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Posted by: Phil66 Feb 12 2016, 02:12 PM

Hello folks,
Following on from http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=55150 thread which is basically becoming a thread about setting up a whole home studio I'd like to ask your opinion on which audio interface to buy.
I want to be able to record two mics and a direct guitar at the same time, a reamping option would be nice but not vital.
I am currently using a Presonus mic preamp, if the new interface can do as good job then I can sell the Presonus unless you advise otherwise.
Cost under or around £300
Thanks for your help folks
Phil

Posted by: Mertay Feb 12 2016, 02:50 PM

Most affordable I guess would be a 4 input behringer soundcard. I did some recording with a 2 input model and it was good.

The computer was a mac so I don't know if it has any issues with pc but the latency,stability on mac was good. It uses midas preamps which I personally like (from their consoles). On home, the preamps were strong enough to drive sm57's with the amp being not so loud (was an apartment and was late at night).

Can't comment much on the long run if it will last long but though being a behringer it wasn't crappy could you give a shop link you usually buy from? it would be easier for us to see a list of options.

Posted by: Caelumamittendum Feb 12 2016, 03:19 PM

Maybe I've misunderstood something, but I can highly recommened the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. I was very happy with it, untill my USB hub burned the thing twice. Now I've got a Presonus Audiobox 22VSL, which also does the job.

Posted by: yoncopin Feb 12 2016, 04:07 PM

I use the http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Scarlett6i6?adpos=1t1&creative=102358246561&device=c&matchtype=b&network=g&gclid=CObBpIK_8soCFdRZhgodojoG2w. It has lots of input and routing options, I expect it'll meet my needs for a very long time.

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 12 2016, 04:40 PM

QUOTE (yoncopin @ Feb 12 2016, 03:07 PM)

Posted by: AK Rich Feb 12 2016, 06:08 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 12 2016, 06:40 AM)

Thanks I'm looking for something to last

Shops that I use because of price or good customer care are below.
http://www.thomann.de/es/index.html
http://www.andertons.co.uk/
https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/
http://www.juno.co.uk/

Also I don't mind paying more if something is £500 if the extra cost is worth it for a quality build and good features

Thank you for your help folks

Posted by: Mertay Feb 12 2016, 06:28 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 12 2016, 03:40 PM)

Thanks I'm looking for something to last

Shops that I use because of price or good customer care are below.
http://www.thomann.de/es/index.html
http://www.andertons.co.uk/
https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/
http://www.juno.co.uk/

Also I don't mind paying more if something is £500 if the extra cost is worth it for a quality build and good features

Thank you for your help folks

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 12 2016, 07:18 PM

Thanks Mertay,
Really appreciate your help mate
I'll have a good look and create a shortlist in the next few days
Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Feb 12 2016, 07:50 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 12 2016, 06:18 PM)

Thanks Mertay,
Really appreciate your help mate
I'll have a good look and create a shortlist in the next few days
Cheers

Posted by: PosterBoy Feb 15 2016, 01:29 PM

Phil Look at Dv247.com too They're very good

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 15 2016, 03:13 PM

Yeah thanks I've used them before

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 15 2016, 10:24 PM

Ok,

Thanks for you help folks.

My current shortlist is

http://www.andertons.co.uk/usb-interfaces/pid19329/cid712/roland-ua1010-octa-capture-usb-audio-interface.asp which comes with http://www.roland.co.in/products-2/production-plus-pack-cakewalk-production-software/ (I always liked my old Cakewalk DAW). http://www.roland.co.uk/products/octa-capture/ is a page with some videos of the product. I don't know about all of this but I'm hoping someone can advise as I want this to be as future proof as things can be these days.

and

http://www.andertons.co.uk/usb-interfaces/pid39715/cid712/iconnectivity-iconnectaudio4-audio-38-midi-interface.asp If you look http://www.iconnectivity.com/iConnectAUDIO4plus and select the video tab there are great videos for this product.

Due to my limited knowledge of these things I'm asking for your help, I know both will cover me for my immediate needs but it would be great if you can take a look for me and explain why you think I should have which one you think I should have.

This is a toss of the coin for me at the moment

Thank you so much for you help, I really really appreciate it.

Cheers folks, no rush, I want to be sure it's a good purchase.

Posted by: Mertay Feb 16 2016, 12:20 AM

Since I have no experience of the iconnectivity (as its not sold here too) I'll leave it to other members, also I never really got into using ipad etc. for recording.

I'm very familiar with the 2 input version which I mentioned before of the roland and really liked it.

The only downside I know is it doesn't work well with windows xp (Worked flowlessly with win7 upgrade on the same machine) and didn't work well with my friends mac (though I wasn't there when it was installed). I checked some user reviews and negative comments were rare (pretty good since its been 4 years since its release), one obviously had system issues (maybe graphics card, I'm not sure) and one incidated that increasing preamp gain will cause noise while recording. It does state this on its manual but I don't think this will be a problem for you as you won't need to do that anyway.

As for the sound, features...reviews are great. My experience was very positive with the 2 channel version, preamps were very quiet yet not weak sounding.

It has 8 inputs with preamps, this alone means its ment for small studios (8 mic.s is sort of standard from drum recording). Reviewers were also mostly studio owners so these are strong indications the unit is dependable. Been out for 4 years so to me its a proven unit, which means lesser chance of bumping into software problems depending on the computer (though there's always a risk).

As for home use, a friend of mine bought a soundcard and waiting for it to arrive that has more than 4 inputs. Sure like you he'll probably use 3 at the same time most but has a few guitar, keyboard, bass guitar and mic.s. He simply payed more for more inputs so he didn't have to keep connect/disconnect cables...hopefully he won't get lost between all the routing

These are the 2 best reviews I found specially for the experienced members here to check;

http://tapeop.com/reviews/gear/82/octa-capture-usb-20-audio-interface/
http://www.harmonycentral.com/forum/forum/Forums_General/pro-reviews/30964656-roland-octa-capture-interface--30964656

Phil66, could you remind me why 2 inputs aren't enough? asking cause the UA-55 seems less than half price, I just want to be sure

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 16 2016, 05:50 AM

The iconnectivity is quite spiff and has endless routing to offer but it may be a bit much more than is neeeded for you at this point. The Roland products are very solid and I've heard generally good things about them so the four or 8 input would be a fine way to go The 8 input has a handy rack mount option so you can install it in a rack and carry it with you if you like. Or leave the rack ears off and use it on the desktop.

That said, you don't have to take advantage of all the iconnectivity can offer in order to get a lot out of it. Just using it as a usb 2.0 4 inputs on the front interface is nice It can also let you expand later by using ipad/ipod as an external processing unit, eg. running BIAS on your ipad/ipod/iphone to process guitars while you record to computer. THe preamps are nice as well. I've been using the iconnectivity as my primary interface ever since I got it and it's been great. I've not turned it off yet so it's been running solid for several months without a break. I like to burn in gear to see if it will fail and nothing yet.

QUOTE (Mertay @ Feb 15 2016, 06:20 PM)

Since I have no experience of the iconnectivity (as its not sold here too) I'll leave it to other members, also I never really got into using ipad etc. for recording.

I'm very familiar with the 2 input version which I mentioned before of the roland and really liked it.

The only downside I know is it doesn't work well with windows xp (Worked flowlessly with win7 upgrade on the same machine) and didn't work well with my friends mac (though I wasn't there when it was installed). I checked some user reviews and negative comments were rare (pretty good since its been 4 years since its release), one obviously had system issues (maybe graphics card, I'm not sure) and one incidated that increasing preamp gain will cause noise while recording. It does state this on its manual but I don't think this will be a problem for you as you won't need to do that anyway.

