More and more, live sound engineers are finding it useful to have preamps and compressors previously viewed as being for the studio only available for their live sound mixes. These front end devices tend to make the lead vocals really stand out in the mix. Bruce Springsteen's tour, for instance, used Drawmer channels almost exclusively. TransAudio offers some of the most useful tools in this application.




GML2020

The Model 2020 is a single-channel input processor and accepts either microphone or line-level signals with phase reversal and phantom power switches. The equalization, dynamics, and sidechain sections allow for flexible routing to accommodate any recording situation. Like all GML equipment, it is constructed of all discrete-transistor, balanced/symmetrical class-A components and delivers wide-bandwidth, low-noise, extended dynamic range, and an extremely high slew-rate.

"We designed the Model 2020 based on the 8300 preamplifier, 8200 parametric equalizer, and 8900 dynamics processor," says George, GML CEO and original inventor of the parametric equalizer. "The designs are the result of decades of research, prototyping, manufacturing, and subsequent alterations in our enduring drive towards engineering completely transparent audio processing. We conceived of the Model 2020 in response to the growing trend in 'front-end' processing, where a premium is placed on signal processing before the signal hits tape or, more often, hard disk. Because such uses often call for only a channel or two at a time, there's a need for processing power that's long on features (such as preamplification, equalization, and dynamics processing) and short on channels. It's a balance between use, features, and price point, and the Model 2020 fits the niche perfectly."

Insiders say: If you spend a lot of time and money finding the best microphone, and don't want to add "coloration", this is the channel strip for you. We have found the 2020 to be an incredibly versatile channel strip that adds little or no coloration, noise, or distortion to the sound of your input source.

The 2020 requires one 9015 external power supply.
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New For 2004!
GML's renowned transparency, reliability, musicality, and precision at a more affordable price!

George Massenburg Labs is introducing the all-new GML 2032 mic preamplifier and parametric equalizer. Heir to thirty years of analog engineering expertise, the Model 2032 boasts discrete class A design in a single rack space unit and provides an elegant front end solution for recordists. And, for the first time in GML history, the 2032 features an ultra-low-noise internal AC power supply.

Insiders say: Short on price and long on sound. This is the best bargain you will see all year.
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GML 2032 Review in MIX


8302 Two Channel Microphone Preamplifier -
This all-discrete-transistor, transformerless unit is highly regarded for its extraordinary accuracy and transparency, high headroom, and low noise. Affordably priced, the model 8302 is hand built and calibrated in limited production quantities using selected components. Includes switchable phantom powering, fits into a 1U, 19" space, and requires the external GML 8355 Power Supply.
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8304 Four Channel Microphone Preamplifier -
The four channel version of the 8302, model 8304, is also hand built and calibrated in limited production quantities using selected components. Like the 8302, it also includes switchable phantom powering, fits into a 1U, 19" space, and requires the external GML 8355 Power Supply.

Insiders say: Simple in operation and completely transparent. Your mics never sounded so good.
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Geoff Daking
In Daking, we have found a manufacturer following in the tradition of the great console manufacturers like Neve and API. Geoff Daking, long a premier name in the recording industry, has used his extensive experience in recording and studio setup to create a line of studio products whose sound quality and workmanship are second to none. Factor in their reasonable cost and Daking's excellent product support, and you have a value unmatched in the pro audio industry today.

DAKING Mic-Pre/4 band Equalizer

All Daking product is made with all discrete transistor circuitry, transformer balanced inputs and outputs with class "A" amplifiers, and Steel construction for strength and noise immunity. The Mic-Pre/EQ includes five stepped frequencies per band*, continuously variable boost and cut (+ 16db) all relay switching with gold bi-furcated contacts, switchable +48v phantom power, and a 20db pad on the mic input.

