Please help to understand the INPUT LEVEL range with Tascam DR-40

[mic37]

i've got the Tascam DR-40 2 weeks ago and never paid attention on this issue previously: when adjusting the input level of the internal microphones using the INPUT LEVEL + or – buttons the level can be changed only from "0" to "90". It cannot be set at 100. Please let me know if it is normal or not. Is the range from “0” to “90” represent a percentage or something else?

Please see the attached image: When I set a max input level, the display shows: INT MIC LVL 90
The recorder has the latest firmware and was reset a few times.

 

[mic37]

I've sent my question to TASCAM a week ago and no response.
Anybody is able to answer my question here?

 

[JSchmo_Bass]

My unit is the same. I don’t know why it’s that way but keep in mind that for External the preamp has both a mic and line level staged input.

I get the best results recording my (admittedly loud) band by using quite low settings on both

Internal Mic’s 10-15

External - line, 12-15 taking the signal out from our PA mixers via TRS cables

This puts my meters average over midway with no clipping, and a great sound upon mixdown and replay on other equipment.

 

[mic37]

JSchmo_Bass,
Thanks for the response!

 

[Geoffrey Kolbe]

Mine is the same. I imagine the graduations are in dba...?

 

[BazzBass]

if it went to 100 then that would need an extra display thingamajig, maybe it's to save display area.