Want a PC based RTA and need help

[Bigred]

I like omnimic but my mic USB is broken

[Salami]

Instead of buying the MXL MicMate Classic and the 30db 30dB XLR inline attenuator can I use something like this instead? http://www.shure.com/americas/produc...dapter#details

Will it allow me to attenuate the signal coming in when I check the speaker level outputs from a head unit or amp? Cost is slightly higher (~$20) then buying the other 2 items but it appears to be of much better quality.

[ChrisB]

I'd recommend something like this to check speaker level inputs in addition to the Shure device or MicMate: http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/DI100.aspx

I purchased a used Countryman direct box to test my amplifier outputs. While some have scrutinized the measured results of it, that device used in conjunction with my M-Audio USB Mobile Pre was better than the NOTHING I had before.

That is how I measured my Stetsom V1k5H monoblock amplifier:


It is also how I tested an old school "servo" unit:


And a 25 to Life Punch 150

[Salami]

I'd recommend something like this to check speaker level inputs in addition to the Shure device or MicMate: http://www.behringer.com/EN/Products/DI100.aspx

Chris is this needed for checking the outputs of a factory head unit? I can see it being important for checking aftermarket amplifiers especially with much higher output but my biggest immediate concern is checking my factory Honda head unit to see what kind of a mess it is. Then I want to be able to run TrueRTA or the like to check the response of the factory system and help tune after I install new equipment.

I want to keep the cash outlay to a bare minimum as long as the equipment will be of sufficient quality, as I become more familiar with the testing procedures I will be more interested in outlaying more cash down the road. Also the MicMate seems to be very popular but I am concerned that specifications may not be as good as the Shure. I also came across this article which has me leaning towards the Shure X2u if I can use the gain control to ensure the signal is not to hot going into the laptop. : http://recordinghacks.com/2009/07/04...o-micmate-x2u/