How do I use the pad/gain switch?
CM-15padgainpad switch
The CM-15 pad/gain switch optimizes the mic for different sources:
Switch positions:
Normal (middle):
- Default position
- Suits most recording situations
- Standard sensitivity
- Use for vocals, speech, instruments
Pad (-10dB):
- Reduces sensitivity by 10dB
- For loud sources that cause clipping
- Use for: loud vocals, drums, amps
- Prevents distortion at the mic level
Gain (+10dB):
- Increases sensitivity by 10dB
- For quiet sources
- Use for: soft spoken, distant sources
- Reduces need for preamp gain
When to use pad:
- Recording is clipping despite low input gain
- Source is extremely loud (drums close-miked)
- You want headroom for dynamics
- LED shows red even with gain turned down
When to use gain:
- Recording is too quiet even with high input gain
- Source is very soft (whispers, distant sounds)
- You're getting excessive preamp noise
- Need more signal before other gain stages
Best practices: 1. Start in normal position 2. Record a test 3. If clipping, engage pad 4. If too quiet and noisy, engage gain 5. Fine-tune with your recorder/interface gain
Note: The switch is on the CM-15 body. Adjust before recording starts, not during (may cause noise).
Tip: It's better to use pad and add gain later than to clip at the microphone stage.