While we've discontinued the PR8 modification at the request of SM Pro, we are happy to offer a modification of its successor, the PR8E.
The PR8E modification includes a complete overhaul of all input and output sections. The circuit uses what's known as a differential pair for the input stage, which consists of discrete transistors. The benefit of this type of circuit is that it provides optimum noise performance when using a low-impedance source, such as a microphone. It also ads a wonderful characteristic to the sound.
We take the existing design a great deal further. The input differential stage is altered to yield roughly 3dB improvement in noise performance. The stage that follows the input handles the bulk of the gain in the circuit. Although performance is adequate, it's a little slow for our tastes. It's converted to a high-speed architecture, and the result is a real dazzler: loads of detail, presence, and articulation. As a follow-up, the output stage is adapted to deliver high current for driving any necessary cables. We absolutely love the sound of this thing on snare, vocals, and overhead. It makes a great preamp for room mic'ing, since it's extremely revealing.
What we've been surprised to find is that, once modified, the humble PR8E will stand up very well against some very expensive mic preamp designs. We think you'll find it to be more than adequate as a low-cost, high-performance addition to your studio.
Please be aware that if you will be recording extremely loud sources with this preamp, you will have to through a pad before you hit the inputs of the PR8E. Although we get this unit amazing sounding, we do not increase the headroom of the unit.
Price is $365.00
Contact us
to schedule an appointment.
Here is how it works:
We schedule an appointment for the modification and then send you an
initial invoice for 50% down payment that is due within three days.
Payment can be made by credit card or through Paypal.
When payment is received we confirm your scheduled appointment.
You ship the unit to us so that it arrives two days before the
scheduled modification.
When the modification is finished we notify you and you then pay the
remainder of the cost.
We ship you the modified unit.
Please note that there is a cancellation fee of 30% of the scheduling
deposit.
If you wish to reschedule, we require two-weeks notice, and there is a
$25 rescheduling fee.
There is a $10 a day charge for units that remain on our shop for more
than seven days.
We wish we did not have to require these fees, but unfortunately they
are necessary in order for us to keep our prices low and to meet our
scheduled commitments.
