Buzz Audio MA-2.2BTX Microphone Pre-Amplifier
Description
A vintage mic preamp design that proved 20 years ago - "clean and fast does not need to sound clinical" - now with updated user interface and calibrated gain.
Designed to provide transparent amplification to reveal the true source, they do not come any better than this. If you wish to record your sounds with the utmost warmth and clarity possible, you have found the tool for the job. And it's not just us blowing our trumpet here, it's what hundreds of users have told us over the years since we began building the very first MA-2 back in 1993, (re-vamped as the MA2.2 in 1999). The MA2.2B is a very high end product designed without low price as a primary goal, so it is an investment for sure. However, the high standard of workmanship and meticulously engineered construction means it will last a life time - something our users who purchased 20 years ago now experience.
As standard the MA-2.2B has an unbalanced output, avoiding the extra stages required for the balanced function so as to keep the signal path as simple as possible. If you treat the output of the MA2.2B as balanced, you should have no problem with interconnection to other equipment. The unit can however be supplied or retrofitted with high spec Lundahl LL1517 output transformers. When the transformers are fitted, the direct unbalanced output is still available on the rear panel via a 1/4" jack socket. When fitted, the transformer add a bit more warmth to the sound. (We can also offer the Lundahl amorphous core LL1684 transformer to special order).
Specifications:
• Minimum Gain; +14dB (-6dB with pad in)
• Maximum Gain; +66dB
• Maximum Output Level; +24dBu unbalanced.
• Frequency Response; 2Hz to 250kHz @ 20dB gain (-3dB).
20Hz to 250kHz @ 65dB gain (-3dB).
• Harmonic Distortion; less than 0.008% 100Hz to 10kHz.
• Slew Rate; typically 140 V/uS, @ +20dBu output level.
• Equivalent Input Noise; -133.5dB A wtg, 150ohm source Z.
• Common Mode Noise Rejection; 100Hz-80dB, 1kHz -80dB, 10kHz-70dB (internally trimmed).
• Channel to Channel Crosstalk; below noise.
• Input Impedance; 3k ohms/1k2 ohms switchable.
• Indicators; 19 segment peak level output meter. Power On LED.
• Connectors; Input-XLR3F, Out on 1/4" jack and XLR3M.
• Size; 1 Unit rack mount, (482Wx44Hx300D).
• Weight; 7kg.
• Power requirements; 230V/115V selectable.
• Specifications are typical of a production unit and are subject to change without notice. 0dBu reference = 0.775 volts RMS
Controls and Functions:
• GAIN dB - a 24 position Elma audio switch to set the gain of the preamp between +14 to +66dB.
• MUTE - when engaged, the audio output of the MA2.2B is switched off. On power up, the mute is always engaged to avoid thumps on the output.
•-20dB - when engaged, a 20dB resistive pad is inserted right at the input to cater for high input level signals.
• Ø REV - when engaged, the polarity or phase of the input signal is reversed 180 degrees.
• LO-Z - changes the mic input loading from 3k ohms to 1k ohms, which can change the overall tone of the connected microphone.
• 48V - when engaged 48V phantom power is supplied to the connected microphone. On power up it is always set to off to avoid disasters!
• POWER - A handy power on/off switch and associated power led, conveniently located on the front panel!
Design Features:
• Functions are now controlled with illuminated push button switches with "clickless" operation, no more thumps on the output.
• The gain pot has been replaced with a calibrated 24 position Elma switch for accurate stereo matching between channels.
• We have added a useful 19 segment peak output level meter.
• But, the original audio and power supply design of the MA-2.2 has been retained.