AMEK Provides Pure Analog Direct to Digital with DMCL
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(Click for a close-up) |
February 12, 2002
AMEK has announced the debut of the
Pure Path Dual Mic-amp Compressor/Limiter (DMCL). The DMCL is the
first Pure Path signal processor to feature digital outputs, making it useful as a front end for any digital console or workstation.
The Pure Path DMCL comprises two identical closely matched microphone and
line amplifiers. The 1U rack-mounting unit also incorporates high and low
pass variable frequency filters, each with switchable slope values, dual
high-resolution compressor-limiters, and simultaneous AES/EBU, S/PDIF and
optical outputs. The sampling frequency is selectable to 44.1, 48, 88.2 or
96kHz with the sync source selectable from word clock or Pro Tools
Superclock.
Legendary audio equipment designer, Mr. Rupert Neve, designs the Pure Path
signal processing products for the company. AMEK's Pure Path range also
includes the 'Channel in a Box' (CIB) and 'Driver in a Box' (DIB).
"The microphone amplifier makes use of my balanced instrument
'Transformer-Like Amplifier' techniques," comments Mr. Rupert Neve,
"providing many of the advantages of a transformer without weight and cost
penalties. In common with my previous designs for the 9098i super analogue
console and the System 9098 range of outboard equipment, the DMCL features
very low noise even at mid gain settings." Care has also been taken to
exclude high order harmonics.
The transformer used in the DMCL line input path is identical to that in
the Pure Path CIB and has been demonstrated to significantly improve
musicality. The microphone amplifier handles up to +26dBu at unity gain,
and may alternatively be switched for use as an instrument input. The
instrument input is accessed via a 1/4-inch jack socket on the front panel
and, with an impedance of 2.2 M Ohms, has been optimized for use with
musical instruments.
The compressor features Mr. Rupert Neve's unique '&MM' (and Much More)
switch, which is also included on the CIB. An A-B link switch allows
identical gain reduction to be applied across both channels. A link button
on channel B enables multiple DMCL units to be daisy-chained for
multichannel surround applications.
Compression may be selected pre or post filters, and the filters may be
switched into the sidechain path. External devices may be inserted via a
send/return point. The insert return connector doubles as the key input.
Mr. Rupert Neve concludes, "The DMCL represents a significant advance in
audio engineering and is designed for engineers and producers who need a
powerful and compact outboard unit. It combines all the favorable sonic
qualities and features that are desirable on the very best analog mixing
consoles with the addition of multi-format digital outputs."
The AMEK Pure Path Dual Mic-amp Compressor/Limiter has a MSRP of $3,995. An
optional configuration, featuring analog outputs only, has an MSRP of $2,995.
For more information, visit their web site at www.amek.com. | 
