Radial Twin Servo 500 Series Mic Preamp
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• Twin-servo topology eliminates capacitors in the signal path
• Virtually zero phase shift or bandwidth limitation
• Oversized Jensen transformers for maximum headroom
The Radial Jensen Twin-Servo & 500 series preamplifier is an updated version of what may well be the most spectacular preamp ever made.
Originally developed by industry icon Deane Jensen in 1988, the Twin-Servo 500 is an adaptation that fits the popular 500 series format. The design begins with the legendary performance of two 100% discrete 990 op-amps cascaded in tandem to deliver 60dB of gain with less than 1/10th the distortion and twice the bandwidth of a single stage design. This maximizes the gain-margin so that no matter what the input, the lowest possible distortion will be realized. This also reduces noise at mid and low levels, a critical advantage for those that record with a wide dynamic range. In order to minimize phase distortion and retain the delicate balance of fundamentals with harmonics, all capacitors have been removed from the audio signal path and replaced by two DC servo feedback circuits. This not only reduces low-frequency noise, but also eliminates the ugly distortions associated with electrolytic capacitors that are especially degrading to low-level microphone signals when used to block phantom power in transformerless designs. To deliver the widest possible bandwidth, Jensen transformers are placed at both the input and output producing a frequency response that extends from 0.2Hz to 150kHz. The transformers further benefit with unmatched common-mode noise rejection from offending devices such as power supplies, light dimmers and motors that may be connected to the same power service.
Features include a convenient front-panel Neutrik combo connector with choice of XLR and inputs, a dual-gang potentiometer for level adjustment along with a 10 segment LED meter for signal management. This is supplemented with a 180 polarity reverse switch that toggles the absolute phase, a gentle high-pass filter to eliminate excessive resonance, a -15dB pad to prevent overload, and a 48V phantom power activation switch.
The Jensen Twin-Servo... likely the finest microphone amplifier ever made.
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A warranty can be a very important factor when making a buying decision. Because repairs can be very expensive in terms of parts and labour costs, manufacturers usually only provide one year limited warranties that generally only cover items that malfunction due to a manufacturer’s defect. With an important purchase such as a musical
instrument or piece of studio gear, however, many people want to have the peace of mind in knowing that their investment will be protected should the product no longer be performing at 100%.
Because of this, Long & McQuade provides our customers with a FREE one-year Performance Warranty on most of our products. The Long & McQuade Performance Warranty supplements the manufacturer’s warranty to ensure that our customers receive complete “no hassle” warranty coverage within their first year.
How does the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty differ from most manufacturers' warranties?
- Performance Guarantee: Normal wear and tear is covered, so your product will be performing as well as the day you purchased it for the entire duration of the coverage. Band and Orchestral Performance Warranty does not include replacing pads or cleaning for woodwind instruments, unless deemed necessary by our repair staff. Ultrasonic cleaning for brass instruments will be provided if deemed necessary by our repair staff, but is not routinely offered under the Performance Warranty.
- Product Replacement: If your product cannot be fixed or costs too much to fix, we will replace it with the equivalent model for no additional charge. If this is not possible, a full refund will be provided.
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Long & McQuade reserves the right to restrict the purchase of additional years of Performance Warranty. Used products come with a 3-month Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Some products (i.e. computers, software, cymbals and other items) are covered only by the manufacturer‘s warranty. Consumables (i.e. strings, reeds, drum sticks, batteries, tubes, cross faders) are excluded as they are designed to be replaced. Cosmetic Damage, Accidental Damage, or problems caused by Humidity or Temperature Issues are not covered. Speakers damaged by overpowering are generally not covered. Our coverage does not provide compensation for loss of use. As of June 2018 the Performance Warranty is no longer transferable. The warranty is only valid in Canada.
Purchasing additional years of coverage
Some manufacturers provide warranties for longer than 1 year; however, these are usually limited warranties that do not provide the same coverage as the Long & McQuade Performance Warranty. Customers interested in more complete and convenient (but not necessarily longer) coverage are still able to purchase additional years of the Performance Warranty.
If you are interested in receiving this coverage for longer than one year, you have the option of purchasing additional years of the Performance Warranty. The pricing is as follows:
- NEW products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- USED products: Starting at 4% of the current new selling price to increase the warranty from 3 months to 1 year. Starting at 4% for each additional year.
- GUITARS: 4% of the current new selling price to double the warranty from 1 year to 2 years. 4% for each additional year. $45 maximum. An additional free setup is not included with additional purchased years of Performance Warranty.
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| Product | SKU | Qty |
|---|---|---|
| Twin Servo 500 Series Mic Preamp | 478208 |
