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MICROPHONES
OUTBOARD
SOFTWARE
MONITORS
INSTRUMENTS
– ELIXER –The Buzz Audio Elixir preamplifier module is an excellent compliment to the "fatter" sound of many modules now available in the API 500VPR Series format and has been designed to provide exceptionally low noise wide bandwidth amplification of microphone and instrument signals. The elixir will suit those who desire a recording preamplifier where just a slight amount of bass color is added to the original signal whilst retaining full treble extension and a smooth midrange - warm, sweet, liquid - the perfect blend.
The elixir circuit design is roughly based on the now famous Buzz Audio MA-2.2 mic preamp and utilizes two BE40 True Class A amplifiers in a transformerless input arrangement. Following this is the output stage comprising of two newly designed BE50 True Class A high current audio buffers that drive a Lundahl LL1517 output transformer. As can be seen from the distortion specifications, the presence of the Lundahl output transformer adds a subtle amount of harmonic at low frequencies thereby enhancing the bottom end but without sacrificing the wide bandwidth needed for good clarity and transient response in the top end. The output configuration of the elixir results in a maximum output level of +34dBu before clipping, which means it can comfortably deliver clean audio into all analogue or digital recorders without overload. Gain range of the microphone input is 22dB to 70dB or -2dB to 50dB with the -20dB pad selected. More than enough for ribbon microphones. The input impedance (selected with the IN Z switch) is 4000 ohms in the H position or 1200 ohms in the L position.
The instrument input on the elixir features a "bootstrapped FET" high to low impedance converter that then feeds the elixir amplifier stages. Selection of the instrument input is automatic when a jack is inserted on the front panel input. Gain range of the instrument input is 10db less than the mic input at 12dB to 60dB. The input impedance is switchable 1,000,000 ohms or 20,000 ohms with the IN Z switch. PLEASE NOTE - RACK COMPATIBILITY Each elixir module takes up 1u rack space and draws 150mA +/- 15-18 volts DC, as supplied by frame power supply in which it is fitted. This is generally higher than most modules available from API and other manufacturers. At this time, it is recommended that only two modules are fitted into the API Lunchbox frame along with other modules. The API V500 rack with LP200 external supply will easily power 10 modules. The older API 10 space rack with internal power supply is not suitable for the elixir modules.
The OSA Trackpack and Powerack with the large external supply will easily power a full fit out of elixir modules. Power supply compatibility with other frame manufacturers is not fully known at this time. We will update this information once further testing has been conducted.
– ESSENCE – The essence control circuit design is based on the Buzz Audio SOC-1.1 Stereo Optical Compressor but the main audio path utilizes our BE40 and BE50 True Class A amplifiers along with high spec Lundahl input and output transformers. The input transformer is directly coupled to the Buzz proprietary Opto gain reduction element (completely passive input), amplified and then balanced via the output transformer - a very simple but gutsy signal path! The essence control circuitry utilizes the Differential Drive Side Chain (DDSC) topology that was developed for the SOC-1.1. This system, which processes positive and negative audio waveform in separate paths, provides the incredibly musical characteristic you will hear with this unit. The DDSC design also provides for a much faster attack time compared to most other LDR based optical compressors. Simple side chain equalizers have been provided to allow the user to adjust the sensitivity of the compressor at high and low frequencies. In addition, a side chain insert point is provided for more complex EQ and compressor "keying". The essence consumes 2 slots within a 500 Series rack. The input/output (I/O) connectors associated with the first slot carry the main audio path. The I/O connectors associated with the second slot are used for a side chain insert point (send and return). The insert can be switched in/out of circuit and monitored via front panel switches. PLEASE NOTE - RACK COMPATIBILITY
Each Buzz Audio Essence module uses 2 rack spaces and draws 120mA +/- 15-18 volts DC, as supplied by rack power supply. Most currently manufactured rack systems will easily power a full compliment of essence units, but some older rack systems may have insufficient power, if in doubt, please check with your rack manufacturer. We recommend the API Lunchbox and VPR500 racks. Features:
NOTE: Due to some misinformation during the design of the potion and essence 500 series compressors, the card edge connection for the linking of our 500 Series compressors is incorrect. The potion and essence have PIN 11 designated as the link connection, when in actual fact the API* standard is PIN 6. This error can be easily remedied with a simple wire link soldered between PIN 6 and PIN 11 of the potion and/or essence edge connector.
– TONIC – Before modern semiconductor technology, audio filters and equalizers were made with passive components - capacitors and wound coils of wire that formed inductors (or chokes). Audio frequency chokes were bulky and expensive so these days it's easier (and cheaper) to use an electronic circuit to simulate the inductors. However, we have discovered that the difference in sound between the real thing and a simulator is quite noticeable. So with the tonic equalizer we have brought you the best of both worlds, utilizing both real chokes and electronic filters in perfect harmony. The Buzz Audio Tonic offers 3 bands of equalization with a versatile sweep midrange section and fixed two frequency high and low bands. The tonic also has a high pass filter utilizing another real choke. The signal path of the tonic is all True Class A discrete transistor with the output balanced via a Lundahl* LL1517 high spec transformer. The tonic is designed to fit into the popular API* 500 Series modular racks and requires a rack to function. The Tonic high band is switchable bell or shelf and features two frequency settings of 5kHz and 11kHz. The low band is also switchable bell or shelf with two frequency setting at 120Hz and 60Hz with both bands providing +/- 15dB of boost and cut. Thanks to the use of passive choke based filters, users can expect a very tight sounding bottom end and sparkly clear highs when applying boost with these two bands. The sweep "bell" midrange extends from 75Hz to 1500Hz (x1 mode) or 750Hz to 15000Hz (x10 mode). The midrange "Q" or bandwidth can be selected tight(ish) or broad and utilizes the Constant Amplitude Phase Shift (CAPS) filter circuit developed by Mr Steve Dove. +/-15dB of midrange boost and cut is available. The Tonic 18dB/oct high pass filter is completely passive with two turn over frequencies (50Hz or 90Hz) selected by the user via jumpers on the circuit board. Completing the picture is the "OL" LED which illuminates when levels exceed +20dBu and the "BYP" switch which completely removes the tonic from the signal path. Rack Compatibility The Tonic uses 1 rack space and draws 120mA +/- 15-18 volts DC, as supplied by frame power supply. Power consumption is higher than most other 500 series modules and this may stress some rack power supplies depending on what other modules are fitted. Please check the following list to see if it will work OK in your rack. API Lunchbox 6B - recommend only two tonic modules are fitted along with other modules. API 500VPR with L200PS - no problems. Atlas Pro Audio Revolver - no problems. OSA Power Rack and Track Pack - no problems if you have the 3A external power supply. BAE 6 & 11 Slot Racks - not tested, check with B.A.E. for power capacity. Features:
The best gear advice always comes from those who use it the most. That's where you come in! Let the pro audio world hear your voice with a review of the Buzz Audio Elixir, Essence & Tonic Bundle . Once you submit your review, please check your email and verify your address to have it posted.
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