I'm guessing the reason why your XLR cables work but the original 1/4" to 1/8" adapter did not, has to do with whether the three electrical contacts are treated as Stereo or as Balanced on each end of the connection. In the OP-1, it is using the TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) as stereo audio. In a typical audio interface, the 1/4" jack supports TRS, but only as mono balanced audio, not stereo. This means that if you send stereo to the interface, it will often cancel poorly (left and right will fight) and be very quiet due to this. Google for "balanced audio" to get a better explanation than I can give. tl;dr you could avoid the strange combo of XLR cables if you get a 1/8" TRS to 1/4" TS stereo splitter. You then use two channels of the audio interface to receive left and right separately. This is what I do. The ground loop isolator should still help with that particular noise at the end of the setup, but this is only an issue if the OP-1 is charging. I will say, the amazon reviews for that particular one are poor, and it appears to have some filtering effect that may be undesirable.
THIS was the info I was looking for. That helps explain a lot. I just bought two of those particular ground loop isolators and haven't noticed any issues yet, but I'll keep an eye out. I'll also look into the splitter. Super helpful.
If you don’t need stereo, you can also turn either the L or R channel down in the OP-1’s master area, leaving only one channel up. This is what I do when I’m not worried about stereo. Edit to clarify: this will allow you to use a 1/8” to either 1/4” or 1/8”-plus-1/4”-adapter directly into your interface without any other adapters or cables.
The low signal is caused by using a *stereo* cable into a *balanced mono* input. This causes the left and right channels to cancel each other out. If you use a stereo 3.5mm to dual mono 1/4” cable, you'll get a clean signal, no extra gadgets required. Plus then you can record in stereo (or just plug one side in) I know it's bad for the algorithm, but you should really re-upload this video with the correct information, or at least pin one of the comments that point this out. (Not trying to be a jerk, you're making great videos and music! 💙)
No offense taken! That's actually a good idea to pin one of these answers. The comments on this video are a great resource for anyone having cable issues. I've learned a lot! I appreciate you!
@@philphilphil yep! (If it's not a stereo pedal, just use one of the 1/4" ends)... You may want to be cautious with volume though, as OP-1 signal will be much hotter than an electric guitar.
hi there! for some reason my OP-1 records my voice when I connect the 3,5 stereo to the dual mono cable to my audio interface (as if it records the op1 trhough the internal mic) - Do you know how can I record it normally? Thanks!
I use a 1/8 y split to dual 1/4 inch out stereo and don’t have a problem. If your charging or using usb OP-1 is always noisy there is a way to shut off charging that makes it better. What are your levels at internally? Mixer, eq and master out as well as tape level can help give you volume. The physical volume knob always seems noisiest if I don’t back it of a smidge from maximum too. The XLR connections may be shielded better I doubt they are grounded though because the don’t terminate in an XLR jack but could be wrong.
I’m gonna have to try that splitter out. I have the usb charging off on the op-1 but I’ve been syncing it to Logic lately with the usb cable. Yeah I usually have my volume knob at around half - never max. I keep my drive up pretty high most of the time so plugging into something like my H5 I have no issues with something like a simple aux cable. Just getting that 1/4” connection seems to be a challenge.
The splitter solution worked for me. Definitely worth a try if you’re still having issues. This is the one that I use: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07QR874ZF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_OU5RFbA30YXC1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have the charging while plugged in turned off, but sometimes I like to sync the clock up to Logic via USB. Otherwise I usually do unplug it if I'm recording. Thanks!
@@BradTennant op-1 has the option to turn off charging while plugged in via USB. This is necessary just to get rid of the noise. You also asked why your cable works, the answer is simple - a balanced connection, the useful signal is doubled, interference is reduced (noise due to charging does not count because this is the ground loop noise).
@@windadept8615 Welcome! Haha there's a big community over on Instagram of OP-1ers. Look for the hashtag #op1andchill - lots of cool stuff getting made on this guy.
A very common cable is 1/8" TRS split to dual RCA left/right plugs. This is often called an AUX cable and used to connect an iPod for example to a stereo. Add a pair RCA female to 1/4" male adapters (also very common) and you'll be ready to go. I had this shit figured out in 1968 when I was 10 playing with a tape recorder. Did not need a damn UA-cam video to explain it.
Something this expensive should not have this issue. I do like it as a loaner from an insurance attorney...but that is all for now. Drum sequencer very fun. Low hum tried everything.
I agree with you 100% that something this expensive shouldn’t have this issue. I don’t regret buying it at $899 (the retail price when I bought it in 2017) but I’m not sure I would pick it up at today’s pricing.
