Should I use "Line" or "Inst" for my Rode NT1-A?

[killmaster]

Hi there,

I'm using my NT1-A with a Scarlett 2i2 audio interface using an XLR cable and I have the option of selecting Line or Inst level. Which should I be using please?

I can't seem to find this info online googling or in the NT1-A and 2i2 manuals.

Thank you!

Greg

[vurt]

wrong

[BertKoor]

Mic !!

Me thinks the switch is for impedance, not gain. Then "line" (low impedance) is what you want. "Inst" is for electric guitars with high impedance.

Btw synths are often low impedance, so Line not Inst.

[killmaster]

Hmm, is a little confusing. Here's what the manual says:

"Inputs 1 & 2 – Combo XLR input sockets - connect microphones, instruments (e.g., guitar) or line level signals via XLR or 1⁄4” (6.35 mm) jacks as appropriate
LINE/INST - Line / Instrument level switches for each input – switches gain to suit instrument or line level signals"

I'm using phantom power with the NT1-A also. Switching between line and inst doesn't make any audible difference to me.

[killmaster]

wrong

Thank you for clarifying!

[BertKoor]

You might hear a difference when a high-impedance thing is connected. The other way around is usually not so audible.

[FranklyFlawless]

Hi there,

I'm using my NT1-A with a Scarlett 2i2 audio interface using an XLR cable and I have the option of selecting Line or Inst level. Which should I be using please?

I can't seem to find this info online googling or in the NT1-A and 2i2 manuals.

Thank you!

Greg

You should not be using either. Connect to either channels using the XLR Male cable, then press the 48V button on the front to turn on the phantom power. The "48V" text should highlight red. Use the respective Gain knob on the right of the channel's input to increase or decrease the gain level.

If you ever need to disconnect your microphone, press the 48V button to turn off the phantom power. The "48V" text should be grey, with no red backlight. Then unplug the XLR Male cable from whichever channel you inserted.

[Constructed Identity]

The above is correct. My interface says Mic Line Instr. - they are three different things used differently.

[BertKoor]

My interface says Mic Line Instr.

Do you have the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2? It is somewhat different.

2nd gen:


3rd gen:


From the manual:

Screenshot_20230424-080133_Samsung Notes.jpg

[jamcat]

Neutrik combo connectors combine two totally separate inputs in a single socket. The XLR input is +4dBu, and the line is +10dBV. When you select between instrument or line, this only affects the 1/4" input. It does not apply to the XLR input at all. Just as the +48V phantom power only applies to the XLR input, and does not send 48 volts to your guitar cable.

[killmaster]

My interface says Mic Line Instr.

Do you have the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2? It is somewhat different.

2nd gen:


3rd gen:


From the manual:Screenshot_20230424-080133_Samsung Notes.jpg

Thanks! Mine is 1st Gen.

[killmaster]

Neutrik combo connectors combine two totally separate inputs in a single socket. The XLR input is +4dBu, and the line is +10dBV. When you select between instrument or line, this only affects the 1/4" input. It does not apply to the XLR input at all. Just as the +48V phantom power only applies to the XLR input, and does not send 48 volts to your guitar cable.

This is an important distinction and I suspected this was the case. Thanks for clarifying it!!