Line level to instrument level

[rjkanejr]

OK - Anyone.  Here is my problem; looking for a DIY pedal or schematic, or hopefully a project (hint Brian!).  I have a Fender Hot Rod, pedals and a Line 6 DL4.  The DL4 likes instrument level, not line level.  The smartest place to put a delay is obviously in the effect loop.  Problem is MOST loops, including the Fender are line level, so.. the volume is too much and I get distortion in the delay when the DL4 is in the effects loop.  If I pay soft, no problem, but any overdriven or normally played notes/chords distort.  I have also read that you can kill the input buffers this way.  Many have suggested using a DI in reverse or a Ebtech Line Level converter, also a Remap, but I am thinking that there must be a way to build on of these myself and save some dough, plus it would be custom.  The Line Level converter takes a signal and converts the voltage from -10dBV to +4dBu and back. 

So, anyone know how to make something like, or have some additional suggestions?

Here is some additional info...
From Line 6 FAQ:
Q: Can I run my Line 6 Modelling pedal in a parallel or series FX loop?

A: Line 6 does not support the use of any Line 6 Four Button modeling pedal in an effect loop as the Line 6 Modeling pedals are designed for instrument level (guitar/bass output) to be inserted between the instrument and the amplifier. The signal strength of a line level signal (i.e. an effect loop) can cause the input buffers to fail.


Q: What if I have a level control on my FX Loop?

A: It is up to the player to determine how to set the effect loop level according to personal taste, but Line 6 does not recommend placing any Line 6 Four Button modeling pedal in an effect loop.  The send would need to be reduced to approximate a guitar level signal (i.e., -22db, 1.5v pp max, etc).  The problem with this is that you rely on the modeling pedal for make up gain, which if you tailored the input would result in higher noise floor.  If a loop is the only desirable way to connect a Line 6 Modeling pedal, you will need a -22db pad on the front end and a +20db buffer on the output to make up the gain.


http://line6.com/community/docs/DOC-3965
http://line6.com/supportarchive/thread/53636

http://www.ebtechaudio.com/llsdes.html
(Ebtech specs...

[oldhousescott]

The Ebtech really is the best solution. If you want to roll your own, you can get a pair of isolation transformers from Edcor and drop them in a box with 1/4" jacks. In the end, you might save a few bucks or maybe not, especially if you catch a Line Level Shifter on eBay for a good price.

Here's the Edcor unit:

http://www.edcorusa.com/products/89-ttpc600-10k.aspx

You can certainly do an active design, but then you have to power it, and you don't get the benefit of the galvanic separation that the Ebtech or Edcor solutions provide.

[cjkbug]

I can personally attest to the ebtech line level shifter. I used some to set up a g-system rig and it solved all kinds of impedance and level mismatch problems. made everything nice and quiet.

[rjkanejr]

Thanks for the info.  Looks like I'm just gonna have to buy an Ebtech Line Level Shifter.