Davy Graham uses the Buzz Audio MA2.2 Microphone Pre-Amp

The year is 2007

Deep in the heart of Oxfordshire, Davy Graham records a fantastic new album.

Davy Graham uses Charter Oak SA538 & SA538 microphones. The year is 2007 Deep in the heart of Oxfordshire, Davy Graham records a fantastic new album. Davy Graham is a living legend without any of the obligations of celebrity. He plays the guitar as a chess-player might; the seeming improbablity of certain moves to the un-enlightened make up a classical Indian defence. There is something of the aged bullfighter too, the perfectly executed turns the occasional goring but mostly the deep soaring and firing of a unique intellect and spirit. Its real and premeditated only in the moment. He is genuinely not interested in doing anything other than what he refers to as his job, pursuing certain hobbies and being anything but himself. It is perhaps this quality that Shirley Collins mis-interprets as coldness. It is very easy to mis-interpret Davy; I do it daily and I know him better than most. He is credited with starting the craze for open tunings amongst guitarists that eventually led to Nick Drake and John Martyn. Such a move might be considered un-conventional but Davy approached that from a very classical, conventional angle, how could one not and expect not to get lost? Somewhat heckled by one fan in Aberdeen last year, who suggested that Davy ought to compromise and play Anji for him, he looked out over the audience with a baleful glance and said "It wouldn't be right, she is no longer with us; she passed in Israel. Here's something from Greece though."

 

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BUZZ Audio The Resonance Equaliser Model REQ-2.2

WINNER OF THE PRESTIGIOUS PRO AUDIO REVIEW AT AES NEW YORK 2005

A high end Recording, Mixing and Mastering Equaliser featuring natural Resonance and True Class A amplifiers.

All filter networks are passive utilising real inductors (chokes) and capacitors as the reactive elements, no electronic simulation - just pure Resonance 144 different frequency settings on each channel, all switched for repeatability. All BE40 proprietary True Class A high speed 140V/uS amplifiers in the signal path.. Mastering version with Elma 24 position detented Boost/Cut controls offering +8dB and -10dB range (as shown in picture). Lower cost recording and mixing version with continuously variable Boost/Cut controls offering an extended +/-16dB range. High and Low Bands are switchable Bell or Shelf mode. In Shelf mode the Bandwidth control converts to an adjustable Shelf "slope" control. Switchable transformer Saturation that adds varying amounts of bass "colour" via low frequency harmonic distortion. Two bell shape Mid Bands with switchable 1x or 2.5x Frequency and selectable Bandwidth. Passive Bessel aligned 18dB/octave High Pass Filter with six turnover frequencies. Each band is selectable In/Out of the signal path as well as an overall System bypass.

Full specification available from :
http://www.buzzaudio.com

 

List: £ POA

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BUZZ Audio The Dual Compressor System Model DCS-2.2
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A high end Recording, Mixing and Mastering Compressor with features not found on any other compressor available today.

A new innovative approach to audio compressor design, the DCS-2.2 allows the user to combine the sound of two completely different compressor types (FET and OPTO) to achieve an endless pallette of dynamic characteristics. Controls allow for the blending of uncompressed and compressed signals or the blending of the two compressor outputs (in Parallel mode). Series mode allows for daisy chaining the two compressors, FET > OPTO or OPTO > FET. All BE40 proprietary True Class A high speed 140V/uS amplifiers in the signal path. Stereo matched mastering versions with Elma 24 position detented Threshold and Output Gain controls (as shown in picture). Lower cost recording and mixing version with continuously variable Threshold and Output Gain controls. Built in switchable transformer saturation on both channels. Assignable sidechain Tilt control that alters the sensitivity of either Compressor at high or low frequencies. Intelligent linking to another unit for stereo applications. Front panel selectable Sidechain insert points on both channels.

