When preparing to record in Pro Tools, what must you adjust to ensure a strong, clean input signal?

Adjusting the volume fader on the track is important when preparing to record in Pro Tools to ensure a strong and clean input signal. The volume fader controls the level of the audio signal that is being captured. If the fader is set too low, the recorded audio may be too quiet, leading to noise issues and a weak signal. Conversely, if the fader is too high, it may cause distortion and clipping, which negatively affects the quality of the recording.

In addition to setting the fader appropriately, it's also crucial to monitor the input levels on the channel strip. This ensures the audio signal stays within the optimal range, allowing for clear and present captures while avoiding peaks that could result in clipping. This practice is fundamental to achieving a high-quality recording before any additional processing or mixing occurs.

Other settings such as EQ, pan, and MIDI configurations are not directly related to the strength and clarity of the input signal during recording. EQ settings adjust the tonal quality of the sound after it has been recorded, while pan settings determine the stereo position of the track in the mix. MIDI settings pertain to digital instruments and control information rather than audio signals, making them irrelevant for this particular stage of recording.