A little problem with the "Audio-MIDI Config" for my Edirol "FA-101"

Question

Hi to all of you!
I bought an Edirol "FA-101" a couple weeks ago, and when I try to plug and record with many mics, from the backside inputs, it seems that these inputs don't give me the "punch" I need. I mean by that that I have to go trough my old Tascam "M-30" in way to use the preamps from the mixer, so I can have a little more input "volume", and then, plug the direct output from the mixer and then plug it in the back inputs of the "FA-101".
I was wondering why do I need to do that? Cause when I take a look at the "Audio-MIDI Config" (I do work in french, so, apologize for any translations errors), the "AMC" window don't show any inputs as "selectable", and, or, "ajustable". The link bellow shows the exact copy of what I see when I open the "AMC" set-up window:
http://www.geocities.com/macjamsimages/configaudiomidi.jpg
Now, I have to explain that I had some problems in the past, when installing QT 7. I tried to remove QT 7, but I think I removed some files, maybe importants ones. So, now, what I want to know, is if that setup is normal, and impossible to configure, or is it MacOS Panther 10.3.9 that need a reinstall?
And I have to say that GB and Logic Express both recognize the "FA-101" as audio inputs. But need a little help from the mixer.
Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

The inputs on the back of the Edirol unit are LINE LEVEL inputs, meaning they are require a high level of voltage to give a level. A microphone plugged directly into this input will not give you the required voltage, if you were to plug either the outputs of a mixing desk or something like a CD player into it you would get a level.
First of all you must use a microphone preamplifier, like the ones on the front panel. There are thousands of companies producing these and it shouldn't be hard to find them. You could also use any mixing desk which has multiple outputs, so as to split the channels out to the relevant channels in logic.
Hope this helps.