How to connect computer to sound board?

[TimCha]

Hi
In the near future, Ive had a desire to start recording digitally on the computer when I learn all of the sound system basics?
We use a Mackie VLZ pro 32 channel system.
I am not sure what cord to run from the computer to the sound board and where to hook up the computer in the back of the sound system!!!
First, what cord do I need to run from the computer to the sound system?
Second, where on the back of the sound board do I hook up the computer?

Thanks, Tim

[Gene]

With a similar set up (VLZ 24), we use Aux Send 5 for recording. It's post-fader, so changes to the channel faders effect the output. And each channel can be adjusted within the recording mix to compensate for louder or quieter voices and instruments.

On the back the mixer there are 1/4" jacks for Aux 1-6 (above the power cord, near the left edge of the mixer as you're looking at it from the back). Your computer likely has an 1/8" jack for 'line in' (as well as another for 'mic in'). You may be able to just get a 1/4" to 1/8" cable and connect the mixer to the sound card that way.

However, you may find that there's a hum, or too much noise, or a distorted signal, depending on your particular setup. There are solutions to those problems, the most common being inserting a DI (direct box) between the mixer and the computer which lets you separate the grounds.

[Ebroach]

Originally Posted by timcha

Hi

First, what cord do I need to run from the computer to the sound system?
Second, where on the back of the sound board do I hook up the computer?

Thanks, Tim

Well that depends Do you have Tape OUT jacks on the back of the sound board. Most Yamaha's do (which is what I am used to) On my SB's they have RCA Tape OUT jacks.

I am involved in a smller church so our $$ was limited.

I have attached two JPGs. showing How I have done it.

One is just connecting a sound board and PC using a RCA jacks to min plug cable. Simple Tape Out to LINE IN on the PC.

The second one shows a bit more complex. I use a 1 in 4 out Video/Audio Dist Amp (Radio Shack $49.95) Come out the Tape OUT of the SB and go in the Audio IN on the V/A DA. Then that gives me 4 audio outs for LIne on PC, Audio On on a VCR/DVD recorder and two more for whatever or multiples.

The Video in also give me some options also (IE recording on the VCR/DVD etc.

I Use EZTracker to record the sermon on the PC. Of which I have a $100 bucks invested in a PIII 30 gig 256 Meg PC with a CD burner that does a super job. I use a KVM switch to save desktop space . The primary computer is for Easy Worship and the PIII is for recording.

Works Great.

On one other Sound Board that I work with that does not have Tape OUT RCA jacks I use two Group OUTs (not using them for any other reason) This has allowed me to create home grown Split Tracks.

[TimCha]

Thanks all for your helpful advice!!!
Where is this EZtracker? I cant seem to find it on the net.
Thanks Tim

[jsharris83]

What we are using is a Presonus Inspire firewire audio interface. It comes with lots of recording software as well. It has on the front 2 multi use inputs. Meaning you could use 1/4" or XLR but not at the same time. You can record both multi input one and 2 at the same time though. On the back is a RCA in and out. So if you went from rca out on your SB you just go straight into the RCA on the back of the Inspire. You control the input levels through a software program that looks like the inspire. It also has a headphone out if you want to check the mix to see how it sounds. You wouldnt need a DI to go in between but you do need to make sure that you have a firewire input on your pc. There are also some usb models that you can use but I would stick with firewire if possible. They have this at GuitarCenter as well for the same price. http://www.musiciansfriend.com/produ...ace?sku=241483

[jsharris83]

Originally Posted by Ebroach

I use a 1 in 4 out Video/Audio Dist Amp (Radio Shack $49.95)

I have to say that I am very tempted to give that Distribution amp a try. That looks pretty awsome. We record straight to dvd on our PC using instant DVD creator from Pinnacle. Thanks that really helps me out.

[TimCha]

What kind of Direct box would be best for this?
I looked at Sweetwater.com and they have a standard Direct box, would that be correct one?
Thanks Tim

[sien]

I like the Radial Pro AV1.
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/ProAV1/

[TimCha]

Thats an expensive box!!!
There is so many connections on it, where would you hook up the cord to run to the mixer and the DI box to the computer?
Thanks Tim

[Gene]

Before investing in a new direct box, I'd try going with a cable directly, using either the hookup ebroach described or the one I described. The cable is about $5.

[TimCha]

Ok
Thank you Gene, I will do that!!!
Tim

[Gene]

Let us know how it goes. If you find there's too much noise, or too strong or too weak a signal, or whatever, then you can think about more expensive solutions