THE PREMAX PREAMP
By Graeme Hague
12 June 2013
Radial Engineering has been pumping out 500 Series hardware lately. The new PreMax channel strip is a combination preamp and 3-band equaliser module. The PreMax begins with a low-noise Op-Amp input coupled with Radial’s Accustate gain control that simultaneously sets the input sensitivity and signal gain to deliver ultra-quiet performance at all levels. Visual monitoring is supported with LEDS for signal and overload. The preamp then feeds a traditional 3 band shelving EQ for tone shaping. A front panel switch enables the user to bypass the EQ to compare the pre-post effect. This is augmented with a high-pass filter to eliminate low-end resonance. A 180°polarity reverse works double duty to either help align stereo mic placement or to help tame acoustic hot spots when using the PreMax in a live stage setting. For safety, the 48V phantom power switch is recessed to prevent accidental turn-on. When used with a Radial Workhorse power rack, the Omniport jack is configured as an instrument input and activated using the front panel switch. When not connected, the switch acts like a microphone mute. The PreMax starts shipping June 17th, 2013.
AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTOR: Amber Technology www.ambertech.com.au
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