As for the sound, features...reviews are great. My experience was very positive with the 2 channel version, preamps were very quiet yet not weak sounding.

It has 8 inputs with preamps, this alone means its ment for small studios (8 mic.s is sort of standard from drum recording). Reviewers were also mostly studio owners so these are strong indications the unit is dependable. Been out for 4 years so to me its a proven unit, which means lesser chance of bumping into software problems depending on the computer (though there's always a risk).

As for home use, a friend of mine bought a soundcard and waiting for it to arrive that has more than 4 inputs. Sure like you he'll probably use 3 at the same time most but has a few guitar, keyboard, bass guitar and mic.s. He simply payed more for more inputs so he didn't have to keep connect/disconnect cables...hopefully he won't get lost between all the routing

These are the 2 best reviews I found specially for the experienced members here to check;

http://tapeop.com/reviews/gear/82/octa-capture-usb-20-audio-interface/
http://www.harmonycentral.com/forum/forum/Forums_General/pro-reviews/30964656-roland-octa-capture-interface--30964656

Phil66, could you remind me why 2 inputs aren't enough? asking cause the UA-55 seems less than half price, I just want to be sure

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 16 2016, 08:14 AM

Thank you gentlemen,

I'll take a look when I get home this evening.

Mertay, two inputs are probably enough for now BUT, I'm thinking it might not be in a few months, we were also discussing a while back about recording direct from GT-001, mic and xlr out from Peavey all at the same time and blending the sounds so I thought if ever I want to experiment when I have one of those days when I want to fiddle around then I can

Cheers and thank you again.

For the record, I'm leaning towards the iConnectivity at the moment.

Posted by: Tom51 Feb 16 2016, 09:18 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 16 2016, 08:14 AM)

Posted by: Mertay Feb 16 2016, 09:19 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 16 2016, 07:14 AM)

Thank you gentlemen,

I'll take a look when I get home this evening.

Mertay, two inputs are probably enough for now BUT, I'm thinking it might not be in a few months, we were also discussing a while back about recording direct from GT-001, mic and xlr out from Peavey all at the same time and blending the sounds so I thought if ever I want to experiment when I have one of those days when I want to fiddle around then I can

Cheers and thank you again.

For the record, I'm leaning towards the iConnectivity at the moment.

Posted by: Lester Feb 16 2016, 10:04 AM

I'm afraid I don't know too much about hardware and things
But what I can say is that I own a Tascam US-144 and it works great and has been working great for years
Although I probably don't know half of it's actual functions

Posted by: Darius Wave Feb 16 2016, 04:17 PM

I usually prefer Presonus (mostly older series of firewire connection models) or Focusrite. Scarlet's preamps won a few engeneers prizes.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 16 2016, 08:26 PM

Again well said! I love the presonus mixer interfaces and had one a bit back. Didn't need 16 inputs though. The smaller interfaces they make are also quite good. They have a long history of making very high end mixing desks and other gear. So they are a great vendor in general with long history of good support on their devices. Unlike ALESIS and others who just drop a product and stop making drivers for it. There was a hitch when firewire stopped working briefly when Apple released their new OS and folks had to make new drivers for firewire. The new focusrite stuff is also quite good and works great over USB. I'm a fan of firewire, but sadly it looks as if vendors are stepping away from it and moving to usb and for macs moving toward thunderbolt.

QUOTE (Darius Wave @ Feb 16 2016, 10:17 AM)

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 16 2016, 08:47 PM

Been looking and another thing popped into my head.
What about if I want to use an SM57 and another mic but the other mic needs phantom power? I'll need to be able to switch phantom power independently.
I know you probably think I'm going OTT but I'm trying to cover all realistic bases for home use. As my playing skills improve, I'm going to want to experiment more and this is the kind of equipment I like to get to know and not keep on swapping out.
I also want four inputs on the front due to where this is going to be located, I don't want to keep hunting around the rear for inputs
Cheers folks:)

Posted by: Mertay Feb 16 2016, 10:23 PM

Phantom power won't damage a dynamic mic. , its actually pretty common for an engineer to accidentally apply it and I haven't heard any cases where the mic. was damaged.

If you get enough cables, just plug them on the rear of the soundcard but find a place for the tip of the cables easily accessable to you and tag the input number on them. That way since you'll have enough inputs and readily plugged cables, you won't have to disconnect them from the soundcard.

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 16 2016, 10:57 PM

Thanks Mertay,
Good idea with the cables
I've gone off the I connectivity unit a little bit, I'm not keen on multi function knobs and that one you have to select an input then apply gain, I'd rather have a knob for each input, no need to fanny about.
Cheers Mertay
I'm not going to rush this one, the more I look the more questions will come to mind

Posted by: Mertay Feb 17 2016, 08:20 AM

Cool, my hands-on experience is limited as there are so many models these days but let me know if you have any questions while checking options

Posted by: Darius Wave Feb 17 2016, 11:15 AM

QUOTE (Mertay @ Feb 16 2016, 10:23 PM)

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 17 2016, 07:41 PM

What about this

http://tascam.com/product/us-4x4/

http://www.gak.co.uk/en/tascam-us-4x4-usb-audio-midi-interface/104280?gclid=CNrDvb-4_8oCFQ0SGwod9V0PeA

I know this doesn't have independent phantom power but could I use my Presonus Tube Pre should I need phantom power and then go from that into the Tascam without the phantom power on?

I think it's between this and the Roland, the Roland hasn't got independent gain for each input but it has auto sens. Is this a good feature or a gimmick?

Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Feb 17 2016, 08:56 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 17 2016, 06:41 PM)

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 17 2016, 10:03 PM

Thanks Mertay,

The Presonus has an unbalanced jack output as well as the the balanced. Could I put the mic into the Presonus and the unbalanced out into the normal jack input on the interface?

Cheers for you help mate,

Posted by: Mertay Feb 17 2016, 10:48 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 17 2016, 09:03 PM)

Thanks Mertay,

The Presonus has an unbalanced jack output as well as the the balanced. Could I put the mic into the Presonus and the unbalanced out into the normal jack input on the interface?

Cheers for you help mate,

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 18 2016, 06:52 AM

If possible I'd got for the Octa. The tascam is just a bit more lower end and the octa is a really nice unit. So I'd say go Roland if budget permits Auto sense is a bit gimmicky but handy way to keep your signals from clipping I think. But I also think you can turn it off if you like if memory serves

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 18 2016, 08:05 AM

Thanks Todd,

I'll look into it a bit more

Cheers


UPDATE: Now, this opens up a whole other dilemma For only another £130 I can get an Eleven Rack. What you all reckon??????

Thank you

Posted by: Mertay Feb 18 2016, 10:18 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 18 2016, 07:05 AM)

UPDATE: Now, this opens up a whole other dilemma For only another £130 I can get an Eleven Rack. What you all reckon??????

Thank you

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 18 2016, 10:22 AM

Thanks Mertay,

What about http://www.akaipro.com/product/eiepro ? Looks like something out of a fighter plane but seems to have everything.

I'll keep it more simple now then.

Cheers for you help

Posted by: Mertay Feb 18 2016, 10:37 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 18 2016, 09:22 AM)

Thanks Mertay,

What about http://www.akaipro.com/product/eiepro ? Looks like something out of a fighter plane but seems to have everything.

I'll keep it more simple now then.

