SPL GainStation 8 Mk2 User manual

Model 1180
Manual
Eight-channel microphone and instrument preamplifier
GainStation 8 Mk2
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Gain
Station
Model
1180
Mk2
60V Rail
Class-A
+
Tube
Mic/Instr.
Preamplifier
•
Tube/
Germanium
Limiter
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2
GainStation 8 Mk2
Manual GainStation8 Model 1180
Version 1.1 – 09/2016
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. SPL electronics GmbH conti-
nuously 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 part or fully,
without prior authorization.
SPL electronics GmbH
Sohlweg 80, 41372 Niederkruechten, Germany
Tel. [phone], Fax [phone]
Email: [e-mail], Website: spl.info
The construction of the GainStation 8 Mk2,
Model 1180, is in compliance with the standards
and regulations of the European Community.
Notes on Environmental Protection
At the end of its operating life, this product must
not be disposed of with regular household waste
but must be returned to a collection point for the
recycling of electrical and electronic equipment.
The wheelie bin symbol on the product, user‘s
manual and packaging indicates that. The materials can be
re-used in accordance with their markings. Through re-use,
recycling of raw materials, or other forms of recycling of old
products, you are making an important contribution to the
protection of our environment. Your local administrative office
can advise you of the responsible waste disposal point. WEEE
Registration: 973 349 88
© 2016 SPL electronics GmbH. All rights reserved. Names of other companies
and their products are trademarks of their respective owners.
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3
GainStation 8 Mk2
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 Mk2.............................
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 Mk2...........................
21
Drums/Snare-Drum .................................................. 22
Kick-Drum ................................................................ 22
Toms ........................................................................ 22
Overhead ................................................................. 22
Technology ................................................................... 23
External power supply ................................................... 26
Technical Specifications ................................................ 27
Dimensions/weight ....................................................... 28
Options/Information on Lundahl input transformers ........ 28
Your Notes ...................................................................... 29
Contents
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4
GainStation 8 Mk2
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 often
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 Mk2
employs technologies that not only satisfy test equipment,
but also—and most importantly—the user. Components and
circuits were carefully chosen and designed on the basis of
extensive measurements and listening tests. In short, devel-
oping the GainStation 8 Mk2 was a major undertaking that
required immense amounts of time and experience.
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5
GainStation 8 Mk2
Introduction
Main technical features of the GainStation 8 Mk2
• Custom-designed and built, fully discrete, 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-frequency signal
portions and rapid transients with virtually no cut-off.
• An almost entirely DC-coupled signal path, making signal-
degenerating 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
after extensive listening tests.
• A no-compromise power supply with extensive additional
shielding and seven separately wound and regulated volt-
ages. The power supply is of primary importance to audio
quality; its importance should not be underestimated.
• A tube stage utilizing premium MKP foil condensers and a
select tube for clear, dynamic audio.
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6
GainStation 8 Mk2
This cutting-edge technology ensures that signals recorded
with the GainStation 8 Mk2 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 into-
nation. 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 Mk2 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 Mk2 showed that all instru-
mentalists 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 Mk2 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 inte-
grated 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 Mk2, the more solid
and transparent—and easier to mix—the entire recording will
be.
Introduction
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7
GainStation 8 Mk2
It makes good sense to think about where you place your
GainStation 8 Mk2 before connecting it. It should be posi-
tioned 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 trans-
formers, motors, power amplifiers and digital processors.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When installing the GainStation 8 Mk2 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 Mk2 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 Mk2
from its external power supply while the unit is switched on.
Always turn 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 compo-
nents.
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 techni-
cian. 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.
Before you begin
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8
GainStation 8 Mk2
Rear Panel/Connections Wiring
Gain Station 8
1230321
Made in Germany
XLR Wiring: Pin 1 = GND/ Pin 2 = High (+)/ Pin 3 = Low (–)
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
1
POWER SUPPLY
DC INPUT
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
2
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
3
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
4
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
5
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
6
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
7
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
OUT 2
(BAL. ) HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
8
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
JACK Wiring (Unbalanced): Tip = High (+)/ Sleeve = GNDJACK Wiring (Balanced): Tip = High (+)/Ring = Low (–)/ Sleeve = GND
PUSH
PUSH
PUSH
PUSH
PUSH
PUSH
PUSH
PUSH
AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
CAUTION
TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO
NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
DISCONNECT MAINS BEFORE REMOVING COVER.
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE EARTHED.
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
VOLTAGE/FUSE FUSE RATING
220 V – 240 V/ 50 Hz
GND LIFTWARNING
AC MAINS INPUT
Sound Performance Lab
Niederkrüchten
Germany
MADE IN GERMANY
2383-PSU
3830123-P
Power Supply Unit
for GainStation 8
Model 2383-PSU
DC OUTPUT
SERIAL NUMBER
(+), (-)
PUSH
1
2
3
2
3
1
Converters, recorders,
mixing console (balanced)
Microphone
(alternatively also balanced line level signals)
Instruments,
line level signals
(unbalanced)
Pin wiring TRS connectors
Tip=hot(+) Ring=cold(-) Sleeve=GND
XLR-Mic Input
1=GND 2=hot (+) 3=cold (-)
Pin wiring
XLR Output
1=GND 2=hot(+) 3=cold(-)
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9
GainStation 8 Mk2
Again, while the GainStation 8 Mk2‘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 Mk2.
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 Mk2 or any
other equipment turn off all power.
The following graph shows the correct wiring for connecting
unbalanced signals to the balanced XLR connectors:
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.
Rear Panel/Connections
General advices
Output
balanced unbalanced
1=GND
2=cold (+)
3=hot (-)
12
3
12
3
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
VOLTAGE/FUSE FUSE RATING
220 V – 240 V/ 50 Hz
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10
GainStation 8 Mk2
Rear panel/connections
MIC INPUT
Dynamic, condenser or tube microphones can be connected
to the Mic Input. The 48 V switch provides the phantom power
necessary for some microphones (see also „Control elements/
Phantom“ on page 13).
The MIc Input can also be used as a balanced connection for
professional audio equipment with a maximum output level
of +20 dBu. The Clean Gain already delivers 10 dB of minimum
preamplification, this leaves you with 4 dB of headroom.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Always switch the phantom power (48 V)
off before connecting anything other than phantom-powered
condenser microphones.
INSTRUMENT/LINE INPUT
The Instr. In is for electric guitars and basses or other high-
impedance, line-level signals such as keyboards, samplers,
drum machines etc. with unbalanced outputs. If a balanced
connector (TRS) is inserted, the ring of the plug is automa-
tically connected to the ground to ensure proper unbalanced
operation.
ANALOG OUTPUTS 1/2
The preamplified output signal is fed to the balanced Analog
Outputs. Since the XLR and 1/4" TRS connectors are wired in
parallel, an unbalanced connection at one connector will cause
the other connector to operate unbalanced, e.g. if a mono
1/4" plug is inserted into the 1/4" jack, the corresponding XLR
socket will also operate unbalanced.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The output connectors can deliver an output
level of up to +34 dBu. Please ensure that all other equipment
can handle these levels to prevent possible damage.
OUT 2
(BAL. )
HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
PUSH
OUT 2
(BAL. )
HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
PUSH
OUT 2
(BAL. )
HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
PUSH
OUT 2
(BAL. )
HI-Z/LINE IN
(UNBAL.)
OUT 1
(BAL. )
MIC
INPUT
PUSH
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