TASCAM 32SD noisy channel and low signal output when using mic

[Loren]

Hi:

I just began using my TASCAM 32SD. I'm able to record a direct guitar track with no problem. When I try connecting a mic to the XLR input in the back of the board, however, I hear a lot of channel noise, and the signal I'm recording sounds very soft. I've tried using both a dynamic mic (no phantom power) and a condenser mic (with phantom power) with similar results. Does anyone know what might be causing this problem? Thanks in advance for your help.

Loren.

 

[-mjk-]

Hi @Loren and welcome to the Tascam Forums. Sorry you're having issues. Let's try some troubleshooting:

Have you verified that your mic signals are clean by using another device with them?

What is common with both mics? The cable perhaps? Does this occur on all 8 inputs? Have you swapped cables and channels?

Where is your trim knob set? Unity gain is about 1 o'clock.

 

[Phil Tipping]

Note that unity gain setting is only true if you're using the 1/4" sockets, not XLR.

 

[-mjk-]

@Phil Tipping noted. Thanks for the reminder.

 

[Loren]

Phil and MJK:

Thanks so much for responding. Phil, thanks also for the fantastic videos that have already been helpful in getting me started. Problem solved! The culprit turned out to be an errant mic cable. Once replaced, both the dynamic and condenser mics came through loud and clear with no noticeable hiss or background noise. Thankfully, there is no problem whatsoever with the 32SD. Thanks again for your help!

Best,

Loren.

 

[Phil Tipping]

Thanks for the follow-up Loren; glad you got it going. Good luck with your music projects.

 

[-mjk-]

Phil and MJK:

The culprit turned out to be an errant mic cable. Once replaced, both the dynamic and condenser mics came through loud and clear with no noticeable hiss or background noise. Thankfully, there is no problem whatsoever with the 32SD. Thanks again for your help!

Alright! Thanks for letting us know the results. Now, go make some music!