Sound Performance Lab 2383 User Manual
User’s Guide
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Gain
Station
Discrete High-Gain Preamplifier
Ultra fast wideband
Input Amplifiers
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LIMITER
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Fet Peak
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Hi Z Mic
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HI PASS
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Off
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LIMITER
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Fet Peak
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Hi Z Mic
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HI PASS
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Off
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LIMITER
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Off
Fet Peak
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Hi Z Mic
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Clip
HI PASS
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Off
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PHASE
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IMPED. Ω
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1.2k
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PHANTOM
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LIMITER
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Fet Peak
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SOURCE
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Hi Z Mic
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HI PASS
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GainStation 8
Eight channel microphone and instrument preamplifier
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Hi Z Mic
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Clip
HI PASS
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Off
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PHASE
Nor. Rev.
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IMPED. Ω
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1.2k
dB
200
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25.5
PHANTOM
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LIMITER
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Off
Fet Peak
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5.5
SOURCE
Made in Germany
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Hi Z Mic
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HI PASS
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50
Hz
10k
Off48V
50
Off
41
13
Hz
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Class A Class A
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60-Volt Amplifiers
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POWER
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Model
2388
Model 2383
User’s Guide GainStation 8
Version 1.0 – 6/2003
Designer: Ruben Tilgner
This user's guide contains a description of the product. It in
no way represents a guarantee of particular characteristics
or results of use. The information in this document has been
carefully compiled and verified and, unless otherwise stated
or agreed upon, correctly describes the product at the time of
packaging with this document.
Sound Performance Lab (SPL) continuously strives to improve
its products and reserves the right to modify the product
described in this manual at any time without prior notice. This
document is the property of SPL and may not be copied or reproduced in any manner, in par t or fully, without prior authorization
by SPL.
Model 2383
SPL electronics GmbH
Sohlweg 55
41372 Niederkruechten
Germany
Tel. +49 ( 0)2163 983 40
Fax +49 (0)2163 983 420
Email: info@soundperformancelab.com
www.soundperformancelab.com
© 2003 SPL electronics GmbH. All rights reser ved. Names of other companies
and their products are trademarks of their respective owners.
2
GainStation 8
Introduction .................................................................. 4
Before you begin .......................................................... 7
Rear panel/connections ................................................ 8
Wiring ....................................................................... 8
General advices ......................................................... 9
Connectors and switches ........................................... 10
Control elements .......................................................... 11
Clean Gain, Tube Gain, Output Level .......................... 11
Source, Hi Pass, Phase .............................................. 12
Imped. Ω, Phantom .................................................... 13
Limiter ....................................................................... 14
Power LED, LED Level Display ...................................... 15
Operation ..................................................................... 16
Setting levels on the GainStation 8 ............................. 16
Limiter ....................................................................... 18
Application examples ................................................... 19
Vocals/speech ......................................................... 20
Acoustic instruments/orchestra ................................ 20
Acoustic guitar with pickup ....................................... 20
Guitar amps ............................................................. 20
Electric Bass ............................................................ 21
Keyboards/samplers/drum machines ........................ 21
Tube distortions with GainStation 8 ........................... 21
Drums/Snare-Drum .................................................. 22
Kick-Drum ................................................................ 22
Toms ........................................................................ 22
Overhead ................................................................. 22
Contents
Technology ................................................................... 23
External power supply ................................................... 26
Technical Specifications ................................................ 27
Dimensions/weight ....................................................... 28
Options/Information on Lundahl input transformers ........ 28
Warranty ...................................................................... 29
GainStation 8
3
Introduction
Input makes all the difference.
Modern audio production relies increasingly on digital systems
for recording and mixing processes (DAW‘s, digital consoles
etc.). The advantages of digital audio are manifold and include
affordable storage, comfortable editing, recall capabilities and
automation. On the downside, digital systems still do not
offer the same audio qualities and sound characteristics of
high-end analog equipment. Especially digital equalizers and
other aspects of the mixing domain cannot compete with the
open, transparent sound of the best analog gear. So today
more than ever, your input signal has to sound as good as
possible—the quality of your original tracks will largely define
the end result. Lifeless or dynamically lacking signals are of ten
over-processed with EQ, compression and other effects in an
attempt to compensate—often an extremely tedious process
in the digital domain that doesn‘t always produce the desired
results.
