Mackie ProFx16v2 USB out to MacBook low signal

[win dcruz]

Is there any way I can increase the signal from my Mackie mixer onto my Macbook where I am using GarageBand. It's ridiculously low making it unusable
The model is ProFxV2 . Any ideas appreciated

[Hugh Robjohns]

I've not tested that desk and I can't find confirmation in the manual, but I expect the A-D converter feeding the USB output is calibrated such that the mixer's analogue overload point (+20dBu) matches the digital overload (0dBFS).

That means that the 0 level on the desk meters aligns to -20dBFS in your computer. This is the standard SMPTE digital operating level.

It might look low on the computer, but it's quite correct and ensures you have headroom when tracking and mixing.

However, if you want louder, run hotter levels through the desk, with the meters well up into the red.

You might find this article helpful:

https://www.soundonsound.com/techniques ... w-software

[Arpangel]

If this doesn’t work for you you could always ditch the USB, which is only stereo anyway, get an interface and use the desk analogue outputs, you can have up to six outputs inc the sub's feeding your DAW from the mixer.
But as Hugh says, recording at the levels you’re currently using is good, especially at high recording rates.

[frandeponte]

Have you tried adjusting the gain levels on the mixer itself? Maybe boosting the main output or the individual channel gains could help. Also, check your GarageBand settings to make sure the input levels aren't set too low. If that doesn't work, you might want to consider using a separate audio interface or a booster to give your signal a bit more oomph.