SPL Frontliner Modular Recording Channel - Manual (Page 7)

7
Frontliner
Special technical features
• Three separate, individually optimized inputs for microphones, line signals and instruments.
• Discrete semiconductor/tube hybrid preamplifier to combine the advantages – high
dynamic range and low noise operation of semiconductors with the musical qualities of
tube sounds (appealing top end, beautiful spacial impression). Discrete construction is
based upon single transistors instead of integrated circuits (ICs) from industrial production
and ensures a higher level of optimization.
• 250 volts tube circuits in the preamplifier and for tube saturation stages.
• High-grade operational amplifiers from Burr-Brown at critical positions.
• The SPL De-Esser applies the method of phase cancellation for reducing sibilants. This
innovative approach works much more neutral than traditional compression methods – a
unique method for unobtrusive results and extremely fast operation.
• The compressor is operated by SPL’s double VCA drive circuitry. A differential stage elimi-
nates side effects and the half load per VCA dramatically reduces THD.
• The operational amplifiers for the compressor circuitry meet military specifications.
Therefore the regulating voltages are extremely precise – a precondition for high signal
processing quality.
• Selected condensers for the EQ filters with pleasant sound characteristics. Especially with
vocals, amplified frequencies are not sounding too bright, and on the other hand reduc-
tions can tame harsh sounds without sounding dull.
• Central star ground wiring scheme minimizes influences that could affect the ground paths.
The audio ground is separated from the ground of the remaining equipment. This leads, in
the truest sense of the word ”clean”, to considerably improved tonal quality.
• The power supply is built around two toroidal transformers, one for the audio voltages and
one for the other supply voltages (tube heating, LEDs, micro controller etc.) Mutual inter-
ferences are excluded and lavishly over-dimensioned capacities ensure absolutely stable
supplies for all audio circuitries.
Options
• Lundahl input transformer for the microphone input. The input transformers add ca. 14 dB
gain (depending on the microphone). This must be added to the scaled values. The addi-
tional passive gain relieves the preamplifier electronics at any gain level. Microphone input
transformers are highly recommended for ribbon microphones, as they are demanding a lot
of amplification.
• OUT 1 from the MAIN OUTPUTS can optionally be equipped with an output transformer from
Lundahl.
• The Frontliner can optionally be equipped with a digital output AD converter card. The
Frontliner is a mono channel strip. An additional socket at the rear panel (AD Input 2) allows
to feed the dual-channel converter with feed a second signal source.
• Refer to page 27 for further information on the optional equipment.
Introduction