The Manley all-tube microphone preamplifiers are available in 2-channel
or single channel versions, primarily intended for use with modern
capacitor (condenser) microphones. Now, 40 to 60 dBs of gain, enough for
most ribbon mics, are selectable in precise 5dB steps by varying the
amount of overall negative feedback on the GAIN switch. This is a very
interesting feature indeed, allowing you to change the slew rate
(speed), placement, and tonal balance of the sound from mellow and
"tubey-er" through to faster, punchier and more aggressive. See "Notes on Variable Feedback" for more info.
Tube complements are common to both models: 1 x 12AX7EH hand-selected
for lowest noise, and 1 x 6414 for each high-current output stage. Each
unit is painstakingly hand wired using silver solder and
audiophile-grade componentry. Double shielded custom-built power
transformers and custom-built high capacity reservoir capacitors
demonstrate our modern power supply design approach.
The front panel 1/4" DIRECT INPUT jack makes these preamplifiers serve
double duty as a pure tube line stage for instruments such as bass, drum
machines, and keyboards when you need to get your tunes through some
tubes before hitting a sterile digital recorder. Total gain in this mode
becomes 20dB less than indicated on the GAIN switch. Both transformer
coupled balanced and direct (via humongous metalized film MultiCaps)
capacitor coupled unbalanced outputs are provided giving you the choice
of audiophile-purist or big iron sounds. Perennial shoot-out winners,
our single-ended preamp designs have become favorites among top
engineers and home recordists alike looking for "that rich Manley sound
with the tight bass and the top end that goes on forever" which begs to
go direct to tape. It's a BIG sounding mic pre!
Features
Manley input & output transformers with nickel laminations in mu-metal cases
Flat frequency response from 10Hz-60KHz
Mic input Phase Reverse switch
2400 ohm mic input Z; 48V phantom power built-in
Hi-Z (100Kohm) 1/4" DIRECT INPUT
Noiseless conductive plastic INPUT attenuators
<0.05% THD @ 1Khz S/N ratio: 80dB
EIN: -125dB
Adjustable Feedback / Gain switch selects 5dB steps between 40 to 60 dB of gain
Operating mains voltage: Units are purpose built for original destination country's mains voltage: 100V, 120V, or 220-240VAC
as indicated on the serial number badge. Power transformer must be replaced in order to change mains operating voltage.
120VAC units may NOT be rewired to put the primaries of the power
transformer in series for 220-240V operation or a large radiated field
of hum will develop. If changing locations/voltages, the power
transformer must be replaced with the dedicated one for the voltage at
which it will operate.