Cheers for you help

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 18 2016, 12:06 PM

Thanks Mertay, great advice.
Bar set lower and this is £50 less than amazon
https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/external-audio-interface/behringer-u-phoria-umc404hd-audio-interface?gclid=CKTt-t6UgcsCFa0W0wodCz4IuQ
At this price it gives me chance to experiment work more inputs over time and then I haven't lost much if I want to change in a year or so.
I still like the Roland though but this may be all I need.
Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Feb 18 2016, 01:30 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 18 2016, 11:06 AM)

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 18 2016, 03:28 PM

Thanks Mertay,
It seems to cover my needs for now and a killer price.
Let's see if Todd thinks it's a winner.
Cheers

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 19 2016, 03:48 AM

Now that is a pickle It would come down to one thing. Are you now or do you plan to play live? The 11 rack makes a great live rig It makes a great rig in general and can record fx tone, and dry tone to separate tracks so you can "re-amp" the clean recording back through you amp and bounce it to a new track recorded through the mic input on the front of the 11 rack. But it's not quite the same as having the octa capture where you can just record everything in one pass including two mics on your cab.

So if you are gigging, planning on gigging soon, 11 rack. If you are planning on recording/writing for a while, octa or iconnectivity or one of the 4 channel focusrite units would be perfect

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 18 2016, 02:05 AM)

Thanks Todd,

I'll look into it a bit more

Cheers


UPDATE: Now, this opens up a whole other dilemma For only another £130 I can get an Eleven Rack. What you all reckon??????

Thank you

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 19 2016, 09:35 AM

Thanks Todd,
No, I'm not planning on playing live, don't have the skills yet anyway but if I did have the skills I would be more of a studio musician rather than a performer
I'm struggling to find that Behringer unit in stock anywhere. I'll look deeper into the other units.
Did you find the iConnectivity unit to be a ball ache having to use the touch panel to select tracks to alter gain rather than have an independent knob for each? I know at first this kind of thing seems great, but once the novelty has worn off it can become a ball ache.
Cheers

UPDATE:
UPDATE:
Ultra shortlist. Please watch but don’t take the cost of each unit into account. Which do you think is the best, and why? Which would be the simplest to use also? Cheers folks, thank you so much for your help again
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSp6upH6SSM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_prwXvicnv8

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 20 2016, 03:08 AM

Honestly stay away from the behringer IMHO. To each his own, but I'd suggest the OCTA way over the B unit. Better preamps, better everything. Spend the extra if it's between those two imho even if you have to buy a used OCTA.

The iconnectivity control panel on the front is way cool in that it's a touch panel. I still dig but some folks do say they get annoyed having to press the channel before hitting the knob. I honestly wish it was both knobs and touch panel but such is life Still a really flexible interface and honestly punches way above it's weight. It's something you'd grow in to over the years as you came to understand it's routing. I still am learning on it. It's just sooooo freaking deep. But from the sound of things the octa or iconn would make you a happy man But don't forget about the 4 channel focusrite as it's got great bits and is very easy to use so it wins on simplicity.

Todd

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 19 2016, 03:35 AM)

Thanks Todd,
No, I'm not planning on playing live, don't have the skills yet anyway but if I did have the skills I would be more of a studio musician rather than a performer
I'm struggling to find that Behringer unit in stock anywhere. I'll look deeper into the other units.
Did you find the iConnectivity unit to be a ball ache having to use the touch panel to select tracks to alter gain rather than have an independent knob for each? I know at first this kind of thing seems great, but once the novelty has worn off it can become a ball ache.
Cheers

UPDATE:
UPDATE:
Ultra shortlist. Please watch but don’t take the cost of each unit into account. Which do you think is the best, and why? Which would be the simplest to use also? Cheers folks, thank you so much for your help again
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSp6upH6SSM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_prwXvicnv8

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 20 2016, 11:35 AM

Thanks Todd,
Well this is the reason I'm not rushing this one, these things all have something you want but none of them have everything you want. It's one of those, if you could take the bits you want from each device that would be great but that's not how it is so it takes time to weigh it all up.
I've just spent an hour lying in bed looking at the Focusrite 18i8 on my tablet, it looks almost ideal, no fannying around with scroll buttons just direct to the job.
I downloaded the manual and it confused me a little bit. In the direct monitoring section it says to overcome latency you can use direct monitoring and to do this you route the signal to the headphone sockets. Can't you direct monitor using monitors? It doesn't mention it but if you can't I won't buy it.
Other than that it looks the best for me note, 3+ inputs on the front being the main thing.
Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Feb 20 2016, 05:04 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 20 2016, 10:35 AM)

I downloaded the manual and it confused me a little bit. In the direct monitoring section it says to overcome latency you can use direct monitoring and to do this you route the signal to the headphone sockets. Can't you direct monitor using monitors? It doesn't mention it but if you can't I won't buy it.
Other than that it looks the best for me note, 3+ inputs on the front being the main thing.
Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 20 2016, 05:12 PM

Thanks Mertay,
Doesn't make sense to me either, I would think direct monitoring through the main speakers would be standard.
Cheers

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 20 2016, 09:03 PM

Not to worry This is from their web site
"Direct monitoring allows a user to listen to the input signal of the interface with near zero latency. It takes the input signal on the interface and sends it straight to the headphone and line outputs on the device."

so it goes to the line outs which go to your speakers as well ) Very cool interface and has handy knobs right on the front and good bits inside

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 20 2016, 05:35 AM)

Thanks Todd,
Well this is the reason I'm not rushing this one, these things all have something you want but none of them have everything you want. It's one of those, if you could take the bits you want from each device that would be great but that's not how it is so it takes time to weigh it all up.
I've just spent an hour lying in bed looking at the Focusrite 18i8 on my tablet, it looks almost ideal, no fannying around with scroll buttons just direct to the job.
I downloaded the manual and it confused me a little bit. In the direct monitoring section it says to overcome latency you can use direct monitoring and to do this you route the signal to the headphone sockets. Can't you direct monitor using monitors? It doesn't mention it but if you can't I won't buy it.
Other than that it looks the best for me note, 3+ inputs on the front being the main thing.
Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 20 2016, 09:13 PM

QUOTE (Todd Simpson @ Feb 20 2016, 08:03 PM)

Not to worry This is from their web site
"Direct monitoring allows a user to listen to the input signal of the interface with near zero latency. It takes the input signal on the interface and sends it straight to the headphone and line outputs on the device."

so it goes to the line outs which go to your speakers as well ) Very cool interface and has handy knobs right on the front and good bits inside

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 21 2016, 11:10 AM

UPDATE:

I'm going for the Focusrite I think. There's a lot to learn if https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://mikeriversaudio.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/focusrite_scarlett_18i8_review.pdf&ved=0ahUKEwjN0u3UyYbLAhXGChoKHR7HCCgQFggrMAU&usg=AFQjCNG_j5010qd_vbF2gbdjovh5vnuKcA&sig2=G9imkFr6NFAIB0l0eNQX8Q review is anything to go by. He says the mic inputs aren't very sensitive but hopefully my SM57 will be ok. I guess I'll gently breask myself into using it while still using the GT-001 at first. Then I'll sort out how to connect the GT-001 to the Focusrite (I don't know the difference between balanced, unbalanced, line and instrument inputs yet) then I'll want to try the fx loop on the Peavey.
The mixer control software looks complicated to me but I don't know if it has to be used.
I guess this is the next step into real recording so I need to take time to learn it but not take too much practice time it will be worth it in the end as I won't be so restricted as I am now

