users manual

Maestro - Apogee ONE User’s Guide
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 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 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 a 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 to ONE, 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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