So I'm all digital now with the DJM800 for recording. The thing is I realized the output is something like -20db which I originally didn't think was right because of the fact its digital. Well in reading the RECORDING GUIDE I found that it is "studio standard"? So my question is this.

When recording digitally with the DJM-800 what should I aim my levels at on my mixer? Does it really matter because it is digital? Will there be distortion if it exceeds the level meter if it doesn't show distortion with the host program since it is -20db. Also, and most importantly, with my audio experience I always thought the boost of gain isn't always a good thing and its best to record at the "hottest" signal. Is that only a noise reduction factor and the fact that there is just about no noise digitally you can boost the db after recording and not have to worry about loss of quality?

Sorry for long question. I'm an engineer and just anal about noise quality.

When talking analog, you're right - hot is better. With digital, as there's no noise, you can then boost it afterward without fear.

When it comes to level meters, you can aim for what makes you feel best, but 0db is always the best. This is because anything below 0db means that you're getting a REDUCTION in signal as compared to the input on the source (not always a bad thing) and anything above means that the mixer is AMPLIFYING things. When it comes to digital, this is hardly a concern, but you never know how "good" the amps in a mixer are, so it's best to stay in the green (just good habit anyway if you ever play out).

-r-