"Clive Backham" wrote in message


I typically set up for -3dB on what I think are the loudest sections,
and have yet to see an unexpected peak blow the headroom.

My level set technique is 3 dB below the loudest signal from a trackability
test record.

But recording LPs gives you the ability to set up levels at leisure.

Well, if at first you don't succeed...

If you're into live recording you don't have that luxury, and in that
case I totally agree that you need to run with additional headroom.

(But in that case, it's debatable if the AP2496 is the right card for
live recording).

I don't see why that would have to be true, given that you set levels
accordingly.

However, an argument can be constructed saying that since most mic pres and
consoles are optimized for +4, setting levels to more like -10 gives up some
of the SNR potential of the electronics driving the AP2496.

Then, whether its a problem or not is determined by the performance of the
equipment driving it. If it was a problem, a simple 10 dB attenuator would
make up the difference. However, I'm finding that attenuators, and knowledge
of how and when to use them is not all that common. Better to use equipment
optimized for the purpose at hand.

....and that's why I say that the AP2496 is not really an optimum choice for
audio production. But for old, experienced hands it shouldn't be a problem.