Attacking this problem on the preamplification front, with the
goal of noticeably improving a signal and sending it along its
path with a healthy foundation, requires a great deal of thought
and engineering effort. To this end, the GainStation 8 employs
technolog ies that not only satisfy test equipment, but also—and
most impor tantly—the user. Components and circuits were carefully chosen and designed on the basis of extensive measurements and listening tests. In shor t, developing the GainStation 8
was a major undertaking that required immense amounts of
time and experience.
4
GainStation 8
Main technical features of the GainStation 8
• Custom- designed and buil t, fully discr ete, class A op -amps (no
off-the-shelf stuff here). The GainStation‘s op-amps feature
60-Volt operating voltage—twice as high as most common
op-amps—for an incredible dynamic range.
• An extremely high amplifier slew rate of 200 V/microsecond,
ensuring clean transmission of high-f requency signal portions
and rapid transients with virtually no cut-off.
• An almost entirely DC-coupled signal path, making signaldegenerating condensers unnecessary.
• An optimized layout guarantees the shortest possible signal
paths, while generously proportioned grounding surfaces
ensure low impedance and maximum shielding.
• All switching functions are handled by encapsulated relays
with gold-plated contacts.
• All resistors are within 0.1% tolerance and were selected af ter
extensive listening tests.
• A no-compromise power supply with extensive additional
shielding and seven separately wound and regulated voltages. The power supply is of primary importance to audio
quality; its importance should not be underestimated.
Introduction
• A tube stage utilizing premium MKP foil condensers and a
select 12 AX7 LPS tube for clear, dynamic audio.
GainStation 8
5
Introduction
This cutting-edge technology ensures that signals recorded
with the GainStation 8 have more presence and substance and
will easily cut through a mix even at lower levels. Extremely
low-frequency signals are tight and transparent with clear intonation. Percussive transients are interpreted more precisely,
which leads to a clearer rhythmic content and in turn a more
solid rhythmic performance and perception.
If the GainStation 8 is used as a preamp, musicians will immediately notice that they hear and feel what they are playing
much better, which leads to improved playing and a better
recording. The track will have more punch and dynamics , greatly
improved presence and almost palpable detail. In short, the
instrument sounds incredibly authentic and alive. Beta-tests
with the GainStation 8 showed that all instrumentalists enjoyed
playing more and in many cases were truly amazed at what their
trusty instrument was capable of.
Given this improvement in the input signal, one is much less
inclined to equalize and compress—in many cases you will probably find that you can do without additional processing, which
not only saves an enormous amount of time and processor
power, but also has an extremely positive effect on the final
result.
The GainStation 8 itself offers effective sound-shaping capabilities at recording, most notably via the tube stage, which can
be completely bypassed or continuously added to the preamp
circuit, allowing everything from extremely subtle “warmth“ to
a very noticeable tube saturation effect. The integrated limiter
can be used to protect an internal or external AD converter
from clipping, or for example to add punch to drum tracks,
which in turn reduces or in many cases even eliminates the
need for subsequent compression. Put simply, the more tracks
are recorded with the GainStation 8, the more solid and transparent—and easier to mix—the entire recording will be.
6
GainStation 8
Before you begin
It makes good sense to think about where you place your
GainStation 8 before connecting it. It should be positioned so
that you can easily reach it, but there are other considerations.
Try not to place it near heat sources or in direct sunlight,
and avoid exposure to excessive vibrations, dust, heat, cold
or moisture. It should also be kept away from transformers,
motors, power amplifiers and digital processors.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When installing the GainStation 8 in a rack,
please be sure to leave about a unit (1.5 to 2 inches) of space
above it to ensure sufficient circulation. If possible, install the
unit in a rack with other analog units to avoid interference
from digital units, such as clock frequencies. We recommend
covering the empty rack space above the GainStation 8 with a
blind panel to reduce the amount of dust and debris sucked into
the unit by its fan. The fan side of the housing must always be
kept free.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Never disconnect the GainStation 8 from its
external power supply while the unit is switched on. Always tur n
it off first and wait at least one minute, so that all current can
dissipate, before disconnecting the multipin connector. Failure
to do so can cause severe damage to components.
In addition, please:
• Do not open the case. You may risk electric shock and damage
to your equipment.
• Leave repairs and maintenance to a qualified service technician. Should foreign objects fall inside the case, contact your
authorized dealer or support person.
