Using 2nd path for vocals...

[themetallikid]

Is using a Gain block essentially the same as the 'Gain' parameter on the vocal preamp model?  It seems for me to get my mic hot enough to sing comfortably....during a few songs (probably how my voice projects) i get some slight distortion .   I'm monitoring my guitar vocals directly into a powered wedge from the 1/4" out, controlled volume wise by the volume knob and then running my XLR to the mixer.  

 

On the Vocal Preamp (Helix is in the car packed yet) I believe I'm on 10 for the output volume and the gain is around 6.5-7.5 I believe.  I hear it and I keep reducing the gain, but its still there on those few songs.  Is it better to have the gain higher and a lower output level?  Or would an extra gain block get me a more cleaner sound.  

 

Its not horrible distortion or even really a nasty clipping sound...that I know for sure.  Its sorta like if you try and add a slight amount of grit to an acoustic guitar...you get the clean signal, but then a little dirt mixed in.  I'm thinking its coming from the gain parameter in the vocal preamp block....would adding an additional gain block after the preamp or just replacing it entirely be better?

[silverhead]

Have you checked the Gain setting for your Mic Input (see Global Settings)?

[themetallikid]

Ooh yes thats a good check too....forgot about that setting.  I remember seeing it, but usually dont dig into my globals once much they are set.  Been awhile since I did the vocal thing in the Helix.  I will check that tonight.