Master output lights almost in clip and the master fader below 0 db

SQ SQ Feature Suggestions
1

Hello i have a problem with me sq

The master fader is below 0 db

And de lights are almost in red

Does anybody have te samen problem?

2

When you say the lights are almost in the red, do you mean the main master meter?

If so:

  • What are the input levels like on whatever input channels you are using?
  • What levels are the input channel faders at?
  • Are you also sending channels to groups while still sending them to the LR?
  • Have you done any processing? Compressors with excessive make-up gain? Channel EQ with excessive frequency boosts?
  • Is your GEQ flat? Frequencies removed? Boosting any frequencies?

Any/most of these can contribute to a higher than anticipated output level on the main master.

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3

Turning levels down one place and turning them up some where else up stream could be the issue…proper gain structure.

Assuming the mixer is driving a PA maybe the gain of the PA needs to be increased.

ShadowSound hits lots of good points.

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4

The master fader and meter will be a sum of all the channels going into it. So either of these are correct:

  1. Any one input is high possibly near clipping, meaning this one needs pulled down a bit
  2. All input faders are higher and needing pulled down a bit
  3. It may be even at the input gain being higher than required

Myself, I would start at the beginning of each channel strip. The way I set gains is having that input come in as normal, unmute it and use PAFL to get that signal into the big meter right next to the touch screen. Dial gain to have it touch yellow. Check all meters involved with this channel strip. Then move to the next and repeat this dialing of gain for each. Something like drums can hit somewhat higher in the yellow. Don’t forget to undo PAFL afterwards.

Next, you’ll balance everything with your faders. So be aware, if all your faders are up, this addition of all your inputs will push the master meter up. You can only push the cumulative all inputs up so much.

As mentioned, you must account for EQ boosts and compressor gain settings. These will push up your cumulative overall output.

Near Red can be OK on the master meter, at Red is too close for my comfort.

Look at you whole board for any actual clip lights. This will highlight your trouble spot.