KV2 Audio has announced the launch of the 500 Series, a new range of processors comprised of the TCL thermo-compressor/limiter, QD8 stereo 8-band master EQ with line driver, and MPA microphone preamplifier, all available directly from the company’s online store (here). The new 500 Series range of processors from KV2 Audio.
The TCL is an analog thermo compressor with natural RMS detector and dynamic voice bass enhancement control. The patented technology is designed to offer musical and natural compression that is a component part of its real-time input rather than the usual side-fed gain reduction circuit attempting to either follow or anticipate compression demands.
In addition, a bass balance control circuit allows the user to smooth out and minimize any proximity effects from a changing microphone position. It provides source intelligent attack and release times, whatever the dynamic content.
The QD8 is a George Krampera 8-band stero equalizer specifically designed to highlight a desired band without adversely affecting the overall sonic landscape. While not intended for tuning out room modes, the frequency bands and filter types have been chosen after extensive research to better align with human hearing and our perception of achieving a high degree of spectral balance.
Finally, the MPA is a high-definition microphone and musical instrument preamplifier with class-A circuitry and a transformer-balanced output. A stepped input gain selector is provided for precise repeatability of settings. The preamp offers adjustable high- and low-pass filters, with an adjustable limiter to control clip level and a transformer-isolated high-impedance line input.
It also has a further auxiliary transformer balanced isolated output, meaning a number of these units can be used together to create a multi-channel stage preamp for splitting front of house and monitoring outputs, or for broadcast and recording duties — delivering them all through line drivers with audio quality. Phase reverse and an in-built headphone amplifier, which doubles up as a third output, completes the feature set. The MPA can replace a preamplifier, DI-box/splitter, line driver and headphone amplifier in one box.
Andreas Hammerich, director, technical production management and sound designer for leading Germany musical theatre production company Stage Entertainment, was able to test the new devices in a colleague’s studio and states, “The compressor and the EQ are the finest sound shaping devices I have heard so far. The most impressive quality of the compressor is the way it takes the annoying, “ear pressuring” part away without changing the natural sound of the voice. And it sounds totally transparent, there are no audible artefacts at all. For me they make all other compressors redundant — unless you particularly require certain audible colors or effects, of course.”
All three units are shipping and available from the KV2 e-shop here.
