Re: Finally pulled the trigger on a StudioLive 24.4.2
The more I use the board and get used to the metering and level setting, the easier it is to set up level gain staging throughout the console. It has been the same (if a bit more pronounced) as switching from one brand/level of analog console to another. Each design would seem to be a bit different than the others and require the operator to learn precisely the optimum input levels, channel levels, summing amp limitations, etc.
I don't think your situation is unique to the SLive or any other board. It is simply where you are at with the console. You could stay there if it's working for you or strive to get the flow leveled out a bit more. Just remember that the -15 is in digital dB where you can go no higher than 0 (digital max or clip) and the mains output meters are reading in "regular" old dBs......where 0 is 16 or more db short of clip.
It's a bit strange at first having the two metering systems on one desk, but pretty easy to get used to after a bit of use.
And it matters quite a bit how much of a system you're feeding with it. The more power you have available in the system, the less you'll end up running up in the yellow LED's.
If I'm running into the yellow with the master fader(s) at 0 I'll back off the channels a bit and balance things up if I have to. But I don't mind running the master at -10 if I have to. It'll stay clean up to the last yellow LED and that's enough reserve power for me.
Hope this answers your question.
