Difference between revisions of "Pad"
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=== Daisy Chaining {{PS1}}s === | === Daisy Chaining {{PS1}}s === | ||
| − | Another application (although relatively rare) is if you want to daisy | + | Another application (although relatively rare) is if you want to connect the output of one {{PS1}} to input of another. Sometimes called ''daisy chain''ing, you can connect the Line-Out of one {{PS1}} to Channel 1 or 2 of another. In that case you probably want to have a -20 dB pad inline, between the Line-Out of the first System and the Channel 1 or 2 XLR input of the second. See [[PS1 Powerstand/Daisy Chain]] for more information. |
You can find separate attenuation pads like this: | You can find separate attenuation pads like this: | ||
Revision as of 13:03, 20 November 2006
Q: What is a Pad?
A "pad" is short for an "Attenuation Pad".
This is a device used to lower the signal level between two other devices.
Padding PS1 Power Stand (Classic) / Model I Inputs
We use pads with our PS1 Power Stand (Classic) / Model Is when running a pro level +4 dBu signal (e.g. output from a mixer) to the XLR inputs on Channels 1 or 2. We want to do this because the input sensitivity for these inputs is set for microphones. To get a better match for levels between the source and our inputs, we can use a pad.
Pads can also help when connecting the PS1 Line Outs to semi-pro or consumer recording devices. If the PS1 Line Outs are too hot for the recorder's inputs, a pad can be used to prevent overdriving those inputs into (clipping) distortion.
A -20dB pad is also a good choice when connecting the PS1 Line Outs to a house PA, or other off-stage system. This would ensure that the house mixing console's inputs can handle the signal level without being overdriven into distortion, especially if the house console has insufficient built-in pads, or none at all. (Beware of the potential for Ground Loops here.)
Daisy Chaining PS1 Power Stand (Classic) / Model Is
Another application (although relatively rare) is if you want to connect the output of one PS1 Power Stand (Classic) / Model I to input of another. Sometimes called daisy chaining, you can connect the Line-Out of one PS1 Power Stand (Classic) / Model I to Channel 1 or 2 of another. In that case you probably want to have a -20 dB pad inline, between the Line-Out of the first System and the Channel 1 or 2 XLR input of the second. See PS1 Powerstand/Daisy Chain for more information.
You can find separate attenuation pads like this:
Cost: $20-30 on the web
Sources:
- http://www.proaudiosolutions.com/product_p/impad20.htm
- http://www.musiciansbuy.com/WHIRLWIND_IMPAD20_IMPEDANCE_CONVERTERIMPAD20.html
- You might find something like this in a local music store if they have a Pro Audio department.
This an example, and you will want to look into the details to determine if you need a pad, and the kinds of connections that are appropriate for your input device.
More Formal Definitions
"attenuator or attenuator pad Electronics. A passive network that reduces the voltage (or power; see usage note under gain) level of a signal with negligible distortion, but with insertion loss. Often a purely resistive network, although any combination of inductors, resistors and capacitors are possible, a pad may also provide impedance matching."
References: