![]() To understand how we can use a transformer to attenuate the signal, let’s look at how transformers work. Modified and reused under the GNU Free Documentation License However, since we’re already using a transformer to address the other two problems of reamping, we might as well use it to reduce the voltage as well. The clear choice for attenuating voltage (“volume” in audio) in terms of cost and complexity is a couple of resistors set up as a voltage divider. So, in order to to mimic the output level of an average guitar, we need to attenuate our line-level signal somewhat before sending it to an amp. ![]() Guitar signals, on the other hand, vary between a few tens of millivolts rms to 1 Vrms or slightly more depending on the pickup. The nominal level for a professional line-level signals is +4dBu, or approximately 1.2 Volts rms. Let’s look at the ways a humble audio matching transformer can make reamping a consistent and transparent process. emulating line and instrument impedances Īs so rarely happens in audio and electronics, there is a cheap, simple, and ideal solution to all of these problems: an audio transformer.interfacing balanced and unbalanced gear.In order to do this, we need a device that addresses the following issues: However, what we want is to be able to plug any line-level device into any instrument-level input and have it sound right every time. This is true in many cases, simply plugging the output of your interface into an amp and crossing your fingers is good enough. Ernie Ball Music Man makes a wide variety of both passive and active basses, which you can learn more about at do we need a reamping box? People have been plugging line-level signals into guitar amps since long before the first reamping box hit the market, often with good results. ![]() The VerdictĪs you can see, passive and active electronics both have aspects that will appeal to different types of musicians its up to the player to decide what they prefer, and which instrument best suits their needs. By starting with the controls of an active configuration already rolled off to some degree, the instrument has a far greater tonal spectrum in which to operate. When rolling off volume and tone from a passive configuration in the “dimed” position (all controls set to 10), the sound almost immediately loses much of its frequency range. ![]() It’s important to note that, although an instrument may be equipped with active electronics, this does not mean the instrument cannot achieve passive-style tones. Typically the types of EQ are 2-band (bass and treble), 3-band (bass, mids, treble), or 4-band (bass, low mid, high mid and treble).īecause the active electronics configuration requires more parts, as well as a source of power, the back of the instrument’s body will typically include a control plate for easy access to the components as well as a slot for one or more 9V batteries. Since the signal on active pickups is boosted, all those frequencies can either be cut or boosted, allowing you to mix in more bass, mids, or treble to your tone. Active pickup EQs work in the same way, with knobs assigned to control the level of bass, mids, or treble, depending on the type of EQ your instrument will have. Most car stereos will have an option to control the level of bass, treble, or mid sound frequencies that are put out of your speakers. To understand what the EQ does, consider your car stereo. In some cases, this preamp also acts as an equalizer (EQ). ![]() Additionally, this power source allows the signal to travel significantly further through extended lengths of cable without experiencing any signal degradation. The preamp acts as a buffer, enabling the instrument’s pickups and electronics to deliver their true tonal character to the attached cable and out to the amplifier. This power source is typically a 9-volt battery that is housed within the instrument. Simply put, guitars or basses that have “active” electronics use a power source to power an onboard preamp. Passive basses can lose signal strength when connected through longer instrument cables, whereas in active basses the output is buffered, and the output will remain consistent through almost all cable lengths. One of the other factors between passive and active basses is cable length. Mike on Ernie Ball Music Man New for 2021.Ernie Ball on Ernie Ball Music Man New for 2021.Pool Kids Hits the Road On Tour After Signing with Hayley Williams in this Exclusive Q&A.The Newest Generation of Punk: An Interview with the Linda Lindas.Behind the Music with The Used – An Exclusive Interview with Joey Bradford. ![]()
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