SPL GoldMike Mk2 - Dual Channel Mic Preamplifier W/ A/D Converter

The GoldMikeMK2 is the result of all our experience and knowledge from its successful predecessor and represents an improved, more flexible, and more modern version. We have added technologies that have already proven to provide superior tonal results in other SPL products. For example, the instrument input is designed around a class A impedance converter which premiered in the SPL GainStation. A significant contribution to the success of the predecessor was the hybrid preamplifier concept. It combines transistor and tube preamplifier stages and specifically utilizes their technological and sonic advantages: The efficiency and low noise of a discrete transistor stage is enriched with musical coloration of a tube stage.

The transistor stage is composed of single transistors in a class A design. The circuitry is fully discrete, and each transistor is completely optimized for its specific task. You will not find any IC’s in this preamplifier stage because they cannot be optimized for this specific application to the degree we at SPL aim for. This all new discrete class A transistor stage is a genuine innovation in the entire preamplifier market at this price level.

The degree of tube pre-amplification is no longer the fixed +6 dB value of its predecessor. The GoldMikeMK2 sports the selection of three different tube pre-amplifications: +6 dB remains the standard complemented by +12 dB and +18 dB. This allows creative variety with the tube saturation and limiting effects.

We have also added an extra setting to the popular Flair circuitry to give more flexibility to the presence improvement. Because the GoldMikeMK2 is a dual channel preamplifier, its channel separation is of fundamental importance for the stereo image. Therefore the print-board layout is symmetrically mirrored around the power supply in the center from channel 1 to channel 2. This results in an identical signal flow to supporting a naturally balanced stereo image. Additionally the print-board provides extra-large ground areas maximizing the shielding against crosstalk and interference.

Like other converter-compatible SPL products, the GoldMikeMK2 also comes with an internal 24bit/96kHz analog to digtal converter module 1090.

Features

• Discrete Class A solid stage
• Tube drive in three different intensity levels
• Flair presence enhancement in two switchable settings
• Switching inserts
• Pre-output limiter stage (extremely fast diode-based operation, perfect for A/D converter protection)
• VU metering with three different, switchable display ranges
• Front panel instrument input, separate rear-side microphone and line inputs
• Phantom power, phase reverse, pad and high-pass filter (50Hz)

24Bit/192kHz AD Converter Module (1090)
The Analog/Digital Converter Module 1090 is a digital output for compatible GainStation 1 with a plug-and-play design for easy installation. It offers an S/P-DIF output with both coaxial and optical connectors in parallel. The heart of the module is a 24-bit converter with a variable sample rate of up to 192 kHz. Highly accurate quartz oscillators ensure a clean, low-jitter master clock.

The internal sample rate can be switched between 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96 kHz. Other sample rates (32, 176,4 and 192 kHz are set by external syncronization. The converter can be synced to other digital devices via a S/P-DIF input. The internal oscillators are automatically disabled when an external clock signal is present to prevent interference.An extremely effective voltage stabilizing circuit ensures that the converter continuously receives sufficient and stable voltage – an important prerequisite for clean, transparent audio. The compact design of the input stage guarantees the shortest possible signal path to the converter. Over dimensioned grounding surfaces on both sides of the circuit board effectively reduce interference and ensure optimal separation between analog and digital components.