Full specification available from :
http://www.buzzaudio.com

 

List: £ POA

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BUZZ Audio ARC1.1 Analogue Recording Channel
The ARC1.1 is an outboard channel strip combining a mic/line/intrument preamp, equaliser, compressor and limiter in one box. It has primarily been designed for recording and processing the human voice and sports a host of features that have been inspired by suggestions from audio professionals from around the globe. The ARC includes tried and trusted elements from other Buzz Audio products plus some new innovations specifically developed for this unit. Whilst aimed at vocal recording and processing, the ARC is a useful tool for all sorts of recording and mixing applications. With all the connection and routing options available, the ARC may be used as a seperate Mic Preamp, DI Box, Equaliser and Compressor/Limiter (optionally with sidechain EQ), all at the same time.

Full specification available from :
http://www.buzzaudio.com

 

List: £1595

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BUZZ Audio MA 2.2 Dual Microphone Pre-Amp
The MA2.2 True Class A Microphone Amplifier is designed to provide the cleanest possible interface between microphones and recording channels. By utilising proprietory Class A amplifier modules, a transformerless input and attention to power supply design, the MA2.2 exhibits sonic qualities unmatched by any other unit in this price range. Furthermore, the MA2.2's ultra low noise and noise spectra provides the best possible dynamic range for digital recordings.

Design Features....
Fully descrete high-bias wide bandwidth Class A amplifiers utilising matched and selected semiconductors
Transformerless input and output with high grade polycarbonate coupling capacitors
2 stages of power supply regulation including individual discrete regulators for each stage of the 2 stage amplifier
High quality bifurcated relays for signal switching.
41 position trimmed and calibrated Gain Control
Optimised amplifiers for the Input/Output functions.
Output Mute and Hi/Lo input impedance

List: £1395

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BUZZ Audio SSA 1.1 Stereo Source Amplifier
The SSA 1.1 Stereo Source Amplifier includes 2 instrument inputs on the front panel in addition to to the 2 microphone inputs on the rear. There are independant detented gain controls for each input, with up to +65dB gain on mic inputs and +40dB gain instrument inputs, The mic inputs are equipped with a +15dB gain switch, as opposed to a -15dB pad and each channel is individually power regulated. There are balanced XLR outputs and unbalanced direct outs, bypassing the balanced output stage. Also included : 50Hz high-pass filter, phantom power, phase reverse and output mute switch. Same Class A front end design as the big brother MA 2.2.

Design Features....
Up to 65dB mic gainmakes the SSA 1.1 suitable for use with the most

List:
£895

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BUZZ Audio SOC 1.1 Compressor
The SOC 1.1 Stereo Optical Compressor is based on the Light Dependant Resistor (LDR) technology from the past (Urei LA Series), but incorporates a unique Differential Drive Side Chain (DDSC) topology to create a more adjustable and musical compression characteristic. Gain reduction is totally passive, no distortions introduced by semiconductor elements, the signal path is kept to a minimum. LDR selection and matching within a Stereo unit ensures accurate tracking compared to vintage LDR designs.

Design Features....
Big knobs, large back lit VU meters, Bourns conductive plastic pots and reliable C&K switches
Separate power supply regulators for audio/sidechain sections and for each channel.
Auto Bypass/Mute relay when power lost. Gain reduction metering that doesn't drift
New generation of opamps utilised in the audio path.

