The Hazelrigg Industries DVA is a high-performance hybrid 500-series microphone preamplifier based on the renowned Hazelrigg Industries VLC and D.W. Fearn VT-2, featuring a 6072a vacuum tube input stage, input and output transformers, and a solid-state signal path for make-up gain.
Design and Capabilities
The DVA combines the warmth and harmonic richness of vintage vacuum tube technology with the precision and reliability of modern solid-state circuits, making it a versatile tool for professional audio recording. Its input circuitry mirrors the VLC/VT-2 design, using a 6072a vacuum tube alongside transformers in both the input and output stages to enhance audio quality and maintain signal integrity. The solid-state path provides low-distortion, high-output make-up gain, designed to fit within the power and size constraints of the 500 series format. With a total gain of up to 60dB, the DVA handles a wide range of recording needs.
Detailed Breakdown of Key Features and Functions
The DVA features a 6072a vacuum tube input stage, delivering the warm, harmonically rich sound typical of vintage tube preamps. Solid-state makeup gain ensures minimal distortion and high output while keeping the module compact and efficient. Transformers on both the input and output stages provide the classic transformer colouration that is highly valued in professional audio engineering. The unit offers approximately 60dB of total gain, allowing flexibility across different recording setups.
The DVA includes a -20dB input pad to prevent overloading, particularly with high-output microphones. It also features polarity inversion for resolving phase issues during recording and a high-pass filter to remove low-frequency noise, which is especially useful for vocals and other instruments requiring clarity. A convenient front-panel microphone input provides easy access, while the gain control allows precise adjustment of the recording level to shape the desired sound. Output levels can be monitored with an indicator LED, and the +48V phantom power is displayed through its LED. The DVA’s 1/4" direct input (DI) automatically switches from microphone to DI when a 1/4" TS cable is inserted, making it suitable for direct instrument recording.
Maximum Performance in the Studio
For high-output condenser microphones, engage the -20dB input pad or use the pad on the microphone (if available) to prevent overloading the input transformer. For users seeking saturation effects, try engaging the -20dB pad and sending an attenuated signal to the DVA, adjusting the gain to fine-tune both the tone and output for creative sound shaping.