Sebatron Maximus Single Channel Mic Pre, from Sebatron

Circuit Topology: Single ended Class A Dual 12AT7 Triode Gain Stage OR Discrete Solid State Class A

Input: Transformer Balanced Microphone

Input: Unbalanced Direct Inputs

Low Cut Filter: 40Hz - 440Hz fully variable

Phantom Power: +48 vDC

Maximum Gain: 65dB to 70dB

Maximum Output Level: Balanced XLR Pin 2 hot :+26dB into 600 ohms | Balanced TRS jack : +22dB

Noise: -120dB at 60dB Gain

Frequency Response: 10hz-110khz +/-2db

Weight: 5.5kg

Dimensions: 482mm x 150mm x 88mm

Maximus has two distinctly different main gain brains sharing common input and output stages, one pure valve, the other using discrete transistors. The Maximus preamp from Sebatron has been designed as the all-inclusive organic front-end preamplifier for modern computer based recording systems

Maximus has a transformer balanced XLR Microphone input, with switchable Phase Reverse and Phantom Power.

The High Impedance D.I. input is intended for passive instruments that are traditonally run through an amplifier and require a high input impedance in order to produce their true sound, such as guitars and basses. The Low Impedance D.I. Input is intended for instruments with active output circuitry, such as many modern basses, keyboards, amp simulators and line level signals.

There is a variable High Pass Filter which allows the user to roll off subsonic or very low frequency signals like rumble and hum or clean up unnecessary bottom end on instruments or voice. The filter is fully hard-bypassable, with no audible noise or distortions which often plague EQ circuits

The Valve gain stage uses two 12AT7 valves and is similar to two Sebatron VMP Series channels linked up in series. The high tension rail is around +300 VDC before the anodes, ensuring a wide dynamic range and noise free response. The valve filaments are powered by a DC rail for minimal induced noise. The amount of valve colour or 'drive' is fully variable via the dedicated Valve gain control. This means program material can be recorded clean and transparent through to coloured and dirty simply by setting the valve gain control to the required degree. The response is warm and focussed.

The Solid State gain stage uses discrete silicon transistors to achieve a clean but musically friendly original sonic flavour, not unlike some of the classic solid state preamps of the past. The transistors are also run on a high voltage rail which maintains a wide dynamic range and preserves transient detail right up to 110khz with a very low noise floor. The response is tight and wide.

Each topology (Valve/Solid State) has its own gain level adjustment, from less than +10 db to around 70 db of total gain. The final Output Level control allows the user to easily interface the unit with many other devices while still permitting the user to drive the gain stages as desired. There are absolutely no integrated circuits. The entire signal path, including both main gain stages and the balanced output driver are single-ended discrete Class A.