AMPLIFYING AND RECORDING
The question of a recommended amplification system has no easy answer. Obviously,
such variables as the size of venue and the type of music being played should affect
your choice but remember, the SDS 8 has been provided with a stereo output in
addition to the mono “mix” output and there is no doubt that stereo is better. There is
also no doubt that drums and by their very definition, “percussion” sounds are very
percussive, therefore your chosen amplification system will have to be capable of
reproducing very dynamic sounds, spanning a broad frequency range.
Which output should I use
The SDS 8 has seven outputs. Five of these are individual outputs for each channel of
the synthesizer console and are labelled bass out, snare out, etc. The volume controls
at the base of each channel do not affect the level of these outputs which is pre-set.
The stereo output is a two channel, mixed output of all five drum channels. The
relative level of each channel and the position of each drum within the stereo image is
set using the “volume” and “pan” controls. Two volume controls marked left and
right are provided to set the overall levels of the stereo output. Finally, the “mix”
output is a mono, mixed output of all five drums with their relative levels set in the
same way as for the stereo output. The overall level of this output is set by the control
labelled “mix”.
If the SDS 8 is being played live and you wish to utilise the facilities of an external
mixing desk, the individual outputs should be used to connect the synthesizer console
with five independent channels of the mixing desk. If vacant channels are in short
supply, the stereo output may be utilised to connect the SDS 8 to two channels of an
external mixing desk. Please note that the stereo output is a single, stereo jack socket
and you may require a special lead. Ask your Simmons dealer for advice. When
using either of these options the “mix” output can be utilised to send a signal to a
monitor amplifier and speaker. This facility is invaluable when playing live with
other musicians.
When recording with multi-track equipment, the individual outputs should be utilised
to direct inject into the mixing desk, allowing perfect separation of drum tracks. If
you are recording at home with a stereo tape deck, mix and pan the drums with the
on-board mixing facilities of the SDS 8 and use the stereo output. At all times, ensure
that the output of the SDS 8 is not overloading the input of the ancillary equipment. If
this occurs, decrease the level of the output with the relevant volume control.