* Stepped frequencies:

Upper Mids 1.5-3-5-7-9K

Lower Mids 125-hZ-250hZ-500hZ-1K-2K

Low Shelving 30-50-80-100-150hZ

High & Low Pass Filters 25hZ & 15KhZ

Insiders say: Do you like Trident, API or Neve? Daking fits the bill.
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The DAKING FET Compressor II, an updated version of the renowned Daking FET Compressor, features a new internal switch to facilitate active use of the gain makeup pot for console applications and also to fully bypass in line level rig application.
It also includes:

All discrete transistor circuitry

Transformer balanced inputs (-10dbv or +4dbu) and output

Class "A" amplifiers

All parameters switch selectable & repeatable

Seven release time constants (.5, 1, 1.5, Neve 33609 Auto, A&D Compex Auto, Fairchild 670 #5, Fairchild 670 #6)

A three function VU meter (Input/Output/Gain Reduction)

Stainless steel construction.

Insiders say: Fast and sweet, this compressor will soon become one of your favorites!
One scoring engineer we know thinks the is the most flexible and useful compressor he owns.
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1969 Preamp/Tube Compressor Mercenary Edition

The 1969 Mercenary Edition is a new product that derives from a collaboration between two of the audio industry's most established names, Drawmer (UK) and Mercenary Audio (USA). When Ivor Drawmer rose to the challenge of outspoken US producer/engineer 'Fletcher' of Mercenary Audio to build a special version of the famed Drawmer 1960 (used by Eric Clapton, Madonna, Sheryl Crow, Stevie Wonder, Bryan Adams and thousands of artists around the world) - both sides joined forces and the 1969 Mercenary Edition was born!

Main Features:
* 2 mic/line pre-amps with variable gain, 48V phantom power, filters and phase reverse.
* Instrument tube pre-amp with variable gain, EQ, phase reverse and brightness boost.
* 2 soft-knee tube compressors with variable threshold, attack, release and output gain.
* True stereo link operation with BIG position for retaining bass frequencies.
* Side chain access and side chain listen facility.
* VU metering of gain reduction and output levels.
* Individual +4dB/-10dB inserts / Balanced +4dB XLR input/output connectors.

* Based on Drawmer's original 1960 Mic Pre-Amp/Tube Compressor (itself inspired by the classic Fairchild 670), the 1969 offers a host of new features, and more impressively - a completely new sound! Retaining the concept of twin mic pre-amps, the 1969 uses 'Burr-Brown' op amps for a silkier sound - and a Phase Reverse switch available in Instrument, Mic and Line modes increases versatility. The 1969 employs true Stereo Link operation with channel one's Threshold, Attack and Release controls becoming master to both channels. Stereo Link also offers a BIG position which retains bass frequencies by rolling off the detection signal at 100Hz minimizing undesirable pumping during compression. Output Gain make-up can be independently controlled on each channel.

The 1969 Mercenary Edition incorporates new tube circuits designed to add warmth to mic/line signals, and the instrument (DI) pre-amp has its own tube stage enabling classic overdrive effects when inserting guitar, bass and other instruments - true to the original Drawmer 1960 design.

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GML 8900:

Our ears are not made of circuits and our perception of sound is not based on the behavior of transistors. Twenty-two years of progressive research into loudness perception by George Massenburg resulted in a limiter/compressor unlike any other. This is the most transparent dynamics control money can buy.

The 8900 Dynamic Range Controller was intrinsically developed to react to loudness (rather than volts) like our ears do. The 8900's psycho-acoustic approach uses multiple true-RMS detectors, remarkably accurate log converters, and fast peak detectors to respond intelligently to real signal energy, not just level. This unusual design employs unique controls, like Crest Factor, Timing, and Release Hysteresis to access the parameters that you really want to adjust- that make sense to your ears. Familiar features such as Stereo Link, Soft/Hard Knee, Ratio, Output Level, as well as the comprehensive 40- segment tricolor Gain/Loss metering have been carefully optimized for flexible, creative control over a wide dynamic range with a lack of audible artifacts. Very useful is the Side Chain Input that permits external frequency shaping to be introduced into the detection circuitry. The entire audio path is all-discrete, including the VCA, for unsurpassed transparency and low-level resolution.

The 8900 packs all of this in a formidable 2U, two-channel unit which requires the external GML 9015 Power Supply.

Insiders say: This is the ultimate dynamics controller. If you need it for high-end mastering, the new 2030 is the mastering version of the 8900 with upgraded power supplies, and detented pots for repeatable control.

