Going Big With The SPL BiG 500 Series Stereo Expander

Just ahead of the 2022 NAMM Show, SPL announced BiG ($649), a versatile 500 Series stereo expander that opens up new creative ways to sculpt sound with just three intuitive controls. Watch below to hear SPL BiG in action, as we show off how each of the controls affects the sound in our latest Quick Hits video, recorded on location at the Vintage King Nashville Showroom.

BiG is SPL’s new “stereo image bigger maker,” utilizing technology from some of the brand’s most popular products. Don’t let its size fool you—this compact double-slot 500 Series module is perfect for making your tracks sound larger than life. Featuring innovative controls for Range, Stage, and Bigness, BiG makes it easy to zero in on specific frequencies in your mix and adjust the sound stage from front to back and side to side.

To enhance the stereo image of a track, start by selecting the frequency range you wish to affect using the Range controls. When turned counterclockwise, BiG focuses only on the high frequencies, while turning the knob clockwise will open up the filter and include frequencies from 10 Hz - 10 kHz.

After selecting a frequency range using the Range controls, use the Stage controls to adjust the sound stage. Turn the knob to the left to push the selected frequency range back in the mix, or turn it to the right to bring it to the front of the mix for a punchy, in-your-face sound. Next, use the Bigness controls to increase the intensity of the stereo image shaping.

Last but not least, the Bass switch introduces a powerful bass boost following the Bigness section by utilizing a passive filter, similar to the AirBass function of SPL’s popular IRON Mastering Compressor.

If you have any questions about SPL or are interested in purchasing the BiG Stereo Expander we can help! Please contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.