Setting levels for running audio outputs to guitar amp

[siderealxxx]

Hi - I wish to run some soft-synth parts through my Fender Twin to give it that flavour...

Firstly what's the best way of outputting the signal from my Fireface 800 and setting appropriate levels so as not to fry the amp or cause distortion?

And secondly, I'll need to record the left and right signal separately (for obvious reasons)... I'm assuming the time delay will be the same accross both signals so it should realign automatically in Logic. Anything to watch for here?

Thanks! Sidx

[Hugh Robjohns]

Ideally you need a 're-amper' which takes the balanced line-level output from your fireface and converts it to an unbalanced instrument level signal suitable for your guitar amp, while simultaneously avoiding any potential ground lop hum problems. There are many such beasts on the market, across a wide range of prices, but one of the more cost-effective is Orchid Electronics' Amp Interface which several other forum members have used and report good things about.

H

[siderealxxx]

Thanks Hugh - that looks good for my needs

Is this basically a DI box? Why does it have a volume control also?

Is there a universal option that might also come in handy round the studio/out-n-about for other tasks?

Thanks

[The Elf]

Is this basically a DI box?

No. Entirely the opposite, in fact - I'll let Hugh give you the details!

Is there a universal option that might also come in handy round the studio/out-n-about for other tasks?

I primarily use a Little Labs Red-Eye that doubles as a re-amper and DI box.

A very flexible alternative is the ART Cleanbox that works in stereo and does line level balanced to consumer unbalanced (and vice-versa simultaneously) and features left/right volume controls. It's a very useful device to have around for all kinds of little jobs, such as interfacing stomp-boxes, MP3 players and the like.

[Hugh Robjohns]

Is this basically a DI box?

It's similar to a passive DI box, but working in the reverse direction to normal.

Why does it have a volume control also?

So that you can optimise the send level to suit the guitar amp input, to allow you to get the right drive level for the desired effect.

Is there a universal option that might also come in handy round the studio/out-n-about for other tasks?

Not sure what you mean by 'universal model'... There are alternatives, certainly, but the ground lift, polarity reversal, combi-XLR/TRS balanced input, and level control make this about as versatile as possible.

H

[Persuazion]

Its a very nice box and great service from John!