Q: I need to use a mic splitter with my rig so that I can record my band playing live.
One side of the splitter will go to the house mixing console, the other side will go to my recorder.
I’m using some condenser microphones, which obviously require phantom power.
So my question is, can I use phantom power with a mic splitter?
If not, what do I do? Is there some kind of separate phantom power supply boxes I can use in this situation?
A: A very tricky question, indeed! I’ll preface my answer by warning you it ends with”it depends”, but I can give you a bit more than that.
Mis splitters generally consist of a “direct” out and one or more “isolated” outs. When we’re talking about which connection can carry phantom power, it’s generall going to be the direct out, if any at all.
The isolated outs usually pass through a transformer in the splitter, so they’re far less likely to work with phantom power.
As I mentioned, it depends. The answer to your question is read the manual to your splitter which should be readily available online, or just contact the manufacturer for clarification.
However, in most cases, just connect the phantom power source to the direct out and you’ll be fine. No matter what, it’s unlikely you’ll be needing those external phantom power supplies.
As always, we welcome input from the PSW community and would love to know your take on this situation. Feel free to let us know in the comments below.
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