List:
£1395

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BUZZ Audio MPE 1.1 Mono Parametric Eq
Because YOU asked for it - introducing the MPE - a Mono Parametric Equaliser based on the new ARC1.1 equaliser section. If you are looking for a musical outboard equaliser to complement your Digital Audio Workstation, then look no further. The MPE offers performance and features easily exceeding that of equalisers found in most small recording consoles at a cost effective price point. Read on to find out why... Optional Sowter line input transformer which can be selected in and out of the signal path with the front panel bypass switch. Optional Sowter line output transformer can be fitted. High Pass Filter - continously variable from 25Hz to 450Hz, musical 12dB/oct filter slope. Individually selectable in/out. Low Shelf - choke (inductor) based shelving section with selectable 60Hz and 120Hz turnover points. +/-17dB cut/boost available. Selectable in/out with High Shelf section. High Shelf - selectable passive (broad) or active (tight) based shelving section. +/-17dB cut/boost available. Selectable in/out with Low Shelf. Low Mid - +/-16dB cut/boost continuosly sweepable from 30Hz to 700Hz. Variable bandwidth (Q) including a tight notch/peak setting. Individually selectable in/out. Low-High Mid - +/-16dB cut boost continuosly sweepable from 160Hz to 3.4kHz or 1.6kHz to 34kHz (x10). Variable bandwidth (Q) including a tight notch/peak setting. Individually selectable in/out. Input Gain - providing +/-15dB range. Peak LED - monitors signal levels at all critical points within the equaliser. All Bypass - 3 position switch which selects either the DC Coupled input or the Sowter Transformer input (if fitted) or hard bypasses the entire MPE. Two XLR output connectors (one carries the signal via the output transformer if fitted). Two Looping XLR input connectors

List:
£745

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BUZZ Audio MIA-1.0
The MIA-1.0 Musical Instrument Adaptor (traditionally called a Direct Box) was initially designed to compliment the MA-2.2 Microphone Amplifier, converting unbalanced instrument inputs into a balanced mic level signals. This is achieved with a simple FET input, balanced output Buffer amplifier. There are no transformers in the audio path, ground isolation is achieved by the use of a transformer in the hi-frequency power supply that converts the phantom power to the nominal 12V operating voltage. Very nifty !!

The MIA-1.0 can of course be used with any mic preamp equipped with +48V phantom power (8mA). Users can expect smoother bass performance and excellent treble reproduction without the phase shift anomalies inherent in standard transformer coupled designs.

Features
Zero feedback Class A buffer amplifier, no audio transformer. Real rubber feet - not self adhesives that drop off after a week !! Three auto selecting inputs optimized for different levels... AMP IN is for the connection of speaker level signals, eg, the main output of a bass amplifier. LO-Z IN is for the connection of a line level device such as a keyboard or sampler or CD player output. HI-Z IN is for the connection of high impedance pickups, eg, bass guitar or acoustic pickups. Three useful outputs... HI-Z OUT This is a loop output of all 3 inputs. The AMP IN signal is available on this jack at -35dB. The LO-Z IN signal is -6dB. This is very handy for "re-amping", ie, taking the speaker out of a amp and feeding it into another amplifier. BUFFER OUT Provides a buffered unbalanced version of the HI-Z OUT. BAL OUT The main output to the mic preamp and power source (+48V phantom). Ground lift to isolate input/output earths.

List:
£235

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BUZZ Audio A Rack 8+1
A-RACK 8+1 shown fitted with 8 MA1.5 modules (priced separately - see next section). The standard rack bin is 3 units high and includes the power supply regulator and monitor module on the right. Due to the high amounts of heat generated by the True Class A circuitry utilized in this design, adequate ventilation should be provided and it is suggested that 1/2U rack space is provided above and below the A-RACK if the unit will be covered with other equipment. Alternatively, the system can be supplied in a 4 unit high frame with built in 1/2 unit ventilation areas front and rear. In addition to the rack mount chassis, the A-RACK can also be supplied in an attractive 4U ventilated desk top enclosure.