Cheers folks

Posted by: Mertay Feb 22 2016, 11:00 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 21 2016, 10:10 AM)

UPDATE:
(I don't know the difference between balanced, unbalanced, line and instrument inputs yet)

The mixer control software looks complicated to me but I don't know if it has to be used.
I guess this is the next step into real recording so I need to take time to learn it but not take too much practice time it will be worth it in the end as I won't be so restricted as I am now

Cheers folks

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 22 2016, 11:48 AM

Thanks Mertay,
So if I wanted to go direct from my GT-001 into the interface, which inputs should I use?
Cheers mate

Posted by: Mertay Feb 22 2016, 12:22 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 22 2016, 10:48 AM)

Thanks Mertay,
So if I wanted to go direct from my GT-001 into the interface, which inputs should I use?
Cheers mate

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 22 2016, 01:25 PM

Cheers,

I'm just waiting for clarification about the direct monitoring through speakers

Phil

UPDATE:
Contacted Focusrite today, they have a live tech chat available from 1pm to 1am
He said you can monitor through the speakers and was going to speak to them about changing the manual
I'll order this evening

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 22 2016, 09:38 PM

It's ordered

But this scares me I haven't a clue

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqgxduXH6Yg

Posted by: Mertay Feb 22 2016, 10:06 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 22 2016, 08:38 PM)

It's ordered

But this scares me I haven't a clue

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqgxduXH6Yg

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 22 2016, 10:12 PM

Thanks Mertay,

I don't know why but I'm terrible with options, I just like things plain and simple, plug in and go, that's why I hate testing lots of things, I can never make my mind up what I like the best

It will be here on Wednesday but I won't be able to give it a good try until Thursday as I'm out Wednesday evening for a couple of hours.

Also I'm away all weekend.

Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Feb 22 2016, 10:56 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 22 2016, 09:12 PM)

Thanks Mertay,

I don't know why but I'm terrible with options, I just like things plain and simple, plug in and go, that's why I hate testing lots of things, I can never make my mind up one what I like the best

It will be here on Wednesday but I won't be able to give it a good try until Thursday as I'm out Wednesday evening for a couple of hours.

Also I'm away all weekend.

Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 23 2016, 08:27 AM

Cheers Mertay,

Fingers crossed. I guess I had to get to this point one day eh?

Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Feb 23 2016, 09:03 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 23 2016, 07:27 AM)

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 24 2016, 03:03 PM

The Scarlet bad boy has arrived, looks a lovely piece of kit, nice and solid and the red brushed aluminium is gorgeous

Won't get much time with it until tomorrow though

Phil

Posted by: Tom51 Feb 24 2016, 03:40 PM

Congrats Phil. I installed my Focusrite Clarett (Thunderbolt version) yesterday. Very happy so far.
Cheers Tom

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 24 2016, 05:12 PM

Great news Tom,

Hopefully we can help each other out. Have you tried the FX loop yet? I didn't know it had one of those, or rather I didn't know that SPIDIF could be used for that

Phil

Posted by: Tom51 Feb 24 2016, 05:45 PM

Not yet Phil
The installation/registration and download took me a while and I also watched all videos about installation Focusrite provides once you are logged on there. Now I just use the front input for testing with Cubase but when the Kemper comes I will have to get deeper into all the details. But so far sound usability and everything else was really very promising.

Posted by: Mertay Feb 24 2016, 06:04 PM

Congrats and its nice that you liked it visually

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 24 2016, 09:06 PM

Thanks Mertay, it is stunning in real life, looks much much bettre than the promo pics and the youtube videos.

Just installing it. It's going on my shelf about my desk with the PreSonus one side and the GT001 the other

UPDATE:

WOW!, so much software with it

UPDATE:

Ooops, clicked everything in the Time And Tone bundle. Nightmare now with unlicensed items

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 25 2016, 06:57 AM

The scarlet is a wonderful line of kit and has the legacy of decades of engineering behind it and the vendor will support it for years unlike other vendors (avid/alesis/etc) so find choice Which exact unit did you pick?

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 24 2016, 09:03 AM)

The Scarlet bad boy has arrived, looks a lovely piece of kit, nice and solid and the red brushed aluminium is gorgeous

Won't get much time with it until tomorrow though

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 25 2016, 08:10 AM

Thanks Todd,

I had the 18i8, it's built like a tank

Messed up with some of the plugins though, when the dialogue box came up for which of the Softube plugins to install, like a plum I clicked "all", now I keep getting iLock notifications saying they aren't available. I have access to some but I can never remember which

Got to sort that out tonight

Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 25 2016, 10:30 PM

Managed to record and playback through Reaper

Then realised that the audio in Reaper was still set to GT-001 so when I unplugged cables I got no sound from Reaper. Changed the device settings to Focusrite and now Reaper just keeps freezing
It freezes so badly, I can't even "end process", I have to reboot system

Posted by: Mertay Feb 25 2016, 10:37 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 25 2016, 09:30 PM)

Managed to record and playback through Reaper

Then realised that the audio in Reaper was still set to GT-001 so when I unplugged cables I got no sound from Reaper. Changed the device settings to Focusrite and now Reaper just keeps freezing
It freezes so badly, I can't even "end process", I have to reboot system

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 25 2016, 11:43 PM

Thanks Mertay,

I'm going to try reinstalling Reaper first. I changed the driver to "Focusrite USB" and it froze immediately, it won't even open to allow changes now. When I used task manager I couldn't end program so I tried end process and got an "access denied".

I'm a bit fed up about it to be honest but I'll get it sorted. Got to move forward

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Mertay Feb 26 2016, 12:29 AM

Such problems are normal on system component change but crashing so bad does look bad did any DAW came with the soundcard? if the problem happens again might be worth trying with another DAW too.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 26 2016, 06:39 AM

FIrst off congrats on the i8! Things to try

1.)Uninstall the drivers/software for the i8
2.)Unplug the device you were using as a recording interface from USB and leave it out till you get the i8 working.
3.)Reinstall the drivers software for the i8
4.)Reinstall reaper
5.)set reaper to use the i8 for input and output.

Then try recording and playing back through the i8 using the inputjacks on the front. If you want to use your guitar processor, plug it in the front jacks of the i8. YOu can plug in two jacks if you like to make it stereo

Let us know how it goes. Sounds like the rig may be confused as to which usb driver to use/load.

Todd


[Egad!quote name='Phil66' date='Feb 25 2016, 05:43 PM' post='727860']
Thanks Mertay,

I'm going to try reinstalling Reaper first. I changed the driver to "Focusrite USB" and it froze immediately, it won't even open to allow changes now. When I used task manager I couldn't end program so I tried end process and got an "access denied".

I'm a bit fed up about it to be honest but I'll get it sorted. Got to move forward

Cheers

Phil
[/quote]

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 26 2016, 09:48 AM

Thanks Todd.

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 26 2016, 05:35 PM

QUOTE (Mertay @ Feb 25 2016, 11:29 PM)

Such problems are normal on system component change but crashing so bad does look bad did any DAW came with the soundcard? if the problem happens again might be worth trying with another DAW too.

QUOTE (Mertay @ Feb 25 2016, 11:29 PM)

Such problems are normal on system component change but crashing so bad does look bad did any DAW came with the soundcard? if the problem happens again might be worth trying with another DAW too.

Posted by: Mertay Feb 26 2016, 07:31 PM

Did you uninstall the gt001 software? after an uninstall a re-start is usually good even if windows doesn't ask this. Its also good to close stuff like web browsers, virus programs while installing...

