SPL Frontliner Modular Recording Channel - Manual (Page 6)

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Frontliner
Our preceding recording channels Track One and Channel One have already been
successful units by combining fast and easy operation with high processing quality. These
channel strips particularly benefit from previous developments for single processors: the
DynaMaxx compressor/limiter delivered the essentials for the respective channel strip
stage, the unique SPL De-Esser is also available as a single, dual-channel unit – and the
preamplifier modules were also derived from existing products.
The development of new units in the last years inevitably evoked the wish to conceive a
new channel strip which would benefit from our latest achievements.
Now the Frontliner comprises the same discrete, hybrid semiconductor/tube preampli-
fier design like the GoldMike MK2. The compressor module is based upon the Kultube
providing a full set of classic controls. We also integrated the Kultube's highlight, a signal-
dependent automation of attack and release parameters which can still be influenced
manually – with this option, manual and automatic control can be merged to always find
the best settings.
The EQ section provides two semi-parametric filters for low and mid band as well as a bell
filter delivering a silky and smooth top end. This filter set offers a perfect frequency first
aid kit and is rounded off with a Tube Saturation control.
In contrast to semiconductors, a tube does not clip from a certain level, but approaches its
limits by increasingly producing harmonic distortions. The sound effects from saturating
a tube can often be used to improve the audio signal. The sound results resemble tape
saturation effects and increase the density and perceived energy in a very pleasant way.
The Frontliner concept
The Frontliner comprises a hybrid semiconductor/tube preamplifier with microphone,
line and instrument input, a de-esser, a compressor/limiter and an EQ section with tube
saturation stage. In addition to its primary function as a recording channel with all tools
onboard to process a signal prior to storing, its modules can also serve for high-end
analog processing during mixing.
The enumeration of the Frontliner’s modules also makes clear that the task of a channel
strip is relatively complex. There is not one specialized device for one job, but a unit that
combines a lot of technology for the preamplification and processing of audio signals. That
is why especially the Frontliner benefits very much from SPL’s innovations for targeted,
efficient work. The SPL De-Esser, for example, performs a highly complex processing, but
can simply be adjusted with one single knob.
The straight and clear front panel design also supports fast and safe operation.
Analog plug-ins
In the last years we have been busy with modular concepts. One result is the RackPack
series: a RackPack frame hosts up to eight 3U high modules for free placement and (inter-)
connection.
But we have also transferred the modular idea to the Frontliner. Each Frontliner module
disposes of its own inputs and outputs. Sophisticated switching options allow to inte-
grate Frontliner’s modules into a studio environment as if they were stand-alone devices.
You can also group modules in any combination and you can determine inserts at each
module’s input.
If you imagine the Frontliner modules as analog plug-ins, the additional value suddenly
becomes apparent: this channel strip also is a versatile analog processing station. With
one single unit, especially DAW based studios benefit from a first-class recording front-
end and have access to high end analog processors for the main signal processing tasks.
Introduction