that video. They have been great questions, so keep them coming!
The questions we’re looking at today are simple, but important ones for anyone looking to use this mixer fully. The 1/4″ inputs are going to be important for a lot of desktop users for sure. A number of you have already asked for clarity on how they work with mono and stereo sources. In addition, there are questions about the Hi-Z inputs and plugging instruments in directly.
Plenty of discussion has taken place online on the different approaches to taking direct signals from instruments without amplification. However confusing, all sorts of devices exist with specific instruments and scenarios in mind, or with a certain sound sought after. Direct boxes of all flavors too, compulsory in certain situations, and unnecessary or detrimental to the instrument’s sound in others. It isn’t hard to see how confusion arises when a small mixer says it’s okay to plug right in without any of that.
What do you use?
Check out the video and leave any questions you have so we can get them answered together. Let me know how you like to track instruments, what DI or methods do you use? I’ve linked a few below that have worked well for musicians I’ve worked with over the years. Read more about high and low impedance signals and how we work with them from this paper from Whirlwind. Sound on Sound published a good article I remember reading in 2003 on understanding impedance in pro audio gear through the years. Amazingly, they are still hosting it on their current site.
| Quality 1/4″instrument cables |
| Radial Studio Guitar Interface with Drag Control |
| Radial Dragster Load Correction for direct instruments |
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