The RP-2 is a remote-controlled, fully discrete, two-channel Class A microphone preamp capable of recording mono, stereo, and M/S signals. Equipped with both microphone and line inputs and featuring the highest quality, hand-tested and matched audiophile components, it guarantees excellent results whether you choose to record mono, Blumlein, or M/S.
The transformer-balanced preamp can be connected to a remote external controller using only a standard XLR cable. This will allow us to control all the device's functions without having to leave the control room. It is worth noting that the amplification stages here work based on photo cells, which allows for full control over the signal, with the guarantee that there is complete separation between the audio path and the controller signal.
The RP-2 will work well on most sources - from piano, acoustic and electric guitars, through ambient and overhead shots when recording drums, to vocal tracks, or wood or string instruments, including entire sections. The sound obtained is characterized by this full of details, deep and with the right amount of air. Thanks to this, we will be able to extract the most subtle nuances when recording acoustic, electric or even electronic instruments.
The preamp will work perfectly with any type of microphone, especially with active ribbon microphones, including those manufactured by HUM Audio - in combination with both ARM-1L or ARM-1S it will give us great and noiseless effects and wide possibilities of recording and shaping the sound depending on the needs. It is worth noting that the tracks recorded by RS-2, practically immediately stick together with the remaining elements of our mix - this is one of the components of the best preamps available on the market.
KEY FEATURES:
- Fully discrete, two-channel Class A preamp
- Controlled from the control room using a dedicated controller and a standard XLR cable
- Transformer-symmetrized
- Transformer-based M/S decoder
- Very low noise
- The 'AIR boost' function allows you to boost the top of the band, based on a classic solution known from the legendary Pultec brand
- Additional Hi-Z and TRS line inputs
- +48V phantom power activation system that does not generate unpleasant artifacts
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
- Preamps: Two discrete, Class A microphone preamps based on the classic Jensen JE990 operational amplifier; Min. gain: +20dB, Max. gain: +60dB
- Recording modes: Stereo L/R, M/S (decoded or uncoded), Dual /Mono
- Gain Control: 4-cell photo-cell circuitry ensures complete separation between control and audio signals
- M/S decoder: based on the operation of a transformer with a passive M/S matrix, built into the preamp housing
- 'Air Boost' function: passive and smooth sounding in the back of the HF booster used in the legendary Pultec devices
- HPF 50Hz: when enabled, allows passive 50Hz cutoff by 6dB/octave
- Controller: provides access to all functions via a standard 3-pin XLR cable; all functions are controlled by high-quality relays and excellent Alps switches. The controller is powered by the same XLR cable that connects it to the preamp.
- Power supply (built into the preamp housing): classically linear, based on custom power transformers and 'Linear Technology' ultra-high-quality voltage regulators; Switchable (inside the device) between 240V / 120V.
- Fuses: 250mA (for 240V operation); 500mA (for 120V operation)
- Connectors: 2 x Gold-plated TRS Inputs (Preamp), 2 x Gold-plated Neutrik XLR Microphone Inputs (Preamp) , 2 x Gold-plated Neutrik XLR Line Outputs (Preamp), 1 x Gold-plated Neutrik XLR Control Output (Preamp), 1 x Gold-plated Neutrik XLR Control Output (Controller)
- Max. Output Level: +27 dBu
- Output impedance: 600 Ohm
- Input Impedance: XLR Mic Inputs - 2K Ohms; TRS Line/Instrument: 100K Ohms
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 50kHz (+/- 0.4dB)
- THD+N: 0.027% @ 60dB gain
- Weight: Preamp - 4.4 kg; Controller - 0.5 kg; Entire set with carrying case - 9.9 kg
- Dimensions: Preamp (not incl. rubber feet) - L 355mm (incl. sockets) x W 144.5mm x 118mm; Controller (not incl. rubber feet) - L 123.5mm x W 154mm x H 55mm (incl. potentiometers); Carrying case - L 340mm x W 490mm x 180mm