Just get a stereo mini jack to two jacks left and right into two inputs on your interface no noise! The op1 as far as I know outputs on a stereo jack so you can’t combine to mono without the channels interfering with each other and creating noise.
lol, @1:40 your op-1 is quiet because you had the volume all the way down on it 😂😂 If you look at the screen @1:47 there is a tiny red dot on the right of the op-1's screen that is in line with the bottom of the tape wheels. That is your tape volume and it is at its lowest. You need to crank the volume up on than boy.
OOOP-ZZ...!!* Hye there :) I see so many people struggeling with the connections between two of your loved machines : OP-Z (With the OpLab) + VOLCA (Bass, Sample, etc). Since there are these options with : CV1, CV2, CV3, Gate, Midi IN, Midi Out, Trig, PO, It really becomes kinda not so obvious how to connect what cable from what end etc. I'd personnaly be thrilled being able to control my volcas from the OP-Z so to have a simple efficient live set up. Also big issue trying tons of ways to record seperated patterns (tracks) from a project into Logic or Abbleton from the Op-Z, looks like I'm not the only one. I've also tried underbridge software but gives me empty tracks. Think could be tons of cool topics ;) You do things in great way, fun and helpful / detailed Bests
@@highhawk9632 something like this stagedepot.co.uk/essentials/signal-data-cable/y-cable-audio-adapter/stagg-high-quality-y-cable-2-x-mono-jack-stereo?sku=ST-SYC2/MPS2PE&gclid=CjwKCAjwzMeFBhBwEiwAzwS8zJSWRyiclNC-84Wg-9oizAJVK9nYOXHTf4X8XKqPwqPZ3laemV1XfhoCKZ0QAvD_BwE
yo you delete me bro ? why dis ? I like you bro. I jus tryna help bro. Yo it like dat bro ? Imma put a picture on youtube bro. You not right bro. Damn bro, i still like u though. I dun feel right now bro. I don't know wha to doing bro. It hurt too much bro. Bro
True. I’ve been using different methods since releasing this video. But I think that the only stereo sound from the og op-1 is on the FX so a mono signal isn’t all that weird.
@@BradTennant the same when I try to drag a midi effect to the midi channel of op1, it doesn't work it stays mute, but if I use the midi channel just writing the notes in the op1 if it works ... it's a bit weird. but many equal teacher ...
Right?? I think there’s something about the way they wired in the USB power, but either way, you’d think with that price tag it’d be flawless in every way.
when the cable hit the table... my life flashed before my eyes. thats all i ever hear. cable ends smacking things way to hard for no reason, and me letting out a curse. except all day long. glad to know im not the only one. i also love this track. its been fun going back through all your older videos.
Haha I can still hear this cable smack in particular! Thanks for going back through the old stuff. Been writing some new stuff lately - just trying to get back into the schedule of making videos
Hmm. I don't really do anything special in particular. I usually have the drive on my OP-1 cranked pretty high. I've noticed that bass can sometimes be quieter if that's off or if I'm not using any sort of compression. That would be my first guess at beefing up the lower octaves.
Hey Brad it’s Sam, hope all is well. Hey, so I noticed in one of your tutorials before that you mentioned needing a certain cord for when you build a song while using the tape (cutting, pasting, shift, etc.). If i recall, you mentioned that if you don’t have “X” cord, then ill be limited in what i can do if im not hooked up to something. Would you by chance know what cord im referring to..?
Some other youtuber said that by turning off the charging mode (it charges simultaneously when it is plugged).. Try clicking OPT (right next to disk mode) and twist the blue knob to show a red “x” which signifies that it isn’t charging.. and it SHOULD take the static out :) hopefully that does the trick!
Definitely ground loops are common with usb and other audio. Equipment. Also XLR are far superior to regular 1/8 inch cables. They are shielded and can carry signals much farther.
just had a revelation with the op1. i have made a huge discovery on the lack of gain. i am using only a 1/8 inch with a 1/4 converter on one end so i do have some white noise but this has helped tremendously. i went into mixer mode, then hit t4 i then turned the left all the way up and the right side all the way down. i think they were phasing with each other since its only coming out as a mono track into your daw regardless. when you have the left all the way up and right all the way down the volume is much louder without having to turn up the drive.
