Whirlwind IMP Pad - 10 DB

I got two of these to reduce the normal line output level of my DAC feeding apparently oversensitive active speaker inputs. The idea is to replace about 10dB of digital attenuation with these analog attenuators. These attenuators accomplish this objective. In close listening, there doesn't seem to be noticeable effect on the sound (my top priority). The actual attenuation achieved, which depends somewhat on the connected equipment, is reasonably close to 10dB. Also, these attenuators are well-made in plated metal like any Shure or Switchcraft item from the olden days would be. I had originally planned to plug these directly into my equipment. However, after trying it out I will avoid that configuration. The reason is that these extend out from the equipment 4.5 inches, which added to the 2.5 inches typical for an XLR connector, gets you 7 inches of moment arm subject to accidental striking or pressure. An accident like that could cause some pretty expensive damage to the connected equipment. It means that these attenuators are best employed in-line between two lengths of cable.

I record narrations with an SM58, Fethead, XVive Phantom power supply, the IMP, and a DR-10X. As long as the IMP was between the XVive and DR-10X, it gave -10dB reduction as it should. Several sites claim it passes phantom power, so I changed the order to SM58, Fethead, IMP, XVive, DR-10X. Thereafter, it absolutely throttles the signal, such that I had to turn the gain in the DR-10X up to HI to even get any level at all. Turns out, it's possible to attenuate the Fethead signal by simply turning the XVive down from 48v phantom to 12v. I'm quite disappointed in the IMP, especially since the return window closed Feb. 28th. Thankfully, it costs no more than a pizza and a pint.

I use this to reduce the input on my yamaha s2000 integrated amp's xlr jacks. Works great , does not effect fidelity just reduces input by -10db

works as described

Very handy. The direct line out from my amp is ridiculously hot, in fact the new version has a built in switchable -10 pad. This is the inexpensive, simple alternative.

Inline pad attenuated as described. No audible signal loss. Decreased line level to where I could successfully add another gain stage where I needed it in the signal flow.