SPL P8 8-Channel Microphone Preamp - Discrete Analog Excellence
The SPL P8 is a high-performance 8-channel microphone preamplifier designed for pristine multi-channel recording. Featuring fully discrete, transistor-based preamps, it delivers open, transparent sound without ICs, ideal for capturing vocals, drums, and instruments with exceptional clarity. Each channel offers +8 to +62 dB gain, 48V phantom power, a -20 dB pad, phase reverse, and an 80 Hz high-pass filter. With optional 192 kHz ADAT conversion, dual DB25 analog outputs, and a toroidal transformer power supply, the P8 is a versatile, high-end solution for professional studios.
Discrete Analog Preamps
The P8’s eight discrete preamps, built with individual transistors, provide a clean, open sound with minimal noise (EIN: -124 dBu). With a gain range of +8 to +62 dB and a max input level of 13.5 dBu, they handle demanding microphones and high-SPL sources like percussion or brass. Each channel includes switchable 48V phantom power, a -20 dB pad, phase reverse, and a 6 dB/octave 80 Hz high-pass filter to reduce subsonic noise, ensuring flexibility for diverse recording applications.
Flexible Output Options
The P8 offers two DB25 analog outputs for channels 1–8, allowing simultaneous connection to AD converters and backup recording devices without external splitters. An optional 8-channel ADAT converter with AKM AK5538 ADC chip supports up to 192 kHz, replacing one DB25 output for direct digital integration with audio interfaces. The low 75 ohm output impedance ensures compatibility with a wide range of gear, delivering pristine audio to your DAW or console.
Robust Studio Design
Housed in a 1U rackmount chassis with a shielded toroidal transformer power supply, the P8 ensures low-noise operation (+/-18V for audio, +12V for relays/LEDs). Signal LEDs (green at -25 dBu, yellow at 0 dBu, red at +19 dBu or -3 dBFS with AD converter) provide clear monitoring. Handcrafted in Germany, its compact design (19 x 1.73 x 9.33 in, 9.15 lbs) and rugged build make it a reliable choice for studio and live recording sessions.
Key Features of the SPL P8
- 8-channel discrete transistor preamps for transparent sound
- Gain range: +8 to +62 dB, max input: 13.5 dBu
- Per-channel 48V phantom, -20 dB pad, phase reverse, 80 Hz HPF
- Dual DB25 analog outputs or optional 8-channel ADAT converter (192 kHz)
- Ultra-low noise: EIN -124 dBu, THD+N 0.003% (30 dB gain)
- Signal LEDs: -25 dBu (green), 0 dBu (yellow), +19 dBu/-3 dBFS (red)
- Shielded toroidal transformer power supply for low-noise operation
- Input impedance: 10 kΩ, output impedance: 75 Ω
- Handcrafted in Germany, 1U rackmount design
- 2-year warranty
Technical Specifications
- Type: 8-channel microphone preamplifier
- Inputs: 8x XLR (mic, balanced)
- Outputs: 2x DB25 (analog, balanced) or 1x DB25 + 8-channel ADAT (optional)
- Gain Range: +8 to +62 dB
- Max Input Level: 13.5 dBu
- Input Impedance: 10 kΩ
- Output Impedance: 75 Ω
- EIN: -124 dBu (150 Ω, 30 dB gain)
- THD+N: 0.003% (1 kHz, 30 dB gain), 0.022% (63 dB gain)
- Frequency Range: 15 Hz–200 kHz
- CMRR: < 78 dB (1 kHz)
- Power: Internal linear PSU, 230V/50 Hz or 115V/60 Hz, max 27 VA
- Dimensions: 19 x 1.73 x 9.33 in (482 x 44 x 237 mm)
- Weight: 9.15 lbs (4.15 kg)
- Warranty: 2-year limited
Included Accessories
- SPL P8 8-Channel Preamp
- Power cable