True to the Music
®
Radial Engineering Ltd.
PowerPre 500 Module
Set the -15dB pad to the out position as this will likely not be required. The PowerPre has
plenty of dynamic range and is very quiet. Unlike most preamps that run ‘full on’ using a
variable input attenuator to control the level
(and deliver a fi xed noise level)
, the PowerPre is
equipped with our unique AccuState™ drive circuit that sets the input gain and the attenuation
so that noise is automatically kept at a minimum. This makes it super easy to set the signal
chain for lowest noise. Start talking in the microphone as you increase the level. It is a good
idea to always test at a low level during setup. If you notice the VU meter is going into the
red, simply back off the output level control.
Adding Character To The Signal
In the world of preamps, there are many colors. One can make ‘ultra-clean’ sounding preamps
using miniaturized electronic chips, but these tend to sound sterile and listless. On the other
hand, you can produce a preamp that is loaded with personality. This is the direction we
chose to go with the PowerPre. As soon as you plug it in, you will fi nd that it is very warm
sounding. This is attributed to the full size discrete electronics that are employed throughout
and the Hammond output transformer.
Taking this one step further, the PowerPre is equipped with a three position switch called
VOX. This control is basically a subtle equalizer that has been carefully crafted to work with
all types of microphones. The linear setting removes VOX EQ from the circuit so that you hear
the pure sound of the preamp going through the Hammond transformer. This ‘clinical’ setting
is ideally suited for recording classical instruments or recording electric guitar and bass for
later Reamping™. Start by setting the VOX control switch to
LINEAR
(middle position) so
that you hear the natural sound of the instrument or voice.
The other two VOX settings are named
BREATH
and
PUNCH
. The Breath setting is designed
to add zest to the recording by introducing a greater degree of harmonic content in the upper
end. You will fi nd that this will fl atter most voices by introducing a sense of air. It is also terrifi c
on acoustic instruments. For instance, it can add upper clarity and shimmer to a 12 string
acoustic guitar. The Punch setting is designed to beef up the bottom end. This works really
well on electric guitars to fatten tracks. You can also use it to warm up a female vocal track
or ‘enlarge’ the sound of a snare. Try, listen, experiment.
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