Speck Electronics MP 5.0 Description

What is the MicPre 5.0?

The "MicPre 5.0" is a complete single channel microphone preamp that offers features and flexibility for use in the most serious recording applications.

The signal path consists of a matched discrete transistor front-end, premium IC's, and transformer output stage. With the push of a button, the MP5.0 can change from an "Transformer-Balanced" output to a "Active-Balanced" output.

The compact 1/2 rack format of the MP5.0 can easily be rack mounted and combined with the Speck Model ASC equalizer to create a highly functional outboard channel strip.

The MicPre 5.0 also includes a mix section that makes it perfect for DAW's and remote recording.

What is Mix Node?

The mix section of the MicPre 5.0 provides a separate left/right mix out with level, pan and mute.

With only a simple interface cable, this mix section, or "Mix Node" can be linked with any number of MP5.0's to form a fully integrated mix section.

In many situations such as desktop or location recording, this expandable feature of the MP5.0 can eliminate the need for a separate audio mixer.

Flexible signal routing

The MP5.0 is more than a mic pre. It gives you a surprising number of signal routing alternatives. Just use your imagination when plugging up the MP5.0.

Since the MP5.0 works with balanced or unbalanced gear, you will not be stuck looking for the proper cable or worrying about level compatibility between dissimilar gear.

Speck Electronics MP 5.0 Features

• Matched discrete transistor input / transformer output.
• 70 dB of preamp gain.
• Precision stepped gain control with variable trim control.
• Variable high pass filter.
• Mix output section with level, pan and mute.
• Mix section can be "linked" with additional MP5.0's.
• Transformer "and" active balanced outputs.
• High resolution 10 segment LED VU meter.
• Internal power supply with toroidal transformer.
• All input, output, and insert connectors are balanced.
• Can be combined with the Model ASC EQ to form a Channel Strip.

Speck Electronics MP 5.0 Tech Specifications

• Gain Range (Mic): 70 dB total; +10 to +60dB in 5dB steps; -10/+10 variable trim
• Gain Range (D.I.): -20 to +40 dB in 5 dB steps;
• THD+N: (Gain +40, Output +12dBu); 002% nominal
• Noise EIN (22Hz-22kHz):   -126 dBu (150 ohm, 60dB gain)
• Freqency Response: 10Hz-200kHz (+0/-3dB)
• Mic input impedence(10Kz): 4.6k ohms
• D.I. input impedence: 50k ohms
• Maximum input level: +18dBu (without pad); +30dBu (with 20dB pad in)
• Max. output level (10k load): +28dBu at active outputs; +24dBu at transformer output
• HP Filter: 30Hz-250Hz (12dB/octave)
• Phantom Power: +48V regulated
• Dimensions: HxWxD=1.75" x 8.5" x 8.00" (44mm x 216mm x 203mm)
• Weight: 5 Lbs. (2.27kg)
• Power Requirements: 100-120 VAC 50-60Hz; 220-240 VAC 50-60Hz

Speck Electronics MICPRE 5.0 Review / See All ZenPro Audio Reviews Here: Review Page   The MICPRE 5.0 s a utility preamp with excellent features and sound, made in the USA by Vince Poulos and company. With 70dB of gain available (stepped gain with a variable +/- 10dB trim), DI available on the unit’s face, -20dB pad, variable hi-pass (30hZ to 250hZ @ 12dB per octave), Jensen transformer and active balanced outputs (you select), LED metering and the ability to use as a mixer with other Speck units, the 5.0 is feature packed for sure.   The MICPRE 5.0 is a clean sort of sound overall, with a linear sound that doesn’t seem to light up any brighter, darker, thicker etc but rather a true delivery of the source. It has an extended response so top and bottom are quite full and well represented. There is plenty of gain for ribbons or hungry moving coil mics, and phantom for your condensers. I like meters on preamps and the 5.0 sports a very nice LED style meter with enough info. One thing I dig is the optional Jensen transformer which when switched in adds a bit of “sheen” or traction to the sound. It’s very subtle but can be nice on lots of stuff that needs just a hint of vibe and weight. The build quality is excellent, and looking inside you can see lots of high quality components laid out beautifully. The 5.0 can be linked in “MIX NODE” to other modules to form a small portable mixer as well, and integrates wonderfully with the Speck ASC equalizer series.   Conclusion: For clean and robust sound and the ability to toss a dash of transformer vibe on top, the 5.0 excels. Stack them up to form a remote recording rig as well.