DR-05x distortion when recording our band

[Nightflyer]

Hi,
I'm new here and recently bought the DR-05x because a friend has a DR-05 and it worked great for recording our oldies rock band gigs. When using my recorder the first time, I sat it on a shelf about 60 feet from the band and recorded the 3 hour performance. When I plugged into my computer and opened the file with Audacity, the sound is distorted. I'm wondering what settings I should use to get a clean sound.
Thanks for any help.

 

[shredd]

Learn about "gain staging".
I'm no rocket surgeon, but I'll bet you a bag of pucks you're overloading your inputs.

 

[Arjan P]

Also, a good source would be the friend with the DR-05. What was his trick to avoid distortion in similar circumstanes? Another tip: check your levels with a test recording before starting the 3-hour session.

 

[Nightflyer]

I watched some YouTube videos and adjusted the levels down as recommended. Tonight's job turned out fine. Thanks

 

[shredd]

I watched some YouTube videos and adjusted the levels down as recommended. Tonight's job turned out fine