API 3124 XLR out to line input

[Frank Rideau]

Hi,
I want to maximize the number of inputs on my Soundcraft console and I wonder if I can route my 2 drums overhead channels from my API 3124 pre to my console's stereo channel 9/10 which has 2 lines input. I would use a XLR to 1/4 cable from the pre to the console.
Anything that should prevent me doing this?

Thanks.

[Drew Stephenson]

Smarter brains than mine may disagree but looks made for the job to me. Does the soundcraft have the option to switch between -10 / +4 on the line channels? The API works at the latter I think.

[Hugh Robjohns]

It would help to know which soundcraft desk, but in principle, yes, no problem. Assuming the desk's dual line inputs are balanced, then use XLR to TRS jack plug cables.

H

[Frank Rideau]

Thanks for the response Hugh. it is the Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK. It has balanced line level input.

[Jack Ruston]

One 'quirk' to be aware of - Those API's do their 'thing' when you push them. By which I man that they saturate and compress in a way that you could say represents the API sound that everyone bangs on about. Accordingly the output will often be really hot off the back of that 3124 - It's one of the annoying things about the API design that they did not include an output fader on the 3124 or the 512, and some clone designs like the CAPI did address that very effectively. So it's good to be able to use the desk to control the level to digital, but just be aware of how hard the API might hit that line in, and trim accordingly. You can always stick a line pad in the way too.

J

[jaminem]

..and also i'd be wanting the API pre's to do their 'thing' more on kick and snare rather than the overheads - The API 'sound' gives a tight mid range and saturates the transients (if you drive them) that sounds great on snare and gives you good definition on the beater click and a tighter kick drum sound...

[Hugh Robjohns]

Accordingly the output will often be really hot off the back of that 3124 - It's one of the annoying things about the API design that they did not include an output fader on the 3124...

The current 3124V model features an added variable output level knob specifically to address this (well-made) point.

H