Sontronics CHIMERA - single channel preamp/DI box
Posted on February 15, 2008
Filed Under Preamp/DI, Studio Shenanigans |
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If high quality preamps are on your wishlist this month, then the Sontronics CHIMERA certainly boasts to be just that. But it’s a user friendly piece of kit with two distinct forms. Like Optimus Prime, then.
The Sontronics CHIMERA is a single-channel preamp/DI box that offers two discrete circuits: at the flick of a switch, you can choose between the character of the solid-state amplifier or the smooth, silky tones served up by the valve preamp. Each vintage circuit design is totally unique to Sontronics, employing custom-made transformers.
…like Optimus Prime!
“Sontronics is all about offering musicians the tools they need to perfect the front end of their recording chain,” says brand founder Trevor Coley, “and ever since I launched Sontronics, I’ve wanted to create a preamp that did exactly that.”
Additional features include a variable high-pass filter, three-stage attenuation and phase controls, and electronically balanced inputs and outputs .
“We have some amazingly talented engineers working for us in the Far East, but this project has grown out of my meeting with some great musicians and technicians on my visits to Portugal,” says Coley. “They have turned my concepts for a preamp into a stunning reality, and it’s all been done without a single trip outside our own continent. In this age of carbon emission awareness, this is something we’re very proud of and we already have blueprints for several complementary products due to join our line-up in the near future.”
GBR £680
EUR €999
USD $1399 all exluding VAT/Tax
USEFUL INFORMATION
• Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz max. +/-0.5dB (solid-state), max. +/-0.7dB (valve)
• Controls: Line/mic/48V input selector, input gain 0-60dB, high-pass filter (linear to 200Hz, stepped),
attenuation (0dB, -10dB, -20dB), phase reverse, mode select, master output level
• Inputs (all analogue): Balanced XLR/jacks front and rear
• Outputs (all analogue): Balanced XLR/jack rear, insert point
• Metering: Input/output VU meter, signal and clip LEDs
• Valve: Electro-Harmonix ECC82/12AU7 (branded)
• Power: mains powered via IEC 100V-240V switchable
• Format: Desktop unit with rack kit option (two units can sit side-by-side in rack)
• Available: March 2008
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