Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
Dell, without having any experience with this converter, I wonder why the signal into your UMC404HD is so hot that it overdrives the converter preamp. Are you running a preamp between your guitar and the UMC404HD? If so, can you turn it's output gain down to a level that is acceptable to the UMC404HD's preamp?
Also - there are reports out on the web of issues with the drivers causing distortion on some computers, but not others, in case it's not a preamp being pushed too far.
Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
John,
Q1: Are you running a preamp between your guitar and the UMC404HD?
R1: No...and I would have been aware of this. Also, if I were using something prior to the interface, I would have performed the necessary testing without that device prior to the use of that device.
Q2: If so, can you turn it's output gain down to a level that is acceptable to the UMC404HD's preamp?
R2: See R1 above.
I have tested both of these interfaces on two different systems with the same end result. I have contacted Behringer - but being so BIG, I am really doubtful of any immediate response.
The guitar that I am using is an Epiphone ES-339 and which has pickups made by Glen McDougall - now sadly deceased. Also, the switch and the output jack have been replaced with Switchcraft components and the pots are by-passed. So, from pickups-to-switch-to-output-jack. This particular configuration I have been using on all of my electric guitars for over 30 years now.
Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
Sorry if it seemed like I was not giving you the technical credit you deserve. Didn't mean to.
Well... that's really weird then. That seems to imply that your pickup's signal is so strong that it's overwhelming the preamp - which seems unlikely. Those are supposed to be Midas pres, which are very highly regarded. I suppose that there's nothing left in the signal chain to point fingers at besides the preamps instrument circuit though. Have you tried using your DI? I would suppose that it would result in the same issue if the input signal from the pickups was that hot. So, if that works then that must be it (unless you're using a long hi-z cable that is passing by something with an electromagnetic field). That's all I can think to try though.
Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
John,
Yes, I tested this interface using a Radial PRO48. Even then, I have to enable the PAD on the DI to prevent the signal from clipping.
The GAIN knob on the interface defaults to 7:00 - and I have the GAIN knob set to approximately 7:02!!
I am going to be very, very interested to see what Behringer has to say - if the indeed they do get back to me.
As an aside, I would be very interested to know if using a DI is preferable to using Hi-Z in the first place? This particular "point" is what I had gleaned from a past conversation with RME.
Anyone care to comment?
Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
Quote:
Originally Posted by
mr_es335
John,
Yes, I tested this interface using a Radial PRO48. Even then, I have to enable the PAD on the DI to prevent the signal from clipping.
The GAIN knob on the interface defaults to 7:00 - and I have the GAIN knob set to approximately 7:02!!
I am going to be very, very interested to see what Behringer has to say - if the indeed they do get back to me.
As an aside, I would be very interested to know if using a DI is preferable to using Hi-Z in the first place? This particular "point" is what I had gleaned from a past conversation with RME.
Anyone care to comment?
There is nothing magical about using a DI. DI's are really only intended as a way of converting a high-impedance non-balanced signal into a low-impedance balanced signal that can be plugged into a microphone input.
A properly designed hi-z input built-in to a preamp should adequately serve the same purpose.
The key point there being adequately designed.
In the case of the Behringer preamp I wouldn't expect there to be a lot of effort put into the hi-z input circuit (Midas inspired design or not).
The entire Behringer U-PHORIA UMC404HD is only $150. (4 mic pres, A/D, D/A, headphone amp and MIDI) Even if we divide the cost as $100/$50 input to output, even generously thats still only $25/ch.
The Radial Pro48 is $100 for a single ch hi-z preamp with a low-z balanced output.
The radial costs 2/3 the price of the entire UMC404HD and is dedicated to the single task of converting a hi-z input to a balanced low-z output (no mixing, A/D, D/A, headphone Amp, MIDI). Its just the front-end preamp circuit all by itself. So, yes I would expect it to do a much better job of both impedance matching your guitar as well as supplying a clean balanced low-impedance signal for what ever signal chain you plug it into.
Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
cgrafx,
Quote:
So, yes I would expect it to do a much better job of both impedance matching your guitar as well as supplying a clean balanced low-impedance signal for what ever signal chain you plug it into.
...As always Philip, you responses are always "to the point", and indeed, always very helpful. Molte grazie!
PS: I often never consider the "price per feature" aspect and such is certainly most worthy of note.
Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
Quote:
Originally Posted by
mr_es335
So, should I therefore, use an active DI with the input set for 48v?
Yes, if it does what you need it to.
Sounds like your special humbuckers output extra hot. You'll need to account for that with correct gain staging. You could also put an attenuator in front of your Behringer interface, if you wanted. Though I've never seen a 1/4-inch to 1/4-inch (unbalanced) box.
You could probably make your own with a few resistors.
Re: OT: Hi-Z Input versus DI
Video of Glen McDougal discussing details of his Fury guitar - including the pickups:
https://youtu.be/An733uEMxyU
Sounds like they really were unique.