Also, if you right click the speaker icon next to the clock on windows you should see playback settings. Select it to see if windows recognises it as its main sound device.

It might be reaper related but I suspect previous drivers collided in the windows system.

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 26 2016, 09:06 PM

Thanks Mertay,

Just got back, was out for three hours not two but had some good nosh

While I was tucking into my Tex-Mex steak I had a brain wave. I always thought this wouldn't matter but I tried it anyway when I got back. I had plugged the USB cable into a POWERED hub, now I thought these things were safe, as they are powered but I thought "I'll just give it a try anyway, you never know!"

Anyway, I've just plugged the Focusrite into a USB port from the motherboard and it's working fine. Got to hook up the GT-001 to it now and see if that works.

Cheers folks

UPDATE:

Haven't tried the GT-001 yet, PC works fine when first switched on, if I use Reaper, then shut Reaper down, I get no sounds from anything else. No system sounds, no youtube. Currently talking to their support.

Posted by: Mertay Feb 26 2016, 09:44 PM

Thinking audio while eating steak, you're on the right path for sure

Good luck with the support, I hope everything gets solved.As for the latest issue my guess would be a program related to focusrite isn't closing the reaper is closed but lets see what their support guys have to say...

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 26 2016, 09:53 PM

Thanks Mertay.

Here is the transcription. Just a simple conflict in the end but to me it might as well be quantum physics I have to say, I would recommend Focusrite purely on their support. In my country it's available from 1pm to 1am. Perfect

Louie
20:26:07 Hello. How can I help you today?
Phil
20:26:11 Hello Louie
Phil
20:26:28 I've just installed my 18i8 but I have a couple of problems.
Phil
20:26:57 My computer works fine when I switch it on.
Phil
20:27:37 When I use my DAW and go back to using my computer normally I can't get any sound, no system sounds, no youtube sounds, nothing.
Phil
20:27:43 What can I do?
Louie
20:28:03 Can you please inform as to what type of computer you are connecting to? Is it a Mac or PC? What version of the OS are you currently on?
Phil
20:29:14 PC, Windows 10
Louie
20:30:12 Just to clarify, you can hear audio from your DAW but from other sources on Windows 10 PC correct?
Phil
20:31:12 I can hear ALL sounds when switched on UNTIL I use my DAW. Once I have used my DAW I can get no other sounds without restarting the PC.
Louie
20:31:54 Ok. Seems that the Sample Rates may not be matching.
Louie
20:32:01 What is the sample rate in which you use your DAW in?
Phil
20:32:47 Ahhh, I do get a message saying "device sample rate could not be changed because the following devices are playing audiodg.exe"
Phil
20:33:22 Is it fixable?
Louie
20:34:06 Where are you getting this message?
Phil
20:34:16 I have to say, I'm fairly new to this. I have used a much simpler setup previously, a Boss GT-001 which had one input, either mic or guitar.
Phil
20:34:42 I get that message if I open up my DAW when I have a youtube video playing
Phil
20:34:49 It appears in my DAW
Phil
20:35:48 I am only using the 18i8 for all sounds, not the soundcard in the PC
Louie
20:36:04 Ok.
Louie
20:36:14 Please stop playing audio from Youtube.
Louie
20:36:32 Open your DAW and plays some audio. Then launch MixControl and let me know what the sample rate is set to.
Phil
20:36:45 OK
Phil
20:38:50 Ahhh, that has shown another issue. It seems that I can't run my DAW either once I have come out of it and tried to play a youtube video. It opens up fine but won't play sound. Not only that but the line that goes along the wave form as it plays isn't moving.
Phil
20:39:12 Ahh hang on
Phil
20:39:32 I have just closed mixer control and the DAW is working.
Louie
20:39:57 Ok. Please launch it again and then let me know the Sample Rate.
Phil
20:40:05 44.1 khz
Louie
20:41:47 Ok. Can you please close all applications that play audio.
Phil
20:42:01 Done
Louie
20:42:22 Once that is done please follow the steps below:

To change the sample rate of your Windows settings please follow the instructions below:

- Navigate to Control Panel > Sound > Playback > Right click on your interface> Properties > Advanced. Under Default Format change the Sample Rate to that of your DAW. Press Apply and then OK.

- Navigate to Control Panel > Sound > Record > Right click on your interface > Properties > Advanced. Under Default Format change the Sample Rate to that of your DAW. Press Apply and then OK.

This will change the Sample Rate in your Windows settings so that it matches that of your DAW.
Phil
20:44:21 Done
Louie
20:44:51 Ok. Please launch your DAW and then test.
Louie
20:45:00 We want to make sure you are still able to play audio.
Phil
20:45:07 That works
Louie
20:45:32 Can you please try to play audio from Youtube.
Phil
20:46:00 Yes that works too.
Louie
20:46:31 Seems you are good to go.
Phil
20:47:14 Thank you so much, you have been excellent. I'd like to say this live help is brilliant. Thank you.
Louie
20:48:09 Happy to help.
Louie
20:48:12 Please let us know if we can assist you further. We are more than happy to help.
Louie
20:48:13 Have a great day!!

Posted by: Mertay Feb 26 2016, 10:23 PM

Whoa thats pretty cool! thats the stuff I want to see before I buy any gear, excellent service from focusrite!

Save this solution for future referance as incase you start recording 96000hz sample rate then probably you'll need to do that windows setting again. Now enjoy recording

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 26 2016, 10:36 PM

Yeah thanks Mertay, I have saved it in the Focusrite software folder

Brilliant service eh?

Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Feb 26 2016, 10:42 PM

Definitely!

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 27 2016, 06:43 AM

Glad to hear your rig is back at it!!

Todd

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 26 2016, 04:36 PM)

Yeah thanks Mertay, I have saved it in the Focusrite software folder

Brilliant service eh?

Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 27 2016, 09:47 AM

Thanks Todd,
Me too Really impressed with their support and perfect hours for me, 1pm to 1am
Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 28 2016, 09:51 PM

OK,

Back from my micro holiday. Connected everything up, including mic; amp emulated out and GT-001.

I'm getting this noise. Guitar volume is right down. It's reaching about -25db

https://soundcloud.com/gmcphil-1/noise

As I've only used the GT-001 before I haven't heard anything like it. This is from input 1, the changes are when I wiggle the jack plug. Input 2 is the same but I haven't figured out how to get the signal into the DAW from anything other than input 1 yet and I didn't have to do anything for that, it just seems to automatically do input 1.

If I plug a guitar straight into the input it is perfect. I set the inputs to "instrument" but it does the same on "line".

Any ideas? I don't think it's the 18i8 to be honest but what do I know

Thanks for your help, again folks.

Posted by: Mertay Feb 28 2016, 10:31 PM

The noise wasn't familiar to me, does it continue when you remove the jack?

also, could the guitar be picking any noise from a source near you? try moving the guitars body around where you sit to see if there is any change.

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 28 2016, 11:07 PM

Thanks Mertay,

It stops when I remove the jack. The guitar volume was turned right down which would, I think, stop any interference from the pickups being sent to the GT-001 and into the 18i8.
The GT-001 had the Satriani patch running that I used for my recent REC take that has a couple of high gain amps running in the patch.
I hope I can sort this out as I'm not getting any practise done

Tomorrow I think I'll plug the GT-001 into the front of the Peavey to see if it sounds the same.