I'm guessing the reason why your XLR cables work but the original 1/4" to 1/8" adapter did not, has to do with whether the three electrical contacts are treated as Stereo or as Balanced on each end of the connection. In the OP-1, it is using the TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) as stereo audio. In a typical audio interface, the 1/4" jack supports TRS, but only as mono balanced audio, not stereo. This means that if you send stereo to the interface, it will often cancel poorly (left and right will fight) and be very quiet due to this. Google for "balanced audio" to get a better explanation than I can give.
tl;dr you could avoid the strange combo of XLR cables if you get a 1/8" TRS to 1/4" TS stereo splitter. You then use two channels of the audio interface to receive left and right separately. This is what I do.
The ground loop isolator should still help with that particular noise at the end of the setup, but this is only an issue if the OP-1 is charging. I will say, the amazon reviews for that particular one are poor, and it appears to have some filtering effect that may be undesirable.
THIS was the info I was looking for. That helps explain a lot. I just bought two of those particular ground loop isolators and haven't noticed any issues yet, but I'll keep an eye out. I'll also look into the splitter. Super helpful.
If you don’t need stereo, you can also turn either the L or R channel down in the OP-1’s master area, leaving only one channel up. This is what I do when I’m not worried about stereo.
Edit to clarify: this will allow you to use a 1/8” to either 1/4” or 1/8”-plus-1/4”-adapter directly into your interface without any other adapters or cables.
@@brandondean8399 I've never even considered trying that haha. I usually just leave that screen alone and never think about it.
Adam is my hero IRL
Unless you are using the master reverb, there is no need to record in stereo since all other effects and synths are mono.
This is exactly what I wanted to do with my OP-1 when I got it and I had the same issues. Thanks for the tip! I'm definitely gonna give this a try
Awesome! I figured I couldn’t be the only person trying to figure this out. Good luck!
The low signal is caused by using a *stereo* cable into a *balanced mono* input. This causes the left and right channels to cancel each other out. If you use a stereo 3.5mm to dual mono 1/4” cable, you'll get a clean signal, no extra gadgets required. Plus then you can record in stereo (or just plug one side in)
I know it's bad for the algorithm, but you should really re-upload this video with the correct information, or at least pin one of the comments that point this out.
(Not trying to be a jerk, you're making great videos and music! 💙)
No offense taken! That's actually a good idea to pin one of these answers. The comments on this video are a great resource for anyone having cable issues. I've learned a lot! I appreciate you!
Can I use that same cable to run the OP1 into a delay or reverb pedal?
@@philphilphil yep! (If it's not a stereo pedal, just use one of the 1/4" ends)... You may want to be cautious with volume though, as OP-1 signal will be much hotter than an electric guitar.
@@philphilphil Yeah I use it to run the OP-1 into my SP404 for FX sometimes and it works great!
hi there! for some reason my OP-1 records my voice when I connect the 3,5 stereo to the dual mono cable to my audio interface (as if it records the op1 trhough the internal mic) - Do you know how can I record it normally? Thanks!
Yo that intro was awesome! I thought it was hilarious and it was cool music! Not the eighth inch thing but the song thing.
Haha I appreciate that dude! Making the intro video and the music that goes with it was a ton of fun and it still makes me laugh every time!
I use a 1/8 y split to dual 1/4 inch out stereo and don’t have a problem. If your charging or using usb OP-1 is always noisy there is a way to shut off charging that makes it better. What are your levels at internally? Mixer, eq and master out as well as tape level can help give you volume. The physical volume knob always seems noisiest if I don’t back it of a smidge from maximum too. The XLR connections may be shielded better I doubt they are grounded though because the don’t terminate in an XLR jack but could be wrong.
I’m gonna have to try that splitter out. I have the usb charging off on the op-1 but I’ve been syncing it to Logic lately with the usb cable.
Yeah I usually have my volume knob at around half - never max. I keep my drive up pretty high most of the time so plugging into something like my H5 I have no issues with something like a simple aux cable. Just getting that 1/4” connection seems to be a challenge.
The splitter solution worked for me. Definitely worth a try if you’re still having issues. This is the one that I use: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07QR874ZF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_OU5RFbA30YXC1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just use the Hosa brand version the one you linked says not currently available. That one looks nicer than mine though.
@@johnruschulte2593 I'm in the UK so possibly not available where you are
You can record through the usb itself now... Huge update from teenage engineering!!!!!!!
I saw that. Definitely a welcome update!
HI mate do you know of any step by step guides of how to set up the op-1 with logic using the usb cable? I can't seem to wrap my head around it.
@@troelsthomasen6185 Not positive off the top of my head, sorry. Im a logic guy too so I understand how frustrating their midi stuff can be.
the op1 charging cable may be causing the static
try unplugging
I have the charging while plugged in turned off, but sometimes I like to sync the clock up to Logic via USB. Otherwise I usually do unplug it if I'm recording. Thanks!