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The P-SOLO is a single channel version of the acclaimed TRUE Systems’ family of microphone / instrument preamps. While sporting the same design and sound of the TRUE Systems Precision 8 and P2 Analog preamps, this compact, single channel, desk-top version features:
 
• Natural, musical, highly-detailed soundfield
• Complete compatibility and superior results with any mics – condenser, dynamic, and ribbon
• A totally balanced, dual servo, high dynamic range, transformerless design
• Internal linear AC power supply for excellent transient response
• High impedance instrument input
• High-pass filter and 48v phantom power
• Dual analog outputs
• Four-level metering
• Over-size volume control with selectable 10db input level attenuation
• Compact, portable, solid desk-top case
 
Unlike many other mic preamps where the lower-cost versions come at a big cost to the sound, the P-SOLO is, in every regard, a TRUE Systems microphone preamp, offering the “high-end mic pre” quality at an affordable, entry-level price.
 
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Introducing the P-SOLO Ribbon
A proud new member of the TRUE Systems product line of precision mic preamps. THe p-solo ribbon is specifically designed to get the absolute best results from both new-technology and vintage ribbon microphones (and for that matter, dynamic mics also).
The p-solo ribbon features the same design as all true systems preamps, but with no phantom power (potentially dangerous to most ribbon mics), no capacitors in the signal path, even higher input impedance and higher gain capability.
Whether you're recording Bach or rock, every time a ribbon mic is used, choose the same preamp preferred by many professional musicians, engineers and producers for critical studio, location recording and live sound situations.

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The P2analog is designed to provide detailed, transparent sonic performance necessary for the most critical direct tracking and live sound applications. It includes a unique combination of functions that make it useful as a complete input system for standalone or PC-based recording systems. And, the P2analog has special features that provide the serious musician or recordist with useful tools to get the best sound more quickly and easily.
In addition to our acclaimed microphone inputs, the P2analog features two instrument direct inputs (DIs) offering sonic performance previously thought to be available only with dedicated, high-end DIs. You'll get incredible articulation and control for electric bass, detail and smoothness for stringed instruments and punchy, clean sound with keyboards.
Even with today's emphasis on powerful digital audio platforms and software plug-ins to perform signal-processing tasks, the issue of microphone placement remains a critical variable in determining the quality of your final sonic product. The P2analog incorporates powerful features that assist you in achieving optimum microphone placement for nearly any stereo recording situation.

FEATURES:

• Ultimate sonic performance for critical recording and sound reinforcement
• Two active high-impedance DIs - comparable to high-end dedicated DIs
• M-S (Mid-Side) Decoder for creative spatial image control
• Stereo Phase Correlation Display speeds effective mic positioning
• Selectable high-pass filters
• Relay-switched signal routing
• Dual gain range
• Solid construction - with striking, machined front panel
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The Precision 8 is designed to provide the detailed, transparent sonic performance necessary for the highest quality direct tracking and live sound applications. It includes a unique combination of features which make it useful as a complete input system for MDM's, HDR's, and DAW's. Two sonically accurate discrete FET instrument inputs (DI's) are available for recording or live sound applications in which realistic, unaffected sound quality is desired. The 5-segment peak-hold level metering with selectable peak reference allows rapid optimization of program levels between the PRECISION 8 and devices to which it is interfaced.
PRECISION 8 is ideal for location recording due to its 8-channel single rack unit format, smooth continuous gain controls, useful level metering, and easy interconnect. The integral MS decoder provides creative spatial image control that is particularly useful in attaining an exciting stereo image with minimum effort and microphone repositioning.
With the emphasis shifting to digital audio platforms and modular configurations, software "plug-ins" are replacing many outboard signal processors. Other than the microphone itself, the microphone preamplifier is the most significant analog device remaining in the signal chain. PRECISION 8, with its sonically pure design, simple-to-use features, and unparalleled cost/performance value, is the ultimate solution for state-of-the-art digital recording studios and project studios.
The P8 also comes in an international version, the P8i, which includes a specially designed external power supply.

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