Sound Performance Lab GOLDMIKE MK2 2485 - Manual (Page 4)

4 GoldMike MK2
Introduction
The GoldMike MK2 is the result of all our experience and
knowledge from its successful predecessor and represents an
improved, more flexible and, more modern version.
We have added technologies that have already proven to
provide superior tonal results in other SPL products. For
example, the instrument input is designed around a class A
impedance converter which premiered in the SPL GainStation
preamp.
A significant contribution to the success of the predecessor was
the hybrid preamplifier concept. It combines transistor and tube
preamplifier stages and specifically utilizes their technological
and sonic advantages: The efficiency and low noise of a discrete
transistor stage is enriched with musical coloration of a tube
stage.
The transistor stage is composed of single transistors in a class
A design. The circuitry is fully discrete, and each transistor is
completely optimized for its specific task. You will not find any
IC’s in this preamplifier stage because they cannot be optimized
for this specific application to the degree we aimed for. This all
new discrete class A transistor stage is a genuine innovation in
the entire preamplifier market at this price level.
The degree of tube pre-amplification is no longer the fixed +6
dB value of its predecessor. The GoldMike MK2 sports the selec-
tion of three different tube pre-amplifications: +6 dB remains
the standard complemented by +12 dB and +18 dB. This allows
creative variety with the tube saturation and limiting effects.
We have also added an extra setting to the popular Flair circuitry
to give more flexibility to the presence improvement.
Because the GoldMike MK2 is a dual channel preamplifier,
its channel separation is of fundamental importance for the
stereo image. Therefore the print-board layout is symmetri-
cally mirrored around the power supply in the center from
channel 1 to channel 2. This results in an identical signal flow to
supporting a naturally balanced stereo image. Additionally the
print-board provides extra-large ground areas maximizing the
shielding against crosstalk and interference.