The Sound Professionals
Dual
Channel Microphone Preamp
(SP-PREAMP-5)
Instructions
Introduction
Congratulations
on your purchase of The Sound Professionals dual channel microphone
preamplifier SP-PREAMP-5. This preamp
can be used in situations where the signal coming from your microphones need to
be strengthened before they are plugged into your recorder or mixer. The ‘plug
in power’ feature, built into this preamplifier, can be used to power any
microphone that requires a 9 volt D.C. power source.
The
preamp is built into an Otter Box 1000 series case and is constructed of sturdy
ABS fiberglass reinforced plastic that will protect the internal components
from mechanical damage. The output cable is terminated with a standard high
quality, right angle 1/8” stereo mini plug.
To access the battery compartment, slide the batteries out of their holder and Install three new 3-volt batteries of the same type (CR2016) noting the proper polarity ( “+” up).
Preparing to use the preamp
Selecting the proper gain range
Your new
preamplifier has adjustable gain, in 3 ranges, and is controlled by a small
toggle switch. The 9vdc “plug in power” feature is present in all gain ranges.
The “0dB” gain range is used for loud recordings, when you don’t need any
additional amplification. With this range, the audio signal is not amplified.
The “29dB” gain range is used for most recording situations (moderately loud to
fairly soft). The “50dB” gain range is used for extremely quiet recording situations.
For
best results, use the lowest gain range that adequately drives the line input
of your recorder to an acceptable level. Using a gain range that is too high
will result in overloading of the preamplifier input, called “Brickwalling”. In general, you want to use the least amount
of amplification necessary to obtain a line level signal to drive your
recording device.
Using the SP-PREAMP-5 with any Sound
Professionals microphone
If you are
using the SP-PREAMP-5 with
one of our microphones, simply plug the microphone’s connector into the preamp
input jack.
If you are
using the SP-PREAMP-5 with a
microphone other than a Sound Professionals microphone, the procedure for its
use is the same as noted above. Be sure the microphone is designed to use at
least 9 volts DC and has a 1/8” stereo phone plug.
Plug
the 1/8” stereo output cable from the preamp into your recorder or mixer’s LINE
input. Turn the level control of the preamp all the way down
(counter-clockwise) and turn the preamp ‘on’ by flipping the power switch up.
Turn
on your recorder or mixer and prepare it for recording. For a recorder, set the
recording level by following this procedure:
1. Set the recording level to the
maximum setting in the ‘manual recording’ mode (some recorders are always in
manual mode). The recording level should be at maximum for the best overall
dynamic range and lowest signal to noise ratio.
2. While monitoring a source signal,
turn up the level control on the preamp (the knob that rotates) so that the
recording level meters are set per the manufacturer’s instructions (usually as
high as possible without hitting the very top of the scale “0dB”).
You may
now begin recording, following the directions provided by your recorder or
mixer’s manufacturer. After a few minutes of recording, stop the recorder and
listen to the recording you have just made. Adjust the microphone placement and
recording levels as needed. Repeat this procedure until you are satisfied with
the results. You are now ready to make that once-in-a-lifetime recording!
Remember
to turn off the preamp when not in use to conserve battery power.
Care and Maintenance
Your Sound Professionals preamplifier has been designed and manufactured
to provide a lifetime of trouble-free service. When necessary, you may wipe the
exterior of the case with a soft cloth moistened with clean water, removing
excess moisture with a dry cloth.
Questions and help
If you
have any questions regarding the use of your preamplifier or require help with
these instructions, please feel free to call us at 1-800-213-3021.