I’m trying to use Zynthian as an effects processor, connected to my keyboard. It works but the output level is very low, even with the keyboard volume at its maximum level. I know the keyboard output is fine because other dedicated FX pedal works fine.
I’m thinking about changing the config of the input gain from zero to +12db, has anyone changed this default setting. It is done via jumpers on the Hifiberry board.
My Zynthian is a v3 with Hifiberry DAC+ ADC HW 1.2.
So you have a HifiBerry DAC+ADC “Standard”. This model has a “suboptimal” balanced input. Is balanced your keyboard’s output? Are you using the "balanced mono TRS jack " or the “unbalanced stereo minijack” input?
Anyway, try to increase the gain by 12dB or 32dB with the jumpers setting. It’s well documented in the HB site:
The alsa mixer settings were right, with high level output, but that gave me a hint and I went checking the FX config, founding low dry/wet output levels.
So the wiring is correct, I have now stereo input with separate standard jacks and there is no need to change the input gain, the default 0 dB is fine for line level.
No, the level configuration is the same for both channels.
As for the guitar, I never tried but I have an acoustic-electric guitar, I’ll try it and let you know if it works. Since it has a built in pre-amp, I think it will deliver higher level than a standard electric guitar with passive circuitry - maybe the input gain boost will not be necessary.
I tested with an electric-acoustic guitar and it seems that some additional gain is really necessary. I didn’t try to change the gain from the default 0 dB but it is clear that some boost is required for such kind of instrument.
