Introducing the MPE-200 ($4495 list), the first product in the Element 78 Series from Summit Audio, designed by the legendary Rupert Neve. This new unit presents the user with a classic "discrete class A" transistor and transformer coupled design. Unique implementation of storage and reset capabilities enables comparison of the settings in memory, copying of settings between units, and full MIDI control.

The MPE-200 includes two channel high performance microphone amplifiers with a dual range High Pass / Low Pass filter section with coarse and fine gain control for each section. It also includes instrument input amplifiers (for your guitar, bass or synth) plus an independent four-band classic equalizer. The unit has massive dynamic range with virtually no high order harmonics (which, as any pro will tell you, is the true mark of well-designed equipment).

The two rackspace MPE-200 allows you to store, reset and copy all your parameters into 25 user-definable memory locations and even has remote control. It's fully MIDI controllable and includes floating and balanced output transformers. Another nice feature is the traditional analog type controls and readouts for ease of operation. Naturally, low noise 48-volt phantom power is included. The Coarse Mode features stepped gain control of 4dB for each step of the 17 positions. In Fine Mode, there are 17 positions of gain control with 1.0dB per step. Frequency Response (filters out) is -0.5dB 10Hz to 100kHz. Output noise at Unity Gain (filters out) is actually less than -105 dBu and total harmonic distortion and noise (at 8dB gain) is below 0.0025%.

If you're a "specs" fanatic, call your Sales Engineer for all the impressive numbers. For the rest of us, just knowing that Mr. Neve designed this module is quite enough, thank you, we'll take one. So call us for further information and your special pricing on the Summit MPE-200.

Over the years, live music has become synonymous with volume. The louder the mix, however, the more difficult it becomes for the band members to hear themselves. All of which can make it next to impossible for a vocalist to hit the right notes or a guitarist to inject any subtlety into his or her playing. Traditional "floor wedge" monitor systems attempt to solve the problem by aiming a mixed signal back at the band members. Unfortunately, they create almost as many problems as they solve, taking up valuable space on crowded stages, causing feedback problems and they're a pain to transport.

While early attempts at ear-worn (or "in ear") personal monitors have addressed the performers' needs, they have presented a whole different set of problems, ranging from mediocre sound quality to limited user flexibility to astronomical prices. But now, that's changed. The TEC Award-nominated Shure Personal Stereo Monitor PSMTM 600 ($840 list) features crystal-controlled analog operation for superior sound quality, delivers a full frequency range and great stereo separation. Even the deepest bass notes come through loud and clear. The PSMTM 600 features a significantly lower noise floor: Its signal-to-noise ratio is an impressive 80dB compared with the 60dB typical of other personal monitors. This huge reduction in background noise translates into less ear fatigue. Combined with the system's on-board limiter, users can hear their mix clearly at lower volumes, so they can concentrate on their performance.

However, the most impressive PSMTM 600 feature may well be Shure's exclusive MixMode technology. This unique feature truly puts the "personal" in "personal stereo monitor." It allows the user to take unprecedented control over the mix he or she hears through the earpieces, providing the ultimate in system flexibility. Of course, both stereo and mono modes are also included.

The PSM 600 is available in your choice of wired or UHF wireless ($1590 list) configurations. Each comes complete with a set of E1 earpieces which combine the advantages of custom-molded and universal designs. The E1's unique design projects further into the ear than typical earpieces, thanks to a tube surrounded by a replaceable foam insert. The result is a tighter seal for better isolation and a snug fit that holds the earpiece firmly in the user's ear. Each system includes six pairs of foam tips. Bottom line: Call us for more information and your special Sweetwater pricing.