Problem adding my outboard gear into my mix, Please help!!!

[exfakto]

Hi Guys. Im trying to figure out how to add my external gear into my mix. First thing is first, here is the equipment I use.

-PC running Cubase SX3
-Apogee AD-16X w/firewire option
-Benchmark DAC-1
-Manley Massive Passive
-EL Distressors
-Drawmer 1969

I know there is an option un Cubase where you can run you external gear as plug ins, but I need more outputs for that. But I cant spend cash on a DA-16X to have more output, just got married and my 1st child is up in 3 months so the budget to spend on more equipment is on hold for awhile.

I tried running the outputs of the DAC-1 into the Comp then the MP and back into the Apogee but I hear both signals at the same time (original and processed), if I turn the process signal up to high it starts making a weird high pitch digital like sound, must be some kind of loop going on.

The only way I can use my outboard gear is recording it wet on the way in, but I want to process it a bit more in the mix stage. Any comments or suggestions will be greatly appreciated, and please remember I have to make it work with what I have, i cant buy any other equipment. Thanks in advanced!!!

JP

[Slaytex]

If I understand you correctly do this to run external FX in cubase sx3. Press F4, then click on the "External fx" tab and create an input and output to use (DAC-1), then save that. Go to the channel that you want the effect on and click on a blank insert just like opening a plug-in. Scroll down to "External fx". It should show you your outputs (DAC-1) that you just created. Select that and your ready to rock 'n roll. Also you will want to ping your system so it can compensate for the delay.
Hope this helps.

[Slaytex]

I forgot to mention that you will have a hard time monitoring this. You may need to print the tracks with the inserts, then use your DAC-1 like normal. I don't have my DAW in front of me to go through other scenarios but maybe someone else can chime in.

[exfakto]

Originally Posted by Slaytex

I forgot to mention that you will have a hard time monitoring this. You may need to print the tracks with the inserts, then use your DAC-1 like normal. I don't have my DAW in front of me to go through other scenarios but maybe someone else can chime in.

Thanks for the reply. The monitoring thing is the problem. Since my DAC-1 is only 2 channels and those channels are being used for my monitors. Its driving me crazy, I have these amazing outboard equipment but can only use it while recording, not mixing. Anyone else have any other ideas.

[CorkyTart]

Route everything using external fx as mentioned above. I believe the latest version of Cubase has a Control Room Setting. Research this and you should be able to monitor everything just fine. Here is an example:

Tracks 1 and 2 Stereo out tracks
Tracks 3 thru 14 used for external fx
Tracks 15 and 16 set up to be your control room monitors

[exfakto]

Originally Posted by CorkyTart

Route everything using external fx as mentioned above. I believe the latest version of Cubase has a Control Room Setting. Research this and you should be able to monitor everything just fine. Here is an example:

Tracks 1 and 2 Stereo out tracks
Tracks 3 thru 14 used for external fx
Tracks 15 and 16 set up to be your control room monitors

Thanks corky, Ill try that tonight and let you guys know. Thanks!!!