The iD44 MKii has a pair of insert sends and return connections on the first two inputs of the device. These can be used to either add a compressor in line with the pre-amplifier of the iD44 or alternatively bypass the pre-amplifier entirely.
To use the iD44 with an external pre-amplifier, run the output of your pre-amplifier into the return of the iD44. This will bypass the pre-amplifier stage and run straight into the ADC of the iD44. You will be unable to add any gain to as a result of the bypass.
If you wish to use an external compressor with the iD44 MKII’s built-in preamp, connect your microphone to Input 1 or 2 and adjust the preamp gain while monitoring the level in the iD Mixer.
Connect the Insert Send for that channel to the input of your compressor, then connect the compressor output back to the corresponding Insert Return.
The signal path will then be:
Microphone > iD44 MKII preamp > Insert Send > compressor > Insert Return > ADC
The compressor is now connected to the pre-amplifier and will pass audio from the pre-amp to the external unit. You may now apply the necessary compression and any makeup gain you require to shape the sound to your liking.
Finally, you may wish to record a dry and wet variant of your input source. To do this, simply connect the return of the external compressor to the adjacent input channels return input. This will allow you to capture both the wet and dry signals.
If you have any further questions on how to use outboard gear with the iD44. Please contact our helpdesk where we will be happy to help.