Cheered buddy

Phil

Posted by: Mertay Feb 28 2016, 11:29 PM

Ah ok, I forgot the gt001

By the way, did you try other connections like amp xlr out, guitar direct in and mic.ing the amp? then adding your pedal to the chain. Don't add the gt001 to the chain before these are tested as its the most complicated gear among them, with all the gear you have to be systematic when connecting them

Check the input/output gains of the gt001 as it might be adjusted too high from the days it was used as the soundcard. Also try chaing from instrument to line input for the gt001 if its setted that way.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 29 2016, 12:49 AM

It will default to input 1 but you can change the input in your DAW Have you tried running direct guitar to i8? And using a plugin like guitar rig or something? If you run direct without any thing in between it should be very quiet. Just to make sure there is nothing off with the i8.

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 29 2016, 08:14 AM

Thanks folks,

Guitar straight in is perfect, line just makes it quieter but I have to turn the gain up to get decent levels so that ends up the same. I haven't tried anything else yet but will tonight.

I never messed with any input output settings on the GT-001 except for output level which is a physical knob on the unit, basically a volume. I did alter the mic preamp in the settings but that's not where this problem is.

I can see me going back to just using the GT001 at this rate
The shop I had it from gives full refund for 14 days and exchange up to 30 days.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Mertay Feb 29 2016, 10:08 AM

But why?

You already solved the windows issue which can happen with any interface (gt001 had its issues too), the direct in works (use inst. input anyway, it should give slightly better highs) and I'm sure using a mic. or the xlr out of the amp would work too...

To me in your rig, the gt001 now belongs to the fx loop of your amp primarily for modulation fx or alternatively plug it to the input using clean channel and the sounds you already use would sound sweeter cause of the tubes after a slight adjustment of the amp eq's.

Usually such noise problems are solved with a simple solution for the gt001, you just have to investigate. Also try a different jack, use a different power socket and move away the gt001 somewhere to see if its interfereing with anything...since everything else seems working, I'd suspect the gt001 for finding a solution.

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 29 2016, 10:13 AM

Thanks Mertay,
I guess I've just got the blues about it, which isn't like me, I'm the eternal optimist
The thing is, I still need to use it without the amp at times, when I have little time and need to post a take for REC, and need to get a close tone or if it's late at night. I don't want to have to keep switching the source from Focusrite to GT.
I have a lot of figures to do for work tonight but I'll try and experiment a bit.
Cheers mate

Posted by: Mertay Feb 29 2016, 11:48 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Feb 29 2016, 09:13 AM)

Thanks Mertay,
I guess I've just got the blues about it, which isn't like me, I'm the eternal optimist
The thing is, I still need to use it without the amp at times, when I have little time and need to post a take for REC, and need to get a close tone or if it's late at night. I don't want to have to keep switching the source from Focusrite to GT.
I have a lot of figures to do for work tonight but I'll try and experiment a bit.
Cheers mate

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 29 2016, 12:11 PM

Thanks Mertay,
I'll struggle to leave it though. I hate being beaten got to keep on having one more try, one more thing
Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 29 2016, 08:13 PM

Ok,

I got home from work with a heavy schedule but couldn't leave this thing alone.

Here is the best I can get it.

What do you think?

https://soundcloud.com/gmcphil-1/noise-0

Posted by: Mertay Feb 29 2016, 08:58 PM

I don't hear anything?

what did you do to decrease it? is the guitar sound also in good level?

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 29 2016, 09:42 PM

I found out that when my splitter is plugged in to output to my Peavey and my GT-001 I get that interference.

My splitter is one of http://www.amazon.co.uk/Art-Coolswitch-A-B-Y-Switch/dp/B0002E56MG

So I'll have to give up on the multiple inputs for the time being as I can't got direct to the amp AND the GT-001.

I guess I need to find out why the interference is happening, but at least I've found it

I never thought something like a switchbox could cause that.

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Mertay Feb 29 2016, 11:12 PM

I checked the manual of the switcher, doesn't say much but keeps saying to use shielded cables. I guess it might be sensitive to sources that can cause noise around or connected to it, besides changing cables all I can think of is maybe its inside needs a cleaning sprey

Posted by: Phil66 Feb 29 2016, 11:21 PM

Thanks Mertay,
It's pretty new, I haven't really used it only when I was messing with two amp heads and one can and it worked without the battery. Now I have the battery in. I tried using it further away but it's not like it's picking up interference from "around" a device, only when I plug a cable from one of the outlets to the Peavey input. I'll email them tomorrow.
I am using shielded cables too
Cheers buddy
Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 1 2016, 09:10 PM

OK, here's something interesting.

Listen to the difference between the two valve heads. Peavey Valveking 20MH and Vox Lil' Night Train, TURN YOUR VOLUME DOWN FOR THE VOX.
I kept the same cables and everything, I had to turn down the gain on the 18i8 for the Vox to stop clipping.
So it's guitar into one of the inputs, output B to Vox head, output A to GT-001. If I pull the output to the Vox out, it goes quiet.

https://soundcloud.com/gmcphil-1/noise-peavey

https://soundcloud.com/gmcphil-1/noise-vox

Additionally, here is a recording with the output to the Vox and me scrolling through about 19 patches. Now keep in mind, the output to the Vox (and the Peavey) is direct from the switch, so it should be guitar in>guitar out to head and, guitar in>guitar out to GT-001, these should effectively be separate outputs. It seems to me that the signal from the GT-001 is actually being fed back to the switch and into the other output of the switch. Very very weird to my mind but some electronics guru may think it's obvious why.

https://soundcloud.com/gmcphil-1/noise-vox-various-patches

I can't do anything about this pedal as I've had it beyond the returns limit so can anyone recommend a good splitter? At least then I can send it back immediately if it gives me hassle.

Cheers folks, I have some odd things happen here in the Twilight Zone eh?

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 1 2016, 09:39 PM

The splitter may be creating an "impedance mis match" (long word for resulting in extra noise) so getting a better splitter may help. the gt001 has stereo out, can you set half the signal to be just plain non fx signal? That way you could send the right half to your amp or what not. Can you turn off everything right/vs left? if so, feeding the i8 from the fx on left out and feeding the amp with dry from right out would let you use the gt001 as the splitter

If not, have you looked at the BEHRINGER ULTRA-G GI100 its about $40. One xlr goes to the i8 and one guitar jack goes to your guitar rig. it's got speaker emulation if you want it but can be turned off. You can just leave it in the chain if you like

Todd

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 1 2016, 09:54 PM

QUOTE (Todd Simpson @ Mar 1 2016, 08:39 PM)

The splitter may be creating an "impedance mis match" (long word for resulting in extra noise) so getting a better splitter may help. the gt001 has stereo out, can you set half the signal to be just plain non fx signal? That way you could send the right half to your amp or what not. Can you turn off everything right/vs left? if so, feeding the i8 from the fx on left out and feeding the amp with dry from right out would let you use the gt001 as the splitter

Todd

Posted by: Mertay Mar 1 2016, 10:47 PM

Chech this out; http://www.music-group.com/Categories/Behringer/Signal-Processors/DI-Boxes/DI20/p/P0176/Features#The-ULTRA-DI-DI20-is-a-one-of-a-kind-DI-Dire

I've had this for 10 years now (bought used) and thought it was discontiuned till now. But haven't used it for atleast 2 years

it can split the signal to 3 outputs. I clearly remember once did what you're trying to do; 1 channel direct guitar to daw, 2 processor to DAW. I only had 2 channel soundcard at home at the time but it worked noiseless enough as far as I remember, don't expect miracles though as its a budget di box and you'll need xlr-to-line cables.

