The Normaphone MXPre LC1 is a low noise, low distortion preamp to be used in the Sony MXP 3000 series console. It is built around the Lundahl 1538XL transformer, features a low distortion fet op amp gain stage, DC servo, and output amp capable of driving 600Ω loads with ease.
I started this project because I’m a big fan of the simplicity and elegance inherent to transformer coupled preamps. I also needed a preamp that could handle higher incoming levels.
The Lundahl 1538XL transformer is a wonderful transformer. It’s only slightly more colored than the Jensen transformer used in my other favorite preamp built for this console, John Hardy’s MPC3000.
If you are interested, they are $425 apiece plus tax (10.25%) and shipping, with a price break for higher quantities.
For ordering and more info, feel free to email me.
Here is a review of it in Tape Op Magazine
Functional Features:
16 position gain switch 3dB per posion, ranging from +20 to +65dB gain, DC servo
20dB pad
Phantom Power Switch w/dim blue led indicator
Gold plated switches in audio path for long term reliability
Preliminary Technical Specs:
Input Impedance – 1400Ω
Output Impedance – 25Ω
Maximum Gain – 65dB
Maximum Output Level – 23dBu w/ 10kΩ Load,
22dBu w/ 600Ω Load
E.I.N. (150Ω Source,
non-weighted) – -127dB @ 41dB Gain
THD+N (1kHz) – %0.0015 (10kΩ load, 23dBu out)
Deviation From Linear Phase = < .5º (BW 10-20kHz) Power Consumption ≤ 20mA (10mA per 18v rail)