Synth headphone out to Model 12 input

[GlennM]

Hello! I would like to purchase a micro synth such as a little AKAI or Behringer unit in order to enhance my efforts in making music on the Model 12. These micro synths equip with a headphone out, but no line out , nor instrument outs. My question is basic. Can I use the headphone output from a micro-synth patched to an input channel on my model 12? Will I need to:
1. make a splitter cable to convert one TRS connector into two TS connectors for connection from synth to Model 12?
2. WIll the headphone out signal be too strong or weak for the Model 12's input?
3. If too weak, what is a good option for raising that signal?
4. Is there something I should be asking but have missed owing to my inexperience?

Your reply is sincerely appreciated!

Glenn

 

[Mark Richards]

@GlennM, I'm not a user/owner, but the issue is pretty generic.

As a general rule it's ok to run a low impedance output (headphone: 8 Ohm) into a high impedance line input (Model 12: 22 kOhms). You may get some noticeable line noise with no signal present, but that can usually be masked by the actual audio signal coming in if gain staged properly.

If synth out is mono:
The cable would be TS (synth) --> TS Model 12 (one mono channel).

If synth out is stereo:
The cable would be TRS (synth) split to TS (R) and TS (L) --> Model 12 (two mono channels); or perhaps TRS (synth) --> TRS Model 12 (1 stereo channel) might work.

Gain stage (balance) the incoming signal using the synth headphone volume control first and then the Model 12 Gain knob to fine tune the level.

Keep the track meter level to an average of about -18 dBFS and max peak of -12 dBFS; keep an eye on the overload LED.

ps you don't need to make a breakout cable. there are several brands available like this and this on Amazon, and many brick and mortar audio stores. Keep it 6 feet or less. Look for HOSA brand cables if available.