The Harrison 32Classic MS is a high-performance, all-analogue channel strip designed to bring the legendary sound and advanced processing tools of the renowned Harrison 32Classic recording console into a compact 19-inch rack format, combining a transformer-coupled microphone preamp, powerful parametric equalisation, musical filters, and an integrated stereo mix bus for flexible hybrid workflows.

Comprehensive Input Section

The 32Classic MS provides an extensive input section to accommodate various recording scenarios. It features dedicated XLR connections for both microphone and line-level inputs on the rear panel, while a front-panel combi-XLR input adds additional convenience, supporting switchable Instrument/Hi-Z and microphone options. The microphone input includes essential utilities such as 48V phantom power, a -20 dB pad, a phase flip switch, and a tri-colour LED meter for visual monitoring. Independent gain controls for the microphone and line inputs allow precise signal adjustments, ensuring optimal performance and versatility in any recording or production environment.

Harrison Transformer-Coupled Microphone Preamp

Central to the 32Classic MS is its premium transformer-coupled microphone preamp, delivering up to 70 dB of clean gain. Powered by the renowned Jensen JT-MB-CPCA transformer, this preamp produces a warm, rich sound signature with a full low-end, open midrange, and smooth, natural highs. The transformer’s unique characteristics, including a gentle roll-off at the frequency extremes and subtle phase shifts, result in a sweet and musical tone ideal for capturing vocals, instruments, or any source material.

Low-Pass and High-Pass Filters

The Low-Pass and High-Pass filters on the 32Classic MS, inherited from the original 3232 console, are designed to sculpt the sound with precision and character. Featuring a 12 dB/octave slope, the High-Pass filter operates from 25 Hz to 3.1 kHz and includes a distinctive 3 dB resonant peak. The Low-Pass filter, adjustable from 160 Hz to 20 kHz, effectively removes unwanted rumble or high-frequency harshness. Together, these filters enhance tonal clarity and provide additional creative possibilities when paired with the unit’s EQ section.

Iconic 4-Band Parametric Equaliser

The 32Classic MS integrates the iconic 4-band parametric equaliser from Harrison’s 32Classic console, celebrated for its broad, musical curves and precise frequency sculpting. Originally developed in the 1970s to ensure recordings sounded exceptional on the way in, this EQ has been trusted by legendary engineers in some of the world’s most prestigious studios. Each frequency band is carefully tuned, and the proportional-Q design offers a powerful yet natural response, making it an essential tool for shaping any source material.

Integrated Stereo Mix Bus

Designed for hybrid workflows and expanding recording systems, the 32Classic MS features an integrated stereo mix bus that allows cascading multiple units for summing applications. Rear-panel summing connectors and jumper cables enable seamless integration of additional units, while the Fader and Pan controls provide intuitive signal balancing. For unity gain recording, users can engage the 0 dB Fader Bypass. This functionality makes the 32Classic MS ideal for mobile setups, tracking rooms, or building larger Harrison-style mixing systems.

Balanced Insert Point and Direct Outputs

The 32Classic MS includes a balanced insert point positioned after the mic preamp and before the filters. This configuration allows the integration of external processors, such as compressors, directly into the signal chain. The unit also provides pre- and post-fader direct outputs, offering greater flexibility and control when routing signals to recording devices or other equipment.

32Classic MS as a Sidecar

By combining multiple 32Classic MS units, professionals can create a versatile “sidecar” for their existing setups. This configuration is perfect for handling drum buses, instrument groups, or additional tracking needs, delivering the unmistakable Harrison sound with enhanced warmth, depth, and tonal clarity.

Key Specifications

The microphone preamp offers a gain range of -20 dB to 70 dB, with input impedance options to match various sources. The unit supports a wide frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz with minimal distortion and a noise floor below -129 dBu. Line-level inputs provide a trim range of ±9.5 dB, and outputs maintain a maximum level of +24 dBu with a low output impedance of 30 ohms.