• To avoid electric shock or fire hazards, do not expose your
unit to rain or moisture.
• In case of lightning, unplug the unit.
• Always unplug the cable by pulling on the plug only; never
pull on the cable.
• Never force a switch or knob.
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the case. Avoid cleaning
agents as they may damage the unit.
GainStation 8
7
Rear panel/connections
1
MIC
INPUT
OUT 1
(BAL. )
INSTR. IN
Wiring
(UNBAL.)
(alternatively also balanced line level signals)
Microphone
JACK Wiring (Unbalanced): Tip = High (+)/ Sleeve = GNDJACK Wiring (Balanced): Tip = High (+)/Ring = Low (–)/ Sleeve = GND
XLR Wiring: Pin 1 = GND/ Pin 2 = High (+)/ Pin 3 = Low (–)
PUSH
2
MIC
INPUT
OUT 1
(BAL. )
PUSH
OUT 2
INSTR. IN
OUT 2
(BAL. )
(UNBAL.)
(BAL. )
Instruments,
(unbalanced)
line level signals
Pin wiring TRS connectors
3
MIC
4
MIC
5
MIC
6
MIC
7
MIC
8
MIC
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
INPUT
OUT 1
(BAL. )
(UNBAL.)
INSTR. IN
PUSH
OUT 1
(BAL. )
PUSH
OUT 1
(BAL. )
PUSH
OUT 1
(BAL. )
PUSH
OUT 1
(BAL. )
PUSH
OUT 1
(BAL. )
PUSH
OUT 2
INSTR. IN
OUT 2
INSTR. IN
OUT 2
INSTR. IN
OUT 2
INSTR. IN
OUT 2
INSTR. IN
OUT 2
(BAL. )
(UNBAL.)
(BAL. )
(UNBAL.)
(BAL. )
(UNBAL.)
(BAL. )
(UNBAL.)
(BAL. )
(UNBAL.)
(BAL. )
for GainStation 8
Power Supply Unit
DC OUTPUT
Model 2383-PSU
Germany
Niederkrüchten
Sound Performance Lab
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
Converters, recorders,
MADE IN GERMANY
DO NOT OPEN
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
mixing console (balanced)
SERIAL NUMBER
2383-PSU
3830123-P
GND LIFTWARNING
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE EARTHED.
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
DISCONNECT MAINS BEFORE REMOVING COVER.
TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO
Tip=hot(+) Ring=cold(-) Sleeve=GND
Pin wiring
XLR Output
1=GND 2=hot(+) 3=cold(-)
3
1
2
Pin wiring
XLR-Mic Input
1=GND 2=hot (+) 3=cold (-)
1.6 A slow blow
3.2 A slow blow
110 V – 120 V/ 60 Hz:
DC INPUT
POWER SUPPLY
1230321
Gain Station 8
Made in Germany
AC MAINS INPUT
220 V – 240 V/ 50 Hz:
VOLTAGE/FUSE FUSE RATING
110 V – 120 V/ 60 Hz
220 V – 240 V/ 50 Hz
8
3
1
2
PUSH
GainStation 8
General advices
Again, while the GainStation 8‘s housing is EMV-proof and
protects against HF-interference, placement of the unit is
very important since it amplifies microphone signals as well
as other unwanted signals. Thus, it is extremely important
that the external power supply not be positioned near the
GainStation 8.
IMPORTANT: Adjust the voltage setting on the back of the
external power supply so that it corresponds with the power
conditions. Before connecting the GainStation 8 or any other
equipment turn off all power.
The following graph shows the correct wiring for connecting
unbalanced signals to the balanced XLR connectors:
Rear panel/connections
Output
VOLTAGE/FUSE FUSE RATING
220 V – 240 V/ 50 Hz
110 V – 120 V/ 60 Hz
220 V – 240 V/ 50 Hz:
1.6 A slow blow
110 V – 120 V/ 60 Hz:
3.2 A slow blow
balanced
1
2
3
unbalanced
1
2
3
1=GND
2=hot (+)
3=cold (-)
The Line Input connector is designed for unbalanced signals
only.
The TRS output connector (see „Analog Outputs“, page 10) can
be operated both with balanced and unbalanced wiring. Simply
use a mono 1/4" plug for unbalanced operation.
GainStation 8
9
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