i have a channel with an amp sim and cabinet IR loader VST added.
 
before arming the channel for recording, the levels are fine.
 
once i select arm for record, the levels max out RED.
 
BUT the actual recording is fine on playback.
 
i think this is a monitoring issue.
i have the input echo ON in order to hear the VSTs.
 
BUT i also hear the direct sound from my guitar - i think.
 
 
signal chain:
 
strat ---> Boss GT-100 ---> Scarlett 18i8 (stereo) ---> usb into windows 8.1 laptop
 
using a Poulin preamp and Poulin leCab VST.
 
thoughts? thanks in advance.

I am not sure of a solution to this, but have also noted the audio spiking in select situations. The only advice really is to get into the habit of arming a limiter on the master buss to catch things before they get back to the interface (and disable it on exports in most cases). Even when mixing I will notice that spike at times (not egregious for me), but never actively tracked it down to a recipe.

i found the answer.
 
i knew it was a typical boneheaded oversight on my part.
 
i am using a Scarlett 18i8 interface.
 
in the Scarlett mix app, i simply needed to mute the channel inputs.
 
done!
 
thanks for the response.
 
i found the fix in a SUPER old cakewalk ref doc.
 
VINTAGE solution.