# Question about output levels

**URL:** <https://unity.neuraldsp.com/t/question-about-output-levels/23504>\
**Category:** Quad Cortex\
**Created:** [October 6, 2026, 3:39pm UTC](https://unity.neuraldsp.com/t/question-about-output-levels/23504 "2026-10-06T15:39:49Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![jorisd](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/9e8a1a/32.png) [@jorisd](https://unity.neuraldsp.com/u/jorisd)\
**Post date:** [October 6, 2026, 3:39pm UTC](https://unity.neuraldsp.com/t/question-about-output-levels/23504/1 "2026-10-06T15:39:49Z")

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Hi everyone,

I’m trying to get more volume from the QC’s XLR outputs. I need Outputs 1/2 because I’m also using the QC as an audio interface with my iPhone.

The meter turns red around **-7 dB**.

Does red actually mean clipping, or is it just a warning zone? Can I safely increase the Output 1/2 level further, and does the limiter prevent clipping?

What level do you guys normally aim for on the Output 1/2 meter?

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**Author:** ![Titou](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/c0e974/32.png) [@Titou](https://unity.neuraldsp.com/u/Titou)\
**Post date:** [October 8, 2026, 7:45am UTC](https://unity.neuraldsp.com/t/question-about-output-levels/23504/2 "2026-10-08T07:45:21Z")

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Hello,

I might be saying something silly, but generally, when things are in the red, it’s not good—a bit like traffic lights.😵  
Personally, I’ve noticed that pushing into the red sometimes—or even often, depending on the presets—introduces artifacts or other forms of audio distortion.

That said, you should show exactly what you’re trying to do so the community can help you.