Rodec M-501 – Discrete Mic Preamp/EQ

OVERVIEW

Rodec’s first 500 series discrete preamp/equalizer takes your console to a new level. Featuring a customisable choice of pluggable opamps and an EQ, this module spans 50 years of sound colouring.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

70dB of gain for enhanced audio performance:

The 70dB gain ensures that your signal is amplified with clarity and power, offering a wide range of control over the input level. This high-gain capability is ideal for capturing subtle details in both quiet and loud sources, providing exceptional performance for a variety of recording and mixing situations.

Customisable with pluggable opamps for versatile sound colouration:

The module allows you to select and swap different opamps, giving you full creative control over the tonal character of your audio. This customisation offers a range of tonal possibilities, from vintage warmth to modern precision, allowing you to shape your sound to suit any style or genre.

48V Phantom power for condenser mics:

The built-in 48V Phantom power ensures compatibility with condenser microphones, which require this power to operate. Whether you’re recording vocals, acoustic instruments, or other sources, this feature ensures your setup is ready for high-quality, professional-grade mic performance.

Hi-Z, 20dB pad, and phase switches for flexible signal handling:

The Hi-Z switch is perfect for handling high-impedance instruments like electric guitars and basses, ensuring a clean and accurate signal. The 20dB pad switch provides further control for loud signals, attenuating them before they enter the preamp stage. The phase switch allows for quick phase corrections when dealing with phase issues in multi-microphone setups, ensuring a tight and coherent sound.

Bypassable EQ with adjustable narrow or wide Q on the parametric mid-section:

The module features an EQ section that can be bypassed for transparent signal processing, or adjusted to fine-tune your sound. The parametric mid-section offers control over the Q factor, allowing you to choose between a narrow or wide bandwidth, making it easier to dial in precise frequency adjustments for both subtle enhancements or more aggressive tonal changes.

LED gain indication for accurate signal monitoring:

The built-in LED gain indicator provides a visual reference for signal levels, helping you avoid clipping and maintain optimal performance. This allows for precise monitoring and ensures the signal remains within the ideal range, preventing distortion and ensuring high-quality recordings.

Equipped with 2 Lundahl transformers for superior sound quality:

The inclusion of dual Lundahl transformers contributes to superior sound reproduction by improving the clarity and depth of the audio signal. Known for their high-quality construction, these transformers help to preserve the integrity of the sound, offering a warm and rich tonal quality.

Dual discrete 6-pin socketed switchable opamps: vintage opamp for input and modern opamp for output:

The module features two 6-pin socketed opamps, one vintage opamp at the input stage and a modern opamp at the output stage. This combination offers the best of both worlds: the vintage opamp adds warmth and character to the incoming signal, while the modern opamp ensures a clean, precise output, making this preamp highly versatile for different applications.

Output attenuation control for precise volume adjustments:

The output attenuation control gives you the ability to adjust the final output level, providing greater flexibility in integrating the preamp into your recording or live setup. It allows for fine-tuned adjustments to ensure the right volume level is achieved before the signal is sent to the next stage, whether it’s a mixer, recorder, or audio interface.

FEATURES

• Customisable with pluggable opamps for versatile sound colouring
• 70dB of gain for increased audio clarity and power
• 48V Phantom power to support condenser microphones
• Hi-Z switch for high-impedance signal sources
• 20dB pad switch to attenuate signal strength
• Phase switch to correct phase issues
• Bypassable EQ section with selectable narrow or wide Q for precise tonal adjustments
• LED gain indication for accurate level monitoring
• Output attenuation control for fine-tuned output levels
• 2 x Lundahl transformers for exceptional sound quality
• Dual discrete 6-pin socketed, switchable opamps: vintage opamp on the input and contemporary opamp on the output

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Gain: 70dB
• Phantom Power: 48V
• EQ: Bypassable, with narrow or wide Q on the parametric mid-section
• Transformers: 2 x Lundahl transformers
• Opamps: 2 x discrete 6-pin socketed switchable opamps (vintage opamp on input, contemporary opamp on output)
• Output Control: Attenuation control
• Indicators: LED gain indication