The Sonic Aspects

Transformers are used as an alternative to electronic balancing stages in the inputs and outputs.

Transformers can be found in many classics of audio engineering. They make the bass and fundamental tines rounder and give it a little more punch. The high and overtone range sounds a bit silkier and more present.

We find transformers to be advantageous, especially for voices. For highest precision and speed in signal transmission (transient processing), however, electronic stages are better suited. The bottom line is that it is a question of taste and application.

In the Mic Preamplifier

In the case of preamplifiers or channel strips, the 2161 input transformer, which is specially designed for microphone inputs, provides an additional gain of up to 14 dB (depending on the microphone), which must then be added to the scaling.

This relieves the microphone preamplifier. Since the transformer ratio passively increases the level, no noise is added. Therefore, the input transformer is more important than the output transformer in preamplifiers.

However, it is only when both transformers are fitted that all positive sonic aspects are achieved – as well as increased operational reliability.

Internal Linear Power Supply with Shielded Toroidal Transformer	Operating voltage for analog audio : +/- 15 V
Mains Power Supply	Mains voltage (selectable) : 230 V AC / 50; 115 V AC / 60 Hz Fuse for 230 V : T 315 mA Fuse for 115 V : T 630 mA Power consumption : max. 20 W
Analog inputs & output	Maximum input gain (Line) : 28 dBu Maximum input gain (Instrument) : 12 dBu Input impedance (Line) : 12 kΩ Input impedance (Instrument) : 1 MΩ Maximum output gain : 20 dBu Output impedance : 50 Ω Frequency range (-3 dB) : 10 Hz – 180 kHz