M196sx
The M196sx is the third generation of class a vacuum tube preamps from Peach Audio. There are two key aspects to its sound. First is excellent transient response, to capture every element of a performance, including the subtle details of the surrounding acoustics. Second is an ultra-wide dynamic range so this detail isn’t lost in the noise floor. Maintaining the balance between technical specs and musicality is our key benchmark. Often overlooked, the power supply is one of the most important parts of any audio design. Our zero-feedback high voltage regulators, linear DC heater supplies and attention to ground currents ensure an ultra-low noise floor and uncompromised transient response. Controls are designed for practical, efficient, repeatable, long-term use in recording studios. Construction design is focused on reliability and servicability.
Specifications
input gain
+18 dB to + 62 dB of input gain in 4 dB steps
output gain
11dB of output attenuation in 1dB steps
impedance
four input impedances to provide optimum loading
for both 50 Ω and 200 Ω microphones
instrument
2.7 MΩ unbalanced instrument input (using mono plug)
Also provides a post-input transformer, instrument level insert point
for effects pedals, re-amping etc. (using stereo to dual mono cable.
otl
transformerless unbalanced output (pin 2 hot)
maximum output level +26 dBu min load 10 kΩ
frequency response
10 Hz to 30 kHz ± 0.5dB
mains input
selectable from rear panel 120 V and 240 V (50-60 Hz)
low pass filter
6 dB/octave cut @ 4 kHz, 8 kHz, 16 kHz
e1 6 dB boost @ 16 kHz, e2 9 dB boost @ 16 kHz
source
mic, mic + 48v @ 50mA, line – all xlr transformer balanced
option provides i/o access for additional interfaces
vu meters
+4 dBu, +14 dBu, +24 dBu selectable reference levels
polarity
0°, 180° reverses output polarity relative to input
a/b
two independent class a vacuum tube preamplifiers
ein
–125 dBu a-weighted, source impedance 150 Ω, all filters flat
dimensions
width 483 mm, depth 430 mm, height 90 mm (2ru). weight 13.1 kg
high pass filter
6 dB/octave cut @ 20 Hz, 40 Hz, 60 Hz, 80 Hz, 120 Hz
attenuation
24 dB of input attenuation in 8 dB steps
mute
mutes audio at output, vu meters remain operational
xfmr
transformer balanced output (pin 2 hot)
maximum output level +18 dBu min load 600 Ω
m/s
mid/side encoded stereo output using an output transformer matrix
thd
0.07% @ 18 dB gain, 1kHz