Barge Concepts Announces MB-1 Envelope Controlled Filter, aka The Grinder

(Click for a close-up)

(Click for a close-up)

This extremely versatile analog filter is based on the LoveTone™ Meatball™ design, with all the usual upgrades and enhancements you've come to expect from Barge Concepts. The MB-1 has been designed around the Hammond 1590DD, a rugged aluminum enclosure that is nearly 20 square inches smaller than the original, while still providing room for the abundance of switches, rotary controls, and signal jacks. Active buffering has been added to all the signal ins and outs, with a variable gain (0-10 dB) control provided for the Send path of the effects loop. All of the op- amps in the signal path have been replaced with Burr-Brown low noise, low distortion units, and the pots have been upgraded to top quality, metal shaft Alpha pots for improved repeatability and a more consistent feel. The blend circuit has been upgraded with an optically-isolated expression control (yup, now there are THREE expression options!), similar to the one used on the innovative VFB-x, and a significantly improved envelope generator featuring a full wave rectifier.

With these feature rich, space-saving, signal-improving upgrades, the MB-1 is the most versatile, dynamic, consistently controllable envelope filter available.

MB-1 Features:

• Rugged, aluminum Hammond 1590DD enclosure with a footprint nearly 20 sq inches
smaller than the original.
• 3PDT true bypass switching.
• LED indicators for Bypass/Active and envelope activity.
• Low noise, audio grade, Burr Brown op-amps.
• 1%, metal film resistors used throughout
• High quality mica, film, and tantalum capacitors for unmatched signal fidelity.
• Metal Switchcraft jacks.
• Alpha pots with metal shafts and set-screw knobs.
• 4-layer circuit board, silk-screened and solder-masked.
• All jacks mounted on the North end to save board space.
• Industry standard 9V DC power jack with operation supported up to 16V
• 7 day return policy
• Lifetime Transferable Warranty.

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MB-1, available February/March 2008, list price $400

The MB-1 will initially be made available to members of the Barge Concepts mailing list at an introductory discount, and then offered for Global Direct sales through the Barge Concepts web site:

For more information, visit their web site at www.bargeconcepts.com.