XLR and TRS, difference in output levels?

mirflee

New Member
Hey all, I found something a little odd today when I had the AX8 hooked up to my Saffire Interface. I’m getting a huge difference in levels. It was significantly louder if I ran it via XLR as compared to the typical 1/4” output on the AX8. I had to turn the gain up on the Saffire to match the XLR.

Is there something I’m missing or is it common knowledge that using the XLR is louder?

Thanks!
 
XlR is likely mic level while the 1/4” is instrument level

Nothing different on the Ax8 outputs, just how your interface is amplifying the inputs
 
The XLRs send out a balanced line level signal, while the jacks send out an unbalanced signal. The difference should be cirka 3 dB, unless you are talking about the Out 2 jacks.
 
The XLRs send out a balanced line level signal, while the jacks send out an unbalanced signal. The difference should be cirka 3 dB, unless you are talking about the Out 2 jacks.

The difference between an unbalanced and balanced (differential) signal, all else being equal, should be 6dB (double the voltage). ;)
 
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