Topic: Mic vs. line for multi-track sbd recording?

[checht]

I'm researching options for multi-track recording with MOTU firewire interfaces, and trying to pick between units with just a couple mic pre's and units with a pre for each channel. I'll want at least a couple of pre's to run my ambient pair.

If I assemble a system to record mic ins, I'll need to run isolation transormers off the stage feeds, and then route signal into mic pre's on the firewire interface. To avoid dragging the transformers, couldn't I patch into pre-fader outs on the FOH console, and run line-in on the interface?

I'm wondering whether it's reasonable to rely on there being an available pre-fader out per channel? AFAIK, I'd need to either use one aux bus per channel, or grab the send half of an insert loop.

Any mixer-types or chronic sbd patchers have an opinion, or advice?

Thanks, Chris

EDIT: I'm planning 8 or 16 tracks, depending on $$$

[ianstone]

well i guess it all depends on how many tracks you are planning to record., and i'd think it depends on where you are planning to record and how capable their gear is. Although you could patch into pre-fader outs, can you count on that being an option all of the time? I'd want to have the transformers on hand just in case... always come prepared

I know with the 744t you could easily do two tracks with mic-in (and phantom if needed) whereas the other two tracks would be line-in

and then you can xfer via firewire later... if you only need 4 tracks, its a viable option and you will probably wind up toting around less shit.

ALOHA!!!

[checht]

Damn, Ian, you're fast on the reply 

[mmmatt]

I almost always take the inserts... some consoles have seperate jacks for in and out (yamaha I think) and that is easily done with a 1/4" to 1/4" cable (just make sure the engineer turns the insert "on").  The bulk of the boards have a little trickier setup with the traditional stereo (send/return) type 1/4" jack.
   By making a cable that is mono on one end and stereo on the other this can be done.  The trick is to cross the tip and ring at the stereo end and keep the cables around 10' long (to avoid noise because it is unballanced).  This is known as an "insert tap cable" and it works great as long as the insert isn't being used.  Basically you are opening up the send and running it right back into the return at the jack itself and taping it with your cable to get the signal.  The feed off the insert is ALWAYS pre fader and is probably the cleanest feed you can take from the console.  Some other direct outs or channel outs can be confusing from brand to brand.  I will actually take the main inserts for a stereo feed if I can get them... very clean feed.  Never had a problem with a console not liking the cables or whatever... just make sure you can solder reall well.

Matt