I'm trying to get the best sound out of my mixer and i've got a couple questions...
this is the mixer i've got for my turntable

http://www.colorproduction.com.hk/image ... 05pro2.jpg

there is a trim knob for the input on the channel and a volume knob for the main output volume. there is also a fader for the output volume of the channel that reads out in db. are there any rules of thumb about setting these? i really don't have an ear but want to get the best sound possible. for example, is it logical to always keep the trim down on the channel and push the output volume to the max, or vice versa, etc.... should i allow the input signal to pass +3db or try and keep it below zero? maybe i'm being a little vague but if anybody could help me it would be greatly appreciated.

Keep the trim down for line levels. You want the output as close to clipping as possible without clipping, i.e. 0db.

thanks for the quick response man. so i should keep the trim down, the fader readout around 0 db, and the main out as loud as possible until i start to get the red light on my 404?

You got it dude.

The trim knobs should be turned up until the LED meters on the mixer approach 0 db, or just before they go into the red in other words. Different records will have wildly different volume levels, so there's no rule of thumb about where to put the trim knobs (they're usually referred to as "gain" on most mixers). Some older records will never reach 0, no matter how high you set the gain/trim. This is true whether your Turntable is digital or analog.

The channel upfaders (the faders above the crossfader) should be pushed all the way up. The channels are labeled "PGM" but everyone refers to them as channels.

The master volume running out of the mixer should be turned to 1 o'clock, or about 70% in other words.

If you need more volume, then turn your speakers up. Worry about getting the beat itself loud after you've finished making the entire thing. Do it with a DAW. Lacking that, I'm sure someone around here will turn it up for you if you send them a .wav or .flac file.

EDIT: It's best to leave your 404's master output knob at about 1 o'clock as well. In fact, it's recommended that most devices' master volume knobs should be set here. It's important to have your setup calibrated at least uniformly, if not properly. I almost never touch my 404 master knob, and I broke my mixer's master volume out knob off completely, so it *never* moves. This helps keep your mixes sounding similar so you can develop an effective workflow.

--
P
1800hosey.com