I am glad to hear it, as I have never used the direct input. As far a volume control is concerned, as I mentioned, I have a volume attenuator that works well, and fits onto the mic before the cable.

http://www.blowsmeaway.com/xlr.html
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pa4X 76 ,SX900, Audya 76,Yamaha S970 , vArranger, Hammond SK1, Ketron SD40, Centerpoint Space Station, Bose compact