Helix to mixer to monitor question

[jeffcrm7]

Im running helix lt to a yamaha mg6x with stereo XLR, then from the mixer to two JBL LRS308s, again with XLR. What is the best output level from the Helix for this configuration and should I use any Gain or the Pad option on my mixer? And would -10db be proper on the JBL's or is the +4 db setting more appropriate? Thanks in advance, I'm not sure if this is a dumb question, I'm new to mixers and modelers.

[rd2rk]

Here's how I do this. While there are other ways to do it, I consider this method as "Best Practice", and adaptable to most situations.

 

Use XLR cables because they are BALANCED and the Helix (Floor, LT and Rack) 1/4" OUTS are NOT (HXSTOMP OUTS ARE balanced). This minimizes noise and allows for longer cable runs if necessary.

In Helix Globals, set the XLR OUT to MIC (weak signal). Set the BIG KNOB to 1/4".

That sends a steady Unity Gain signal to the board via XLR while allowing you to control the 1/4" out level separately for stage monitoring.

 

On the board, set PAD and HPF to OFF (button OUT), and the GAIN knob fully counter-clockwise (left), MAIN volume OFF.

Hit a big ole "A" (or E or G, I like A) chord as hard as you normally play and SLOWLY turn up the GAIN knob until the PEAK light flashes, then turn it down a notch.

If the GAIN goes past 3/4 without lighting the PEAK light, reset and start over with the Helix XLR OUT set to LINE.

You want a strong signal with the lowest pre-amp (GAIN) setting possible to minimize noise. Yamaha pre-amps are excellent but, again, "Best Practice".

 

With Helix XLR OUT set to LINE and the GAIN knob on the board set fully counter-clockwise (left), repeat from the "A".

if the PEAK light flashes right away set the PAD button ON.

Repeat from the "A".

 

The board's OUTPUTS are LINE Level. Set the monitors to -10db. If you're not getting enough volume with the board's Channel levels set to UNITY (the little triangle) and the MAIN Level Indicator at the top of the green/occasionally lighting the first yellow, try the +4db setting.

 

That should get it!

 

[jeffcrm7]

Thank you so much, I realized after the fact that I should have learned how to use my mixer before setting it and my new monitors up. Mic level is definitely the piece I was missing. These stereo effects are incredible, hopefully I'll have an empty house soon to really test it out.