Guitars and Soundcards

[WaldoMcFroog]

I have a Soundblaster32 in my PC. I am using CoolEdit Pro as my multitracker. I want to record into the sound card with out going via my four track, since this puts loads of hiss in with any signal, but I'm worried I'll blow the card, especially if I use any effects units with the guitar. Anyone know if my worries are legitimate?

[lisaj]

The line voltage on an XLR or phono cable (I'm assuming your guitar gives this output), runs at a much higher voltage than the line input to the soundcard. You might be able to use the Mic input, but I'm fairly sure that's just mono, and it may need attenuating anyway. Your best bet is to find out why your four track is hissing: any dodgy cable, conenctions, soldering? If not, I remember a few years back I ended up buying a �15 cheap effects box... I had no interest in the effects (after-all, how good could they be for �15?!), but it did have phono and XLR inputs, and a stereo line output...

[WaldoMcFroog]

Thanks Lisa - I had an idea that might be the case! The four track is hissing because of advanced decrepitude! I have a Zoom 2020 effects box, which has (obviously) outputs on it - standard 6.5 mm stereo jacks. I have the leads to connect it, but will it output the correct voltages? Hmmm. I can always use the phones socket, I guess...