Knif SORA Vacuum Tube Saturation and Distortion Device

The Knif SORA is a versatile push-pull tube saturation and distortion device intended for audio mastering and mixing applications. Due to the wide range of precision controls it excels in mastering and master bus use, and the use range covers many other grounds as well.

PREMIUM SIGNAL PATH AND TRANSFORMER ARCHITECTURE

Sora is equipped with MS encoding and decoding, two sets of different interstage transformers, and a wide variety of precision adjustments for ultimate versatility. The character of the unit is solely created by the SQ Phillips NOS pentode tubes and the Lundahl interstage transformers. There are two C-core transformers available, a silicon iron core and a nanocrystalline core, and the Sora design allows the user to toggle between the two transformers during operation. While the silicon iron transformer represents a "normal" transformer with some character, the nanocrystalline transformer has virtually no hysteresis, thus adding no coloration throughout the audio range.

TRANSPARENT PROCESSING AND FLEXIBLE FREQUENCY CONTROL

The rest of the circuit utilizes the best available JFET-input IC operational amplifiers (OPA828) for absolute transparency. One of the key features of Sora is the ability to select the frequency range to be processed using the X-Over filters while retaining a flat frequency response. Sora also features parallel processing capability and an unprecedented ability to tailor the distortion spectrum.

PRECISION CONTROLS AND ADVANCED POWER SUPPLY DESIGN

All rotary controls, except X-Fade, utilize Elma rotary switches for ultimate precision and longevity. X-Fade is an Alps Blue potentiometer known for its excellent channel balance. There are three regulated low-voltage supplies and no fewer than six regulated high-voltage supplies. The power supply design includes a separate anode high-voltage supply for each channel and an adjustable high-voltage supply for each tube's screen grid, allowing individual bias current settings without compromising dynamic response.

KNIF SORA FEATURES:

• Push-pull tube saturation and distortion device with MS matrix
• Comprehensive crossover filtering options for frequency selective processing
• Wide range gain adjustments for ultimate versatility
• Parallel processing capability
• Highly predictable and powerful control of the harmonic spectrum and phase via the Symmetry adjustment
• Distortion circuit consisting of SQ Phillips NOS pentode vacuum tubes in a push-pull configuration
• Selectable Lundahl interstage transformers with nanocrystalline and silicon iron cores
• Soft touch collet knobs for optimal touch and feel
• Stepped controls for all rotary adjustments using Elma switches (except the X-fade control)