User Manual

Apogee ONE | User’s Guide for Windows
How do I set a recording level?
Once your microphone or instrument is connected, your audio software is configured and you’ve
created a new recording track, just how do you set the input gain for a proper recording level in your
audio software? There’s no simple answer, but with a few guidelines and a bit of experience, you’ll
find the perfect recording level for any situation.
When setting the recording level, here are a few guidelines you’ll want to think about:
1. Digital overs (where Apogee ONE’s Over indicators light) should be avoided.
2. The recording level shouldn’t be so low that the underlying noise becomes a significant part of
the total signal.
3. It’s best to strive for some consistency in the level of a recorded track. In other words, try not to
radically adjust the recording level from one take to the next - you’ll appreciate some
consistency when it’s time to mix.
Given these guidelines, it’s a better strategy to set your recording levels rather conservatively to avoid
unexpected overs. In the early days of 16-bit digital audio, it was important to set a higher level to
maintain the greatest dynamic range, but that’s simply not necessary with a 24-bit system. In other
words, it’s better to “undershoot” the level than overshoot and
have digital overs. Just how much to undershoot the gain setting is determined by the nature of the
sound being recorded. As a general rule, instruments such as bass and organ have a more consistent
level than percussive instruments, such as a tambourine, and may be recorded at a higher level. Also,
the performer’s skill and playing style can dictate more or less caution when setting levels. As you
gain experience, you’ll be able to more accurately set a good recording level while avoiding digital
overs.
When using Apogee ONE’s built-in mic, it’s inevitable that manipulation of the top panel encoder will
be heard over the mic. In this instance, use the software control panel (described on page 12) to set
input gain and output level.
What is phantom power?
Phantom power (also known as 48V) is a DC voltage necessary to power condenser microphones
such as the Neumann U87 or AKG 414. If you’re connecting a condenser mic, be sure to select Ext
48V Mic in the Maestro Control Input menu.
Through a bit of electronic trickery, phantom power is supplied to   the mic via the same cable used to
transmit the audio signal from   the mic. There are a few precautions to take when using phantom
power: don’t connect a ribbon mic when phantom power is on, and mute headphones or speakers
before toggling 48V on or off.
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