SPL P8 + ADC8

The SPL P8 is an eight-channel discrete microphone preamplifier from the German maker SPL, here fitted with the ADC8 option for eight channels of analog-to-digital conversion over ADAT. It's a simple way to add eight clean, high-quality mic inputs to an audio interface, a digital console or a recorder.

Each channel offers 8 to 62 dB of gain, phantom power, a 20 dB pad and a high-pass filter, so it handles quiet ribbons and condensers as well as loud drums and guitar amps. The sound is open and detailed, with plenty of headroom, which suits multitrack band recording, drum miking, orchestral and choir sessions, and location recording of music.

With the ADC8 installed, all eight channels leave the P8 as digital audio on two ADAT optical outputs, at up to 192 kHz, and BNC word clock connectors keep it locked to the rest of your system. An analog DB-25 output remains available for sending the preamps to another converter or console. Rent it in Montréal to expand your interface for a live recording or a big studio session.

Technical information

• Channels: 8 mic preamps
• Gain: 8 to 62 dB
• Per channel: 48 V phantom, 20 dB pad, high-pass filter
• Inputs: 8 XLR
• Analog output: DB-25
• Digital output: 2 ADAT optical, up to 192 kHz
• Sync: Word clock in and out, BNC

Replacement value: $2799 USD + taxes or market value