Radial is the king for this kind of stuff, why not e-mail them briefly explain what you need as not everything they have is too expensive; http://www.radialeng.com/index.php

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 2 2016, 02:40 AM

Nice! I didn't know that unit could connect channels but if it can it would be perfect! once to amp, one to i8 and one to spare or use as stereo.

QUOTE (Mertay @ Mar 1 2016, 04:47 PM)

Chech this out; http://www.music-group.com/Categories/Behringer/Signal-Processors/DI-Boxes/DI20/p/P0176/Features#The-ULTRA-DI-DI20-is-a-one-of-a-kind-DI-Dire

I've had this for 10 years now (bought used) and thought it was discontiuned till now. But haven't used it for atleast 2 years

it can split the signal to 3 outputs. I clearly remember once did what you're trying to do; 1 channel direct guitar to daw, 2 processor to DAW. I only had 2 channel soundcard at home at the time but it worked noiseless enough as far as I remember, don't expect miracles though as its a budget di box and you'll need xlr-to-line cables.

Radial is the king for this kind of stuff, why not e-mail them briefly explain what you need as not everything they have is too expensive; http://www.radialeng.com/index.php

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 2 2016, 09:26 AM

Thanks Mertay and Todd
I'll check that out but I'll email radial too. I don't mind paying more if something works, no point paying for something that doesn't
Really got to get back on track with practise though.

Cheers dudes

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 2 2016, 08:53 PM

Hello folks,

Just been thinking (again ), the back of the Focusrite has spdif which on the box, it calls it FX Loop. If I got some jack to phono cables, could the Boss be put through that?

Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Mar 2 2016, 10:34 PM

Never got into spdif but I didn't understand what would be the difference if you placed it line?

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 2 2016, 11:18 PM

Thanks Mertay,

I didn't know if there would be a difference either but I was also thinking I could split the signal to my amp fx loop

Cheers

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 3 2016, 12:32 AM

The SPDIF is an output so you can use it to send audio to things that have a SPDIF input. Some outboard fx gear has spdif input. As far as using it wirht your amp, not much help Unless there is a spdif in on your amp? It's not just an audio jack, it's a proprietary type of signal that needs to connect to / from another spdif jack. If your GT001 has spdif out, you can use that to connect to spdif in on your i8. It will carry a stereo signal.

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 2 2016, 02:53 PM)

Hello folks,

Just been thinking (again ), the back of the Focusrite has spdif which on the box, it calls it FX Loop. If I got some jack to phono cables, could the Boss be put through that?

Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 3 2016, 08:07 AM

Thanks Todd,

I think you've saved me a headache

Cheers

Posted by: Georgia Rocker Mar 5 2016, 09:17 PM

Wow I don't know about alot of the stuff listed on this thread. Mine is very simple and easy for a newbie. I used M-audio interface USB to computer with sound blaster live card on computer. Rokit 5 monitors with Audicity to record with, its free and not bad to use. I use a Boss GT10 processor. I was dissapointed in the sound of the monitors, no bass. I use that setup for music school.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 6 2016, 02:48 AM

You will learn as you go I use KRK ROKIT 6 monitors which are very similar to yours. The 5 inch work best when paired with a KRK subwoofer. The KRK 10 inch sub runs about $400 new. it will change your life in terms of your mixing.

QUOTE (Georgia Rocker @ Mar 5 2016, 03:17 PM)

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 6 2016, 11:44 AM

Hello folks.
Here's how the problem with the noise is going so far. I went onto Home Recording forum. http://homerecording.com/bbs/general-discussions/digital-recording-and-computers/strange-interference-heres-challenge-you-387357/ is the thread.

Basically they advised me to buy a ground loop isolator which is what I have done and am waiting for it to be delivered.

For what it cost its a worthwhile try.

I also emailed Raial, they recommended either the TwinCity or the Shotgun if I want a bit of future proofing.

Chhers

Posted by: Mertay Mar 6 2016, 03:03 PM

Cool, let us know how it goes

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 7 2016, 03:38 PM

Noise is a constant problem IMHO. In a home recording situation there are a plethora (yup, just used plethora in a sentence, my english teach would be so proud) of things that can cause/add to noise. Something like inconsistent cable/power electricity/grounding in a houses / flats wiring/electricity is the first thing that pops to mind. Anyone using single coil pickups can tell you about the hum they "pickup" all by themselves which is why "hum buckers" were invented in the first place.

Once you get most of the kinks out of a recording chain, (by eliminating as much as possible from the chain then adding things back one at a time) you may still find you have unwanted noise.

At that point it's a hardware and or software noise gate that will be your best friend. But start with Guitar / interface / computer and if you have a laptop, unplug from house power and then plug back in to house power to see if even the battery in the laptop is causing issue.

Chasing down noise can be a pain but it's worth it in the end even if you end up just curing it with a noise gate
Todd

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 6 2016, 05:44 AM)

Hello folks.
Here's how the problem with the noise is going so far. I went onto Home Recording forum. http://homerecording.com/bbs/general-discussions/digital-recording-and-computers/strange-interference-heres-challenge-you-387357/ is the thread.

Basically they advised me to buy a ground loop isolator which is what I have done and am waiting for it to be delivered.

For what it cost its a worthwhile try.

I also emailed Raial, they recommended either the TwinCity or the Shotgun if I want a bit of future proofing.

Chhers

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 7 2016, 03:41 PM

Yeah thanks Todd,

I will try this first, it's very very quiet until I plug the output of the switcher to any amp head, it's worse on the Vox head but plugging just a guitar in causes no issues.

We'll get there

Cheers dude.

Hope all is ok with you and yours

Phil

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 10 2016, 10:14 PM

OK, I've sorted the noise problem. I tried the Ground Loop Isolator in between my Boss GT-001 and my Focusrite and it made it worse so I put one of the leads from one output of the switcher to the input on my Focusrite. The other output goes to my head. All noise gone except for the usual gain hum that you get.

Only problem is, when I switch from output to just the amp to outputting to both amp and interface I get a volume drop AND a tonal change from the amp. Any ideas?

Cheers folks, Here is a soundcloud first with single output second with output to amp AND interface.

https://soundcloud.com/gmcphil-1/output-variation

Posted by: Mertay Mar 10 2016, 10:40 PM

So the noise is totally gt001 related? lets keep that in mind but focus on the other issue for now.

Output can be compansated no bigge but can you share whats going on on the focusrite when the signal is split? I'd like to hear that tonal change on a pure clean tone.

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 10 2016, 11:50 PM

Sorry Mertay, I don't understand. Do you want me to record the amp clean or do you want me to record the amp completely disconnected form anything else??

Cheers mate

Posted by: Mertay Mar 11 2016, 07:52 AM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 10 2016, 10:50 PM)

Sorry Mertay, I don't understand. Do you want me to record the amp clean or do you want me to record the amp completely disconnected form anything else??

Cheers mate

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 11 2016, 08:03 AM

Thanks Mertay,

I'll try that tonight. The guitar was going straight to amp only via the switcher, I was going to the Focusrite via the Hotbird but the Hotbird was in bypass.

Cheers buddy

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 11 2016, 09:16 PM

Mertay,

I've just read your comment again, one of us is mixed up The recording I sent was the sound from the AMP, it's the AMP sound that is altered when I switch both outputs on from the Switchbox.

Am I misunderstanding?

When I record it will just have to be open string stuff as I have hurt my hand. See http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=53694&view=findpost&p=728764.

