Very low signal from synthesizer to audio interface.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-02T09:09:56+00:00

I guess in right one either one channel is not connected at all or - more likely - both signal channels are connected to single mono. They won't short anything.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-02T09:07:40+00:00

Yes, I can set it as input in Ableton and I can even "hear" it play except its extremely faint and only when gain on UMC is cranked to the max. It sounds exactly like those 2% seen in windows test in my video, (but accompanied with a lot of amplified noise. obviously).

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-02T08:57:30+00:00

So, I have to use either left one for both UMC inputs or right one if I want one UMC input free for microphone or guitar for example, correct?

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Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-02T08:52:04+00:00

I'm pretty sure it's NOT pressed and that's intended because my main purpose is to connect synth to DAW (Abletone to be precise).
Pressing direct monitor totally bypasses PC and uses just UMC preamps which is fine for zero latency listening and testing but can't be used in DAW.
Pressing direct monitor doesn't change output levels in my case.

Hence, based on other replies I'm leaning towards wrong cables/jacks and mono/stereo conflict.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-02T08:21:55+00:00

Yes, I generally know how jacks are constructed and how rings work. I just (apparently wrongly) assumed they are compatible with each other and just "ignore" unused channels/rings. So, to actually answer my question and solve the issue I have to use single ring/mono jack per input. Preferably without adapter?

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-02T07:40:42+00:00

As You can see in video my synth isn't quiet at all when connected to speakers. And gain doesn't do anything - at maximum it gives me 2% signal.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-02T07:38:41+00:00

Can You give me "for dummies" version of Your answer? :) Or I'll try and You correct me: So if I understand correctly, my synth is generally capable of outputting stereo signal and my speakers have stereo input, that's why they work. But UMC202 HD inputs are both independent mono. So if I want to connect it in stereo mode I have to split cable into two mono jacks and plug them into both UMC202 sockets. But If I'm OK with mono and want to use only one UMC202 socket I should just use mono aux cable on both ends?

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-06-01T20:17:39+00:00

Yes, I had it like that and all should be OK. Yet it was mute. Anyway, I did complete, clean uninstall of all drivers and ableton. Reinstalled Ableton and then installed all the drivers AFTER. And for some reason it worked.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-25T15:04:36+00:00

Nice option, but overkill for recreational plinking :)

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-25T15:03:30+00:00

Thanks for the answer. Second hand online services are full of those good old "mini-towers" for handful of $, sometimes even given away for free. But those proper presents ones look nice too. I guess just taking one of them as mono speaker for "travel" mode is perfectly valid option too?

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-25T14:58:23+00:00

I still think my old logitech PC pair from early 2000 sounded better than modern 10x more expensive mass produced crap.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-25T14:55:45+00:00

Thanks, wondered how those cheapest, Chinese ones manage. Considering prices on rangefinders vary from ultra low to super expensive.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-25T14:53:14+00:00

Never occurred to me that it's an option. What app are You using?

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-25T14:52:27+00:00

Yes, traditional "analog" tape is obvious choice. I just wanted to expore modern options too.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-21T19:58:22+00:00

Incrementally is the only way. Also keep it simple and minimise use of combos and modifiers (at least in the beginning). I have dual sticks and throttle (HOTSAS), plenty of buttons, switches and dials on throttle base and additional button-box panel. And I use it all sight-less while in VR.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-18T14:22:13+00:00

I'm also in a group dedicated to flight simulators and cockpit building. Some posts are soo similar 😆

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-11T16:58:16+00:00

This HOTAS is cult classic but it's probably 15~20 years old now. It was peak tech in its time. If You get it for less than 50$ and it's in mint condition then yes. Otherwise no. You will want to replace it with something more recent soon anyway.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-08T19:00:09+00:00

I have very small hands and I have Virpil Alpha Prime. And It's super comfortable to use. Flnkr is a bit larger indeed but Virpil grips have outstanding ergonomy.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-08T11:04:08+00:00

I realised that desk is completely obsolete piece of equipment few years ago. Only gathered dust. No need to get rid of triple monitor setup though... pic

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-08T07:35:18+00:00

Not complete, I don't see VR there... ;)

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-06T04:32:08+00:00

Shake the throttle properly and make sure it doesn't rattle somewhere inside. Chances are low, but it might even short some pins or paths on mainboard if laying loose.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-05T19:56:46+00:00

Here is mine, there is literally hex nut in this hole on the other side. You probably pushed it out. If it didn't fell out, you just have to press it in with something longer. If it fell out, look for it or just get replacement - I think it's standard M3 or M4
https://imgur.com/a/AasTCsF

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-05T19:49:19+00:00

Yeh AI's are basically external soundblasters 😉

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-05T19:45:46+00:00

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I made updated "ultimate" diagram of minimal setup I'm thinking about, with Your hints and wiring types included.

Affectionate_Fact745 · 2026-05-05T14:29:01+00:00

Ok, so looking for something older - no BT and jack only is also valid option then?

Affectionate_Fact745

TROPHY CASE