Q. Why is the output on the MA-2.2 unbalanced ?
A. The MA-2.2 was designed to be as transparent as possible and therefore does not include the extra amplifier stage needed to generate an active balanced output. TOP


Q. Will I have problems hooking up the unbalanced output to other devices ?
A. So long as you treat the MA-2.2 output as if it were a Pin 2 HOT balanced, you should have no problems. A rear panel "ground hard/soft" switch is fitted to eliminate any ground loop problems, see the Users Manual for more detail on this. TOP


Q. Can the output of the MA-2.2 be supplied balanced ?
A. Yes, we have an optional Sowter transformer kit which can be supplied fitted from the factory (ask your dealer) or it can be retrofitted with some soldering on the output connectors required. TOP


Q. What effect do the Sowter transformers have on the sound ?
A. Feedback from users suggests the transformer adds a bit more "weight" to the sound of the MA-2.2, a slight "rounding" if you like, but without loosing the top end clarity. The sound could be described as a bit more "vintage", like the good ole Class A transformer coupled preamp designs from the past. TOP


Q. Do I still have access to the direct output when the transformers are fitted ?
A. Yes, the transformer balanced output is accessed on the XLR, the direct unbalanced output is available on the 1/4" TRS jack socket, so you have a choice of sounds to use. A worthwhile addition to the unit. TOP


Q. Will the MA-2.2 suit my Ribbon microphones ?
A. Yes, the MA-2.2 has up to 65dB of gain and is quiet enough to work with ribbon mics in most cases. The low output level of some ribbons is a challenge for all mic preamps ! TOP


Q. What if I need more gain than the MA-2.2 offers ?
A. A simple way to get more level into your audio recorder is to pass the output through a unit that has a make up gain control. This could be a compressor (with the gain reduction disabled) or a good quality mixer. In this way, the noise performance of the MA-2.2 will not be affected. TOP


Q. What is the HI/LO Input Impedance switch for ?
A. This switch changes the load impedance that the microphone "sees" HI = 3k ohms, LO = 1k2 ohms. With some microphones, the change in sound can be quite noticeable, with other mics remaining unaffected by the impedance setting. It has been provided as another "sound" option. TOP


Q. Which HI/LO Impedance setting should I use ?
A. There is no right or wrong setting of the Impedance switch. The setting you use should be based on the sound you prefer. In general however, ribbon mics prefer a LO setting. Some older tube mics may also prefer this setting. TOP


Q. Does the 20dB input PAD effect the sound of the MA-2.2 ?
A. No. We have gone to alot of trouble designing the PAD in the MA2.2. Unlike transformer coupled input preamplifiers, the MA-2.2 presents a non-reactive "resistive" load to the microphone, the PAD components form part of this network and are always in circuit even with the PAD out. For this reason, we believe using the PAD does not affect the sound of the MA-2.2 nor the microphone connected to it. TOP


Q. Should I leave the MA-2.2 powered all the time ?
A. We recommend that the MA-2.2 is kept warm whilst in regular use. The circuitry reaches best performance after a warm up period of at least 30 mins. TOP


Q. Can I plug instruments into the MA-2.2 input ?
A. No not really. We do not recommend connecting an unbalanced source to the MA2.2 input. The input impedance is too low for pickups and even keyboards. A perfect interface for these devices is the MIA-1.0 Musicial Instrument Adaptor, especially designed to work with the MA-2.2. TOP


Q. What is the advantage of a fast Slew Rate ?
A. In order to maintain audio signal transients, an amplifier must be fast enough to reproduce them without distortion. Transient Intermodulation Distortion (TID) is a specification often overlooked in audio circuit design. With the advent of digital recording devices, the analog input levels required for Full Scale Deflection (0dBFS), can be in the order of +20dBu so it is important that the driving device is capable of reproducing transients at this elevated level. The MA-2.2 design and slew rate of 140V/uS ensures low levels of TID right up to +24dBu. TOP