Loop Issue/Question

Just for some info up front...

I am running my KPA thru the Main Output via XLR to FOH at a set level of -18.0 dB. I am also running the speaker out to a 2x12 cab with the cab sim off and using the Power Amp volume, which is unlinked, to adjust my stage volume as needed.

Ok. Here is my issue and questions:

Today I was adding some effects to a few performances via a mono loop slot using my Eventide H9. I was listening to the KPA thru my DAW. I hadn't checked any effect output levels on the H9 at this point yet but everything sounded great.

Next I turned up my 2x12 to check how the performances would sound on stage the same presets that sounded great thru the Main out had moments of overloading/digital remnants thru the speaker out. So I went to the H9 and lowered the output and the overloading sounds went away. While checking the levels I realized that the overloading was even happening on performances where a loop slot didn't even exist. I would turn up the H9 output = distorted. Turn H9 output down = no distortion. Again, no Loop Slot in the performance slot at all but the H9 levels seem to be effecting the signal.

I understand that as long as I level everything correctly I will be fine thru both outputs but I would still like to know:

1) Why would the signal coming from the Main Output to my recordings never overload even when the H9 was peaking and the speaker out signal was overloading/distorting?

2) Why would the Speaker Out overload/distort even when a Loop slot doesn't even exist?

I'll look when I'm near the unit again.

I know I have my speaker and Main outs unlinked.

I'm not sure if the loop is after the volumes in the chain of things? That might explain the speaker out signal getting overloaded.

Quote from hjscheffler

is the Auxin level for the monitor output raised in the output menu?

all aux levels at 0

I think may have figured it out.

I noticed that even when I didn't have a loop slot in a performance the H9 was still getting signal from the direct output. Direct output was set to Git+Processing. I turned it to OFF and now only get signal to the H9 when the loop slot is in the performance and only when it is the slot is active. Now I just need to set each individual effect in the H9 to the correct output and I should be good.

I'm still not sure why that was only effecting the Monitor Output (2x12) and not the Main Output (my DAW).