Alesis 7-51-0214-b User Manual

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  1
   
Hardware Overview 
 10 
2.  Inserts – The IO|14/26 features “insert” jacks on every 
analog input.  These inserts allow you to place additional 
equipment (like compressors, equalizers, etc.) into your signal 
path using “insert” cables.  Insert cables feature a ¼” TRS 
connector on one end and two ¼” TS connectors on the 
other end..  This jack is covered in detail on page 42. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3.  Mic/Line or Guitar Switch (Channels 1-2 only) – 
Channels 1 and 2 of  your IO|14/26 allow you to switch in a 
specially designed, high-impedance circuit optimized for 
recording an electric guitar or bass.  If  you’re recording a 
microphone or a line-level instrument (keyboard, sampler, DJ 
mixer, etc.) then set this switch to “Mic/Line.”  If  you’re 
recording a guitar or bass with passive (standard) pickups, set 
this input to “Guitar.” 
 
 
4.  Gain Knobs – These knobs let you set the preamplifier gain 
level.  Set the gain with the aid of  the meters on the front of  
the IO14/26.  Start with the gain knob turned all the way 
down (counterclockwise); then slowly turn up the gain until 
the green LEDs are often illuminated and the yellow LED 
only illuminates when you play your loudest notes.  At this 
point.   
 
If  the red LED is lighting up (even occasionally), it means the 
gain is set too high and that you’re distorting your signal.  
Turn the gain knob back down as necessary in order to avoid 
this distortion. 
 
Analog and digital distortion 
are totally unrelated 
phenomena.   
 
Whereas certain kinds of 
analog distortion (from 
guitar amplifiers, stomp 
boxes, etc.) can sound 
pleasing, digital distortion 
sounds awful.  If your 
IO|14/26’s meters are going 
into the red (even every once 
in a while), it means you’re 
digitally distorting your 
signal.  Turn down the 
channel gain in these cases. 
It’s OK to set your gain levels 
conservatively with the IO|14 
and IO|26.  These interfaces 
feature outstanding analog-
to-digital converters and 
preamplifiers, allowing you 
to capture excellent 
recordings even if your 
signals peak at -9dB (or even 
lower).