patching question

i'm wondering about ordering a new cable. the source is a sequencer, and it's got stereo RCA outs, so i'm not sure if i should go into my mixer using the RCA tape ins like for recording, or get an RCA to 1/4" cable, and go to the standard 1/4" jacks for input. does one format offer higher resolution than the other, or is it better to stick to the same connection on both ends of the cable?

I would do the stereo 1/4" or an XLR personally, I dunno though.

well the tape in will function a bit differently to using channels on the mixer so you might want to think about that too. as for cable choice though 1/4" is generally a bit better, tougher and more preferable. It won't make much of a difference though on a normal setup, aside from the routing capabilites of the tape in compared to going into the channels.

use what feels most comfortable in your grubby little paws m'ladz.

i dont get it.

tasty no?

wat, cake and cheeseburger? maybe with some peanut butter.

If you really want to learn about it, you need to check the stickers on the back of the sequencer and also read the schematics/specs of the mixer inserts.

RCAs output 'Volts', there is no 'Resolution' per say. They either output 1.228V (for +4dBu 'line level/professional') or .316V (for -10dBV 'consumer/semi-professional').

If you insert 'consumer/semi-professional' type connectors into 'line level/professional' inputs there will be an 11.8db volume drop from the sequencer when listened to from the mixer outs.

Easiest way to check is to connect the sequencer to your mixer with the RCA 'tape-ins' and listen to the volume level at the mixer output. Then try plugging the sequencer into the 1/4" ins and having a listen again. If there is no noticeable volume difference, forgetaboutit. If there is a difference use the louder setup, obviously.

You wouldn't need to worry about XLRs and other 'balanced' connectors, RCAs are always 'unbalanced'.

If the sequencer module did give out audio/volts on 'balanced' outputs it would be wise to use 'balanced' cables/connectors at both ends (providing your mixer actually utilises 'balanced' inputs), this stops potential interference/noise getting picked up along the cable runs.

thanx man, i'll try it both ways with my existing cables, and see which is better. no need to buy both types if i don't have to.