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From Our Research Team:

Aphex 1788A 8-channel Microphone Preamp with Optional Remote Control and Digital

Aphex' 1788A 8-channel Preamp is a 2U rackspace pre for stage or studio. The idea behind the 1788A is that even with balanced cable runs, mics sound better when the signal doesn't have to travel great distances to get where it's going. Aphex believes that by coupling the 1788A with the optional 1788ARC remote control will give you the shortest cable runs possible and dramatically improve the sound quality.

Aphex 1788A At a Glance:

• Easily Transported Size
  
• Microphone Output Limiter
  
• Adjustable Maximum Output Level
  
• Separate Analog Outputs

Easily Transported Size
The Model 1788 contains eight preamps in 2RU space. Since there is a fair amount of heat dissipation, there should be at least 1RU spacing between every preamp. In that configuration, they may be stacked to provide 40 channels of high quality preamps in a standard 16RU road case.

Microphone Output Limiter
All preamps have a maximum input level. Once that level is exceeded, there is no way to remove that very unpleasant distortion. In order to avoid that occurrence, many engineers set the preamp so that the expected peak level at maximum sound level is still at least 12dB below the clip point. While this provides some insurance against the preamp clipping, it causes a loss of noise performance and, in the case of digital, a loss of resolution. The Model 1788 has a unique limiter (patent pending) in the front end of the preamp which limits the output level of the microphone by as much as 20dB, hence the name 'Microphone Output Limiter'. This allows the engineer to get maximum noise performance and also allows maximum resolution for an analog to digital converter, all without worrying about crashing the preamp. The Model 1788A has 39dB of adjustable input gain and fixed gain of 26dB for a total maximum gain of 65dB. There is a 26dB pad which will allow a preamp to be run as a unity gain buffer stage. For example, this allows the line level output of a wireless mic receiver to be fed into the preamp.

Adjustable Maximum Output Level
The maximum output level of the Model 1788 is +24dBm (loaded into 600 Ohms) balanced. There are, however, many input stages which have odd maximum input levels (e.g.-+18dBu). In order to retain the function of the microphone limiter and maximize noise performance of the entire audio system, the Model 1788 has output level trim of up to 24dB. Once the maximum input level of the device following the Model 1788 is defined, the output level of the 1788 can be trimmed to that exact level. The input gain of the 1788 is then adjusted to achieve optimum performance. In addition to the 24db of output adjustment, each output may be muted.

Separate Analog Outputs
Microphones are often passively split and then fed to two or more locations. The Model 1788 has two separately trimmable, buffered analog outputs. The main output on XLR is transformerless servo-balanced and the second output is tranformerless balanced on a DB25 multipin connector. This allows two separate inputs to be fed at optimal levels from an optimized mic preamp.

Aphex' Model 1788A provides eight preamps in 2RU space. All of its settings are remotely controllable via Ethernet or MIDI, using Aphex' hardware remote or on PC or Mac using the company's 1788SW control software. The 1788A features Aphex' proprietary MicLim technology, a unique, patented limiter in the front end of the preamp which limits the output of the microphone by as much as 20dB. It has two separately trimmable, buffered analog outputs as well as optional digital outputs (AES/EBU, TDIF and ADAT) with selectable sampling rates up to 96kHz. LeNA, the 1788A's digitally controlled Low Noise Amplifier, allows its input gain to be adjusted in 0.125dB steps and 1dB stops without noise or glitches. There is also an optional digital output module, the 1788-1, available with AES/EBU, TDIF, and ADAT outputs at 24-bit/44.1, 48, and 96kHz (AES only).

Aphex 1788A Features:

• 2U Rackspace
  
• 8 Channels
  
• Microphone Output Limiter
  
• Adjustable Microphone Output
  
• Separate Analog Output
  
• Up to 40 Channels of I/O can be Stored in a 16U rack
  
• Optional Remote Control Available
  
• Optional Digital Output Module Also Available
  
• 24-bit
  
• 44.1-96kHz
  
• Ultra-Low Noise Operation
  
• 1788A Preamp is Now Controllable via Pro Tools and Mac!
  
• Perfect for FOH or Studio Engineers

Aphex' 1788A is a great sounding and easily expandable system for stage or studio!

Specification Detail Preamp Type Solid State Number of Channels 8 Frequency Response 10Hz-20kHz Phantom Power Yes EQ No Compression Yes Analog Inputs 8 x XLR (Mic) Analog Outputs 8 x XLR (Line), 1 x DB-25 (Aux Out) Digital Inputs No Digital Inputs Digital Outputs 1 x AES/EBU (DB-15), 1 x ADAT (Optical), 1 x TDIF (DB-25) Other I/O MIDI In, Out, Thru, 1 x RS-232, 1 x Word Clock In and Out (BNC) Computer Connectivity 1 x Ethernet (LAN) Rackmount Spaces 2U Height 3.5" Depth 14.5" Width 19" Weight 14 lbs. Manufacturer Part Number 1788A

What Does "Special Order" Mean? A special-order product is one that we don't normally keep in stock. We order it from the manufacturer as soon as you order from us. We have great relationships with all the manufacturers we carry, so we can get your special order to you as fast as or faster than anyone else. Remember that special orders are non-returnable and non-cancelable, so make sure the item is right for you. A Sweetwater Sales Engineer can help you decide - call (800) 222-4700 for assistance!

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