So; I am running into an issue where my final out on the audio chain is too loud and distorted sounding, so when it hits the limiter on the transmitter, its already pretty harsh sounding.
Any ideas on limiting the output volume in the chain - something so that if a DJ cranks up the master volume or a channel on the desk it does not cause distortion?
My chain is:
computer A to mixer
mixer to y-cable
y-cable-A to computer B for streaming, streaming processing
y-cable-B to CRL-SPF-300
CRL SPF-300 to ground loop isolator
ground loop isolator to studio box (for procaster) - the box is set to 2:1 compression and limiting is a hard limiter. Although, this does no good when the audio is coming in all harsh and nasty.
Hi mir:
I drew out a diagram based on your routing description, and I am guessing that what you are calling "final out on audio chain" is the output from the mixer.
I am guessing that the output from the mixer is set to 0dB or +4dB output level, but the equipment on both legs of the Y-splitter are intended for -10dB consumer level, and are being over-driven.
Pad down the mixer out so it is set for -10dB signal level.
Bingo. I bet that fixes it. Thanks!
Just a quick sketch of the audio chain as it is... 
STRPC01 is the computer that streams output from the mixer to the dirty internet.
STRPC02 is the computer that handles automation
SPF-300 is a CRL pre-emphasis thingy.
RS GroundLoop isolator is.. a ground loop isolator 🙂
And the PROCASTER STUDIO BOX is the little box that controls modulation (not a modulator, by the way.. that lives in the transmitter box on the roof), audio gain, and compression.
Hi all-
My advice is to scrap the Y cables and go USB. There may be an impedance thing going on that you'll have trouble nulling. Analog to USB devices are pretty cheap (under $50?) and well worth it.
Are you using the CRL before the stream? Just curious. Is there preemphasis on that box & a 10.5kHz rolloff?
I was in radio programming for many years. Your best bet is to find an old Aphex compellor for the level issues. First thing out of the board. I would then move the CRL to right before the Procaster and out of the stream setup. That way it's one less division before the stream and you could process in the computer with Breakaway or Stereo Tool and blow the doors off.. so to speak.
Just my two cents...
Also... even better than analog to USB convertors ... is a USB mixer. Like a Behringer XENYX USB series. They even have mono-compression on the mike pots.
My hope is to remove the computer controlled stuff completely. For me personally, I really don't like any of the mixer/usb combos.. and I LOVE the feel of the older analog stuff..