I'm thinking that you want the clean sound from the amp direct and via the switcher, not the Focusrite direct and from the switcher. Am I correct or am I going insane

Cheers buddy.

Posted by: Mertay Mar 11 2016, 09:44 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 11 2016, 08:16 PM)

Mertay,

I've just read your comment again, one of us is mixed up The recording I sent was the sound from the AMP, it's the AMP sound that is altered when I switch both outputs on from the Switchbox.

Am I misunderstanding?

When I record it will just have to be open string stuff as I have hurt my hand. See http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=53694&view=findpost&p=728764.

I'm thinking that you want the clean sound from the amp direct and via the switcher, not the Focusrite direct and from the switcher. Am I correct or am I going insane

Cheers buddy.

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 11 2016, 10:20 PM

Thank Mertay,

The switcher doesn't seem to alter the tone or level going into the Focusrite, just the amp. I'll check it out tomorrow. I can try and get this sorted while I can't play properly, at least then it won't stop me practising

Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Mar 11 2016, 10:52 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 11 2016, 09:20 PM)

Thank Mertay,

The switcher doesn't seem to alter the tone or level going into the Focusrite, just the amp. I'll check it out tomorrow. I can try and get this sorted while I can't play properly, at least then it won't stop me practising

Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 11 2016, 11:41 PM

Thanks Mertay,

I'm sure I tried swapping and it was still the amp. I'll test tomorrow all being well.

Cheers buddy

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 12 2016, 09:47 PM

Hello Mertay,

I've just reconnected everything and I can't create the problem now. I hate it when that happens because you don't learn anything.

Oh well, I'll see what tomorrow brings.

Cheers buddy

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 13 2016, 12:29 AM

intermittent failure could indicate something as small as a bad cable or power supply. I'd say check each cable in your rig one at a time. Guitar/cable/amp, even the patch cables. You'd be shocked how often it's something small like that.

Todd

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 12 2016, 03:47 PM)

Hello Mertay,

I've just reconnected everything and I can't create the problem now. I hate it when that happens because you don't learn anything.

Oh well, I'll see what tomorrow brings.

Cheers buddy

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 13 2016, 10:18 AM

Doh!!!!!!
I've just realised, I didn't put the ground loop thing in, it must be that. Got a busy day but I'll test tonight.
Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Mar 13 2016, 07:28 PM

And be careful with the hand while doing that!

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 13 2016, 09:55 PM

Hello Mertay,
Ok, I tried to record clean, not a chance. Now get this, when sending to the amp from the splitter the output is 15 decibels louder than when I switch to sending to both the amp and the soundcard (using a sound level meter next to the mic) BUT, the louder amp signal doesn't even move the peak meter in Reaper whereas the quieter one moves it about 15 decibels more. Also the tone goes from listening to a hi-fi to listening to an old little transistor radio, it loses all bass and get very thin, there is also clicking noises on the recording.

I also thought my guitar had to go for repair. The splitter makes my guitar volume knob not work properly, there is hardly any increase in volume until I get to 9 then it goes up massively from 9 to 10, I thought the pot was dying but when I went straight into the amp, a nice steady increase was to be had It is the ground isolator that cause both of the above problems but it solves the noise issue.

It wouldn't be anything to do with the ground lift on the amp would it?

I think I'll just bin this splitter and get a Radial

Posted by: Mertay Mar 13 2016, 10:52 PM

I've never got into the electrical side of stuff but to me when the signal is split an aspect of the electricity thats involved carrying the signal is screwed up.

I guess thats why the better splitters are so expensive as they are engineered to keep the splitted signal(s) tonally un affected.

I do know radial is really good, when searched the web seems the most guaranteed to work. Some other brands also get mentioned (like voodoo labs amp selector) but unfortunatly I don't have fresh hands on experience. What I'd do is before pulling the trigger on the radial pm gmc teachers as they're always involved in recording gmc related or not, maybe one of them could come up with a better/more affordable product option?

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 13 2016, 11:38 PM

Thanks Mertay,

I'm going to ask around but I do think I'll end up going for a Radial. Why can't electricity work like water? You put a Y connector on a hose and it splits the water flow no problem.

Cheers

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 14 2016, 01:04 AM

The radial stuff is top notch IMHO and always worth the extra money. Very solid gear.

Todd

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 13 2016, 05:38 PM)

Thanks Mertay,

I'm going to ask around but I do think I'll end up going for a Radial. Why can't electricity work like water? You put a Y connector on a house and it splits the water flow no problem.



Cheers

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 23 2016, 12:29 PM

Thanks Todd,
The Radial are out of stock at the moment, so any of you know about these?
http://www.andertons.co.uk/audio-solutions/pid25360/cid729/fulltone-usa-true-path-aby-pedal-with-hard-touch-switching.asp

http://www.andertons.co.uk/audio-solutions/pid25359/cid729/fulltone-usa-true-path-aby-pedal-with-soft-touch-switching.asp

Cheers

Posted by: Mertay Mar 23 2016, 06:41 PM

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 23 2016, 11:29 AM)

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 23 2016, 08:32 PM

WHAT MERTAY SAID!!! FUlltone makes good stuff and this looks like a great build with great features.


Toddd

QUOTE (Mertay @ Mar 23 2016, 12:41 PM)

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 23 2016, 09:56 PM

Thanks folks

This is more of a minefield than anything else I've thought about. Someone else at Anderton's has recommended http://www.radialeng.com/reampkit.php, there is a youtube vid below. I'm not sure it's really what I want though. I'm thinking long and hard about this one

I don't know Mr John Cuniberti (Surfin With The Alien etc) invented this device and sold the rights and company to Radial



I'm still going with the quality a/b y at the moment. I would like the silent switching Fultone (if I go with that one) but it's in yukky cream colour

And what's the difference with http://www.andertons.co.uk/audio-solutions/pid11232/cid729/radial-tonebone-bigshot-true-bypass-aby-pedal.asp?LGWCODE=11232;56375;6335&gclid=CjwKEAjw_ci3BRDSvfjortr--DQSJADU8f2jb0jBRv2zHAxBBdcsNG0yTcj2LdoFz_yuD45DhJ6RzxoCCvrw_wcB one given the price???

Cheers

Phil

Posted by: Mertay Mar 23 2016, 11:08 PM

I'm not sure about that reamp kit...something feels wrong to me to connect 2 boxes to split a signal...

The ABY pedal from radial though also looks promising, I guess the tuner out can be used as another split (can't be sure how clean it would be though still nice). Reviews look good.

Really up to you at this point to select which one

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 23 2016, 11:30 PM

QUOTE (Mertay @ Mar 23 2016, 10:08 PM)

I'm not sure about that reamp kit...something feels wrong to me to connect 2 boxes to split a signal...

The ABY pedal from radial though also looks promising, I guess the tuner out can be used as another split (can't be sure how clean it would be though still nice). Reviews look good.

Really up to you at this point to select which one

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 24 2016, 01:28 AM

Just make sure you can return it, whatever you get. That way if it's not for you, just swap for the other unit. At some point, you gotta try the finalists out on your rig. Some places are really flexible on returns, some are not. So make sure you buy from a vendor that is cool with swap outs/returns

QUOTE (Phil66 @ Mar 23 2016, 05:30 PM)

I am at a loss I'm still thinking the twin city because the extra cost from the same manufacturer must mean something

Posted by: Phil66 Mar 24 2016, 08:06 AM

Thanks Todd,

Andertons offer 14 day refund and 30 day exchange

Cheers