Trident A-Range Dual Channel Discrete Microphone Preamp and Equalizer

The A-Range is a 2-channel rack-mountable version of the legendary A Range console. The unit comprises of two independent mono channels, each with a microphone / line amplifier and four band equalizer.

In 1972, Trident Studios decided to buy a new recording console and Malcolm was able to convince the owners that they could build one themselves. The first console was designed purely for Trident Studios and was designated the A-Range. It was band-built by Malcolm and Barry Porter who was responsible for much of the electronics design, while Malcolm used his expertise and knowledge as a recording engineer to specify the facilities and design the ergonomics.

In those days, the integrated circuit had not been invented, so all of the circuits used individual transistors, or discrete design. The use of inductors in the lower and upper mid-equalizer sections are said to account for much of the unique sound of the A-Range. From this first successful design, Trident Audio Developments Ltd was born and became a leading manufacturer in music recording consoles.

In keeping with its mixing console heritage, each channel features insert points (pre / post EQ / bypass), phase reverse, and output level control. All inputs and outputs are fully balanced.

A novel feature of the original A-Range console was the use of long-throw faders for level adjustment, rather than rotary pots. These faders feature a center detent. The EQ also features switchable Low and High Pass Filters.

LED peak level indicators are located after the input amplifiers, after the EQ section, and after the output amplifier to ensure that signal is accurately monitored and matched at every stage of the signal path.

While only 13 A-Range consoles were ever built, a number are still in use today! The 2-Channel A-Range rack unit is an exact replica of the original all-discrete transistor circuitry and faithfully follows Malcolm and Barry's design.

Put a genuine piece of Trident history in your rack!