LJ> mentions three possible settings for the input/output jacks:  +4, -10,
 LJ> and "consumer line level."  I have checked the docs for all of the
Professional equipment such as a high-end mixer or multitrack
recorder is likely to use +4.  This means that the electrical signal
(which represents sound waves) is 4 decibels more intense than a
standard reference level.  (A decibel is a handy unit of comparison
between two levels.)  The advantage of sending a signal at +4 is
that it takes a tremendous amount of noise on the line to interfere
with this strong signal.  Mid-level equipment such as a cassette
multitrack or mini-mixer may more likely use the -10 level, which is
less resistance to noise because the audio signal is so much
fainter.  And consumer line level is designed for hooking up a
consumer grade cassette deck, CD player, etc.
 LJ> How, pray tell, can I determine the best setting for this card, short
Start by picking the +4 setting and turning your source equipment
(whatever you've plugged in to the card) to a low level.  Gradually
turn up the level of the source equipment.  If the card records and
plays back a good quality signal, you're set.  You shouldn't need
to crank up the input level controls on the card too much.  This
will help keep your noise level down.  If you aren't pleased with
the results, go to the -10 setting and try again.  Finally, try the
consumer level setting.  A large plume of smoke indicates a wrong
setting, but fortunately it's very unlikely!  The most common side
effect to picking the wrong setting will simply be a very obvious,
grating distortion on everything, or an extremely faint, noisy,
distant sounding signal.  If you don't get those side effects, you
should be fine.
 LJ> is soon to be replaced by a Mackie 1402-VLZ, which might help, but
Mackie's documentation is very thorough, and you could probably call
them for help as well on figuring which connections and settings
will best go along with their equipment.
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