List:
£1295

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BUZZ Audio MA1.5 Module (For A Rack 8+1)
The first module available for the A-RACK 8+1 is the MA-1.5 True Class A Microphone Amplifier. All circuitry is real Class A discrete transistor using the Buzz Audio BE40 module. There are no transformers in the signal path, high quality film coupling capacitors are used for DC isolation. The circuitry is very similar to the MA-2.2 with the addition of the Solo feature and a Direct Drive Balanced Output circuit (the DDBO).
There are two main advantages to the DDBO over conventional "transformer acting" electronic balanced outputs. The first is near perfect common mode performance on balanced lines ensuring accurate audio signal transmission over long cables as may be found in remote live recording situations.
The second advantage is an increase of output headroom by 6dB allowing the MA-1.5 to deliver a staggering +32dBu before the onset of clipping. The only disadvantage of the DDBO is that when driving an unbalanced load, one of the output amplifiers will be shorted to ground, which is not desirable.
To enable the MA-1.5 to work with unbalanced loads, the MODE switch converts the output to a pin 2 hot unbalanced output, which also results in 6dB less gain. The MA-1.5 provides real "straight wire with gain" performance in a modular format, and modules can be purchased as budget permits, perfect for all multi channel recording situations.
TOP Fully discrete hi-bias wide bandwidth differential Class A amplifiers. Matched and selected semiconductors. Transformerless input and output with hi-grade film coupling capacitors. 2 stages of power supply regulation. Individual discrete regulators for each stage of the 2 stage amplifier. Single Point Ground pcb layout. 41 position max trimmed GAIN control. Trimmed common mode noise rejection.
Optimized "grunty" Class A amplifiers for the input/output functions. Output Mute and Hi/Lo input impedance switches. Exceptional clarity, "straight wire with gain" performance.

List:
£645

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the elixir - 500 Series compatible preamplifier module
The elixir preamplifier module is an excellent compliment to the "fatter" sound of many modules now available in the API 500VPR Series format and has been designed to provide exceptionally low noise wide bandwidth amplification of microphone and instrument signals. The elixir will suit those who desire a recording preamplifier where just a slight amount of bass colour is added to the original signal whilst retaining full treble extension and a smooth midrange - warm, sweet, liquid - the perfect blend.
The elixir circuit design is roughly based on the now famous Buzz Audio MA-2.2 mic preamp and utilises two BE40 True Class A amplifiers in a transformeless input arrangement. Following this is the output stage comprising of two newly designed BE50 True Class A high current audio buffers that drive a Lundahl LL1517 output transformer. As can be seen from the distortion specifications, the presence of the Lundahl output transformer adds a subtle amount of harmonic at low frequencies thereby enhancing the bottom end but without sacrificing the wide bandwith needed for good clarity in the top end. The output configuration of the elixir results in a maximum output level of +34dBu before clipping, which means it can comfortably deliver clean audio into all analogue or digital recorders without overload. Gain range of the microphone input is 22dB to 70dB or -2dB to 50dB with the -20dB pad selected. More than enough for ribbon microphones. The input impedance (selected with the IN Z switch) is 4000 ohms in the H position or 1200 ohms in the L position. The instrument input on the elixir features a "bootstrapped FET" high to low impedance convertor that then feeds the elixir amplifier stages. Selection of the instrument input is automatic when a jack is inserted on the front panel input. Gain range of the instrument input is 10db less than the mic input at 12dB to 60dB. The input impedance is switchable 1,000,000 ohms or 20,000 ohms with the IN Z switch.

List:
£460

ex VAT

ESSENCE compressor
- 500 series
The essence is a True Class A Optical Compressor designed to fit the API* 500 VPR Series rack frames offering a great feature set in a compact package. The essence will find application with those seeking a musically transperant compressor for all tracking and mixing tasks, and it sounds particulary outstanding when processing voice and bass tracks. The essence - the Heart 'n' Soul of your next recording!

List:
£650

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POTION compressor
- 500 series
The potion is a True Class A FET based Compressor designed to fit the API* 500 VPR Series rack frames. The potion will suit those looking for a audio compressor with "attitude" and is particularly useful in rock, hip hop and modern music styles where a somewhat aggressive character adds to the energy of the track. Drums, electric guitars, vocals and the mix bus will all benefit from the potion's rich harmonic sound - potion - the harmonic energizer!

List:
£650

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TONIC 3 Band Eq
- 500 series
The tonic offers 3 bands of equalisation with a versatile sweep midrange section and fixed two frequency high and low bands. The tonic also has a high pass filter utilizing another real choke. The signal path of the tonic is all True Class A discrete transistor with the output balanced via a Lundahl* LL1517 high spec transformer. The tonic is designed to fit into the popular API* 500 Series modular racks and requires a rack to function.

List:
£540

ex VAT