M4: quiet output from Monitor out, can't get line out working? - RESOLVED

[Zipdog1]

Hello!
I'm using an M4 connected to a mini PC by USB C running Win. 11 and playing plugin instruments through Gig Performer.
I've been using the Monitor output, but the MOTU is struggling to keep up with my hardware synth (Yamaha MODX8). Headphone monitor on the M4 sounds excellent with plenty of gain.

Wondering if I could get more gain from the line out, I plugged in and can't get those outputs working. I'm sure its something obvious I've missed in the manual. I've downloaded latest drivers, but can't seem to find controls on the PC for selecting an output? Could use a steer on this. Also, I'm using TRS cables for monitor out and believe I should do the same for line out, provided I can get it going.

The TRS cables run into a Radial Key Largo mixer/DI, where I'm mixing hardware (MODX) and software instruments (VSTs).
I may just have to goose the monitor out dial on the front panel (currently set at about 2:00).

Welcome all feedback. I've had the M4 for a few months, but since it worked out of the box, I've only updated the drivers and didn't notice the gain difference between hardware and software until I ran them together for the first time a couple of weeks ago.

[mikehalloran]

Gain on the analog Line Out, like the Line In is fixed. They are intended to be connected to other line level devices only.

The documentation is a little confusing when it states "14. Connect these balanced, DC-coupled quarter-inch outputs
to your studio speakers, PA or other desired audio destination…" as this suggests that the Monitor knob controls the level for both the Monitor and Line outs. "5. Volume control for the MONITOR outputs on the back panel" actually controls both the 1/4" and RCA Monitor Out jacks, not the Line.

Similar confusion exists in the Inputs where it states: "Connect a keyboard or other similar line level audio source." Ok except that most keyboards are instrument level instead and should be connected to the CombiJacks.

There is a workaround and that is to use a passive or active line lever transformer or DI to boost levels of the Line I/Os. Some active units include a volume control to get the level where you want it. My favorites are these:

Passive: Morley or Ebtech Line Level Shifter. Same unit sold under two names. Built like a brick and a great sounding stereo transformer. The TRS and XLR jacks run parallel which makes things convenient eliminating the need for XLR–TRS conversion cables. There is an older TRS only version using the same transformer that shows up in the used market.
https://www.amazon.com/Morley-MLLS-2-ch ... B08NQ1SMTJ

Active: Radial J+4 can match anything to anything else, IMO. May need XLR–TRS conversion cables
https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail ... vel-driver

Both have been around long enough to be readily available used.

[Zipdog1]

Thank you Mike!
I managed to resolve my issue last night.
I use Gig Performer as my host software. I went into the audio settings and routed outputs to ch 3 & 4 (= line out on the M4). The level I got was very strong and more than sufficient for my application. In fact, where I previously had to dial back my MODX to match the software synths, I'm now running the MODX at its usual level and dialing back the software synths to level set between the two. Happy camper!!

[mikehalloran]

Thank you Mike!
I managed to resolve my issue last night.
I use Gig Performer as my host software. I went into the audio settings and routed outputs to ch 3 & 4 (= line out on the M4). The level I got was very strong and more than sufficient for my application. In fact, where I previously had to dial back my MODX to match the software synths, I'm now running the MODX at its usual level and dialing back the software synths to level set between the two. Happy camper!!

Thanks for reporting back. I recommend editing your original post and adding the word, RESOLVED, to the title. This will help others Googling for help on similar issues.

Happy New Year!

[James Steele]

I recommend editing your original post and adding the word, RESOLVED, to the title. This will help others Googling for help on similar issues.

Just did that.