The SPL P8 is a professional-grade eight-channel microphone preamplifier featuring discrete transistor circuitry, individually switchable phantom power, PAD switches, phase inversion, high-pass filters, balanced XLR inputs, and an optional ADAT converter for seamless integration with digital audio interfaces, delivering exceptional sound quality for high-end multi-channel recording sessions.

Preamplifier Design

The P8 boasts eight identically designed microphone preamplifiers, each constructed with a discrete circuit design using individual transistors rather than integrated circuits. This approach is synonymous with high-end audio equipment, ensuring an open and transparent sound. These preamplifiers are meticulously tuned to capture the finest details of any audio source, providing unparalleled clarity and precision.

Mic Gain Control

Each preamplifier includes an analogue gain control that allows for precise adjustment of amplification levels. The gain range spans from +8 dB to +62 dB, accommodating even the most challenging microphones and allowing them to perform at their best. This ensures the flexibility needed to handle a wide variety of recording situations, from subtle vocals to dynamic instrumentation.

Phantom Power (48V)

Condenser microphones require a stable power source, which the P8 provides through individually switchable 48V phantom power for each channel. This feature guarantees compatibility with a wide range of professional microphones, ensuring consistent performance across all recording scenarios.

PAD Switch for High-Level Sources

A PAD switch in each preamplifier section attenuates the microphone input signal by 20 dB. This capability is invaluable when recording high-level sources, such as percussion or brass instruments, preventing distortion and maintaining audio integrity during even the loudest performances.

Phase Inversion

The P8 includes a phase inversion function for each channel, allowing users to reverse the polarity of a signal by 180°. This is particularly useful for resolving phase issues when using multiple microphones, ensuring phase coherence and optimised audio quality.

High-Pass Filter (HPF)

Each preamplifier incorporates a switchable high-pass filter, cutting frequencies below 80 Hz at a slope of 6 dB per octave. This feature reduces subsonic noise, such as handling or environmental rumble, providing a cleaner recording and minimising unwanted low-frequency interference.

Microphone Inputs and Line Outputs

The P8 is equipped with eight Neutrik XLR microphone inputs, featuring gold-plated contacts for optimal signal transmission and durability. The electronically balanced inputs operate at a nominal level of 0 dBu. On the output side, the analogue version includes two DB25 sockets, allowing users to route preamplifier signals to multi-channel AD converters or secondary recording devices, eliminating the need for external signal splitters during critical sessions.

Build Quality and Design

The P8 is designed with longevity and aesthetics in mind. Its 4 mm thick, black anodised aluminium front panel and solid aluminium knobs exude professional craftsmanship. The housing, constructed from high-quality steel and finished with elegant black powder coating, ensures durability. Inside, through-hole technology enables the use of premium components, further enhancing the P8’s audio performance.

Manufacturing Excellence

SPL designs and manufactures all its devices in-house at its facility in Niederkrüchten, Germany. This ensures strict quality control and adherence to the highest standards. The P8 is engineered with both technical precision and aural excellence in mind, combining cutting-edge design with expert craftsmanship.

Specifications

The P8 offers impressive technical specifications: a maximum input of 13.5 dBu, an input impedance of 10 kΩ, and an output impedance of 75 Ω. Its frequency range extends from 15 Hz to 200 kHz, with an extremely low equivalent input noise of -124 dBu and a THD+N of just 0.003% at 39 dB gain. These specifications highlight the P8’s ability to handle demanding recording scenarios with exceptional fidelity.

The SPL P8 sets a new benchmark for professional preamplifiers, blending cutting-edge technology, meticulous engineering, and premium materials to deliver a tool that meets the demands of high-quality multi-channel audio recording.