@@BradTennant op-1 has the option to turn off charging while plugged in via USB. This is necessary just to get rid of the noise. You also asked why your cable works, the answer is simple - a balanced connection, the useful signal is doubled, interference is reduced (noise due to charging does not count because this is the ground loop noise).
Pretty sure I have that turned off and I still get the noise. Thanks for the explanation!
fire. I was curious about this thing.
It's a fun little box for sure!
@@BradTennant its on my list of things to buy now haha
@@windadept8615 Welcome! Haha there's a big community over on Instagram of OP-1ers. Look for the hashtag #op1andchill - lots of cool stuff getting made on this guy.
@@BradTennant dude hell yeah Im on it rn lol
What happens if you add a cloud lifter in between?
Haha I should have tried that! I had one laying around I never ended up using but got rid of it a few months ago
@@BradTennant I'll have to give it a go then :)
@@sagenolan Let me know how it goes!
Gotta get a clean signal to make it sound like it came from a potato!
Time to do this video again with the new firmware 243 with USB audio options. :)
A very common cable is 1/8" TRS split to dual RCA left/right plugs. This is often called an AUX cable and used to connect an iPod for example to a stereo. Add a pair RCA female to 1/4" male adapters (also very common) and you'll be ready to go.
I had this shit figured out in 1968 when I was 10 playing with a tape recorder. Did not need a damn UA-cam video to explain it.
Something this expensive should not have this issue. I do like it as a loaner from an insurance attorney...but that is all for now. Drum sequencer very fun. Low hum tried everything.
I agree with you 100% that something this expensive shouldn’t have this issue. I don’t regret buying it at $899 (the retail price when I bought it in 2017) but I’m not sure I would pick it up at today’s pricing.
Just get a stereo mini jack to two jacks left and right into two inputs on your interface no noise! The op1 as far as I know outputs on a stereo jack so you can’t combine to mono without the channels interfering with each other and creating noise.
This is pretty much how I’m set up now. Way more convenient than that frankencable haha
lol, @1:40 your op-1 is quiet because you had the volume all the way down on it 😂😂 If you look at the screen @1:47 there is a tiny red dot on the right of the op-1's screen that is in line with the bottom of the tape wheels. That is your tape volume and it is at its lowest. You need to crank the volume up on than boy.
OOOP-ZZ...!!*
Hye there :)
I see so many people struggeling with the connections between two of your loved machines :
OP-Z (With the OpLab) + VOLCA (Bass, Sample, etc).
Since there are these options with :
CV1, CV2, CV3, Gate, Midi IN, Midi Out, Trig, PO,
It really becomes kinda not so obvious how to connect what cable from what end etc.
I'd personnaly be thrilled being able to control my volcas from the OP-Z so to have a simple efficient live set up.
Also big issue trying tons of ways to record seperated patterns (tracks) from a project into Logic or Abbleton from the Op-Z, looks like I'm not the only one.
I've also tried underbridge software but gives me empty tracks.
Think could be tons of cool topics ;)
You do things in great way, fun and helpful / detailed
Bests
i've got a stereo RCA splitter that makes two 1/4 inch inputs, never had any noise issues, no ground needed, intro made me piss myself
Haha dry yourself off! Thanks for the tip man! I'll have to look into that cable.
hey, can you post the link for the cable, please? tnx
@@highhawk9632 something like this stagedepot.co.uk/essentials/signal-data-cable/y-cable-audio-adapter/stagg-high-quality-y-cable-2-x-mono-jack-stereo?sku=ST-SYC2/MPS2PE&gclid=CjwKCAjwzMeFBhBwEiwAzwS8zJSWRyiclNC-84Wg-9oizAJVK9nYOXHTf4X8XKqPwqPZ3laemV1XfhoCKZ0QAvD_BwE
@@duncanjones7310 tnx
yo you delete me bro ? why dis ? I like you bro. I jus tryna help bro. Yo it like dat bro ? Imma put a picture on youtube bro. You not right bro. Damn bro, i still like u though. I dun feel right now bro. I don't know wha to doing bro. It hurt too much bro. Bro
I have literally no idea what you're talking about. Hopefully you feel better soon
this makes your signal mono though...
True. I’ve been using different methods since releasing this video. But I think that the only stereo sound from the og op-1 is on the FX so a mono signal isn’t all that weird.
