Harman’s dbx Professional has introduced the new model 676 tube mic pre channel strip, a vacuum tube-based microphone preamplifier that offers a host of flexible sound-tailoring options to deliver audio quality in recording and live sound applications.
The dbx 676 employs a high-gain, Class A tube preamp section based around a 12AU7 vacuum tube that can be adjusted to be clean and pure-sounding or “dirty” and full of harmonic character. The 676 incorporates the compressor/limiter design from the dbx 162SL and a 3-band parametric EQ, enabling exacting control of dynamics and tonal balance.
“We created the dbx 676 to be nothing less than the ultimate mic preamp,” says Jason Kunz, market manager, Portable PA and Recording & Broadcast, Harman Signal Processing. “Whether you need a preamp that provides pristine, rich sound quality and tube warmth, want to add some edge and personality to vocals and instruments or are seeking to improve the sound of your recording or live rig, the dbx 676 is the ideal tool for taking your sound to the highest level.”
The dbx 676 offers 1/4-inch and XLR inputs and outputs, a front-panel instrument input and a side chain insert. An optional digital output card is available. The 676 allows for precise tailoring of input and output levels which can be monitored by its large multi-function VU meter.
The compressor/limiter section provides extremely flexible control of dynamics including threshold, attack, gain and release, auto attack and release, hard and soft knee compression, dbx-exclusive AutoVelocity manual and OverEasy modes and PeakStop limiting algorithm and many additional functions. The 676’s 3-band parametric EQ allows adjustment of level and bandwidth at frequencies that have been carefully chosen for maximum musical effectiveness.
The 676 is designed for ease of use, with vintage-style controls and VU metering. It has a military-grade build for added reliability, and mounts in a 2U rack space.
The new dbx 676 tube mic pre channel strip will be available in January 2015 at a U.S. street price of $999.95.
