SPL have announced the launch of two new mic preamps, the P8 and Pre One. The former packs in eight channels and can be paired with an optional A-D converter, and the latter adds a compact two-channel unit to the company’s Series One range.
P8
The P8’s eight preamps all boast a discrete design that utilises individual transistors with no ICs, and promise to deliver an open and transparent sound character. There’s up to 62dB of gain available, and each channel is equipped with an identical set of controls that include phantom power, a -20dB pad, a polarity reversal and a 6dB/octave, 80Hz high-pass filter. Rear-panel Neutrik XLR sockets handle all of the unit’s inputs, with line-level outputs provided by a DB25 connector.
The unit can be equipped with an optional eight-channel A-D converter card (ADC8), which features a pair of ADAT outputs on Toslink connectors alongside coaxial Word Clock I/O. The converter relies on an AKM AK5538 chip, and supports sample rates up to 192kHz. The models without the A-D card fitted instead offer a second DB25 port that provides a duplicate set of line-level outputs for feeding a secondary system.
Pre One
The Pre One also employs a discrete preamp design, and houses two channels in the same compact enclosure as its Series One siblings. A large front-panel gain control is joined by switches for engaging phantom power, a high-pass filter (6dB/octave at 80Hz) and a polarity reversal. There’s also a Flair/Contour toggle switch that offers a pair of preset EQ curves for some tonal options at the tracking stage.
Over on the rear panel you’ll find a pair of mic inputs on Neutrik XLRs, and the second channel also features a Hi-Z instrument input. Line-level outputs are provided by a pair of quarter-inch TRS sockets, and finally, two DIP switches offer -20dB pads for each channel.
Pricing & Availability
The P8 and Pre One are available now, with pricing as follows:
- P8: €1799
- P8 with ADC8: €2099
- Pre One: €599