@@BradTennant and on the master which is where u record from ;)
If I wanted to run a line level stereo out to an audio interface I would use a stereo to mono splitter cable, they are cheap and easy to find online 💫
hi, can I play midi notes on ableton and have them sound on op1, and use ableton's midi effects to affect the sounds on op1?
That should work. Just connect the OP-1 via USB and make sure Ableton is sending midi to the OP-1’s midi channel
@@BradTennant thanks master
@@BradTennant the same when I try to drag a midi effect to the midi channel of op1, it doesn't work it stays mute, but if I use the midi channel just writing the notes in the op1 if it works ... it's a bit weird. but many equal teacher ...
there is no static when you unplug the usb...
True! But then I can’t sync it with other gear
@@BradTennant There's an option in the op 1 where you can turn off charging. That will fix the problem
@@CesarZumarraga That's the idea at least. I have it set to not charge via USB but I still get static/noise.
Why is there so much noise in the first place? Tried so many cables... Just ordered your stuff now, thanks!
Right?? I think there’s something about the way they wired in the USB power, but either way, you’d think with that price tag it’d be flawless in every way.
@@BradTennant awwwwwww it works your way- thanks!!
Thanks man, just found your video about it and the comments have help a lot too. Keep it up the amazing content. :)
Glad to have helped!
when the cable hit the table... my life flashed before my eyes. thats all i ever hear. cable ends smacking things way to hard for no reason, and me letting out a curse. except all day long. glad to know im not the only one. i also love this track. its been fun going back through all your older videos.
Haha I can still hear this cable smack in particular! Thanks for going back through the old stuff. Been writing some new stuff lately - just trying to get back into the schedule of making videos
1/8 inch to 1/4 Y cable works perfectly with no ground noise… you also get two channels of audio
I’ve been using a 3.5mm to rca lately
Can you do a video on how to get good bass synths without sampling? I'm having a hard time getting a deep bass in low octaves.
Hmm. I don't really do anything special in particular. I usually have the drive on my OP-1 cranked pretty high. I've noticed that bass can sometimes be quieter if that's off or if I'm not using any sort of compression. That would be my first guess at beefing up the lower octaves.
Hey Brad it’s Sam, hope all is well. Hey, so I noticed in one of your tutorials before that you mentioned needing a certain cord for when you build a song while using the tape (cutting, pasting, shift, etc.). If i recall, you mentioned that if you don’t have “X” cord, then ill be limited in what i can do if im not hooked up to something. Would you by chance know what cord im referring to..?
Sorry man. That doesn’t ring any bells. What are you trying to accomplish?
Some other youtuber said that by turning off the charging mode (it charges simultaneously when it is plugged).. Try clicking OPT (right next to disk mode) and twist the blue knob to show a red “x” which signifies that it isn’t charging.. and it SHOULD take the static out :) hopefully that does the trick!
@@angeliquefuentes1319 It helps but there's still some noise that remains. Thanks for the suggestion!
I noticed the same thing when I was jamming in my uncles garage. He has the same cables (:
I'm finally not alone!
@@BradTennant (:
ozone 9 and logic mastering is good enough
That’s been my motto for a while now
Definitely ground loops are common with usb and other audio. Equipment. Also XLR are far superior to regular 1/8 inch cables. They are shielded and can carry signals much farther.
The comments on this video have greatly widened my knowledge of cables. Thanks for sharing!
@@BradTennant lol, translation:
"a million of you maniacs jumped down my throat already" hahaha.
Thank you for the reply.
@@XtianApi hahaha it's true, but it was actually pretty helpful!
@@BradTennant :)
Hey I think you have to turn off the charging mode to avoid those noises:)
That helps with a little bit of the noise but I’ve always needed a ground loop isolator to completely get rid of it.
@@BradTennant that is very interesting 😅 But im glad you found a solution! Thanks for the informative video!
@@ozgeleylagun Glad you found some helpful info in it! thanks for checking it out!
Brilliant.
Thanks!
just had a revelation with the op1. i have made a huge discovery on the lack of gain. i am using only a 1/8 inch with a 1/4 converter on one end so i do have some white noise but this has helped tremendously. i went into mixer mode, then hit t4 i then turned the left all the way up and the right side all the way down. i think they were phasing with each other since its only coming out as a mono track into your daw regardless. when you have the left all the way up and right all the way down the volume is much louder without having to turn up the drive.
Interesting trick! I wouldn't have thought about trying that out.
Thank you so much for this!
Thanks for watching! I figured I couldn’t be the only one that’s had cable issues with the OP-1.
@@BradTennant yes! This was driving me insane. brad you’re saving lives out here 🤘🏼
@@beaurekileejensen hahaha I do what I can!