SAAS Type III MP500 500-Series Preamp

The SAAS Type III MP500 500-Series Preamp brings the unmistakable depth, dimension, and musical character of a vintage Sphere recording console into a powerful, modern 500-Series module.

Inspired by the legendary Sphere Eclipse Type III console at Russian Recording, this fully discrete, transformer-balanced microphone preamp combines vintage-inspired circuitry with exceptional flexibility and control. Featuring custom Reichenbach transformers, dual DOA60 discrete op amps, and up to 83 dB of available gain, the MP500 delivers everything from pristine, detailed recordings to rich analog coloration and aggressive saturation. Whether you're capturing intimate vocals, adding punch to drums, recording bass through its dedicated DI, or giving tracks some serious analog attitude, the MP500 delivers classic console character with the versatility today's recording engineers demand. At the heart of the SAAS Type III MP500 is a dual-gain-stage architecture built around two proprietary DOA60 discrete operational amplifiers and newly manufactured Reichenbach 7341 input and 7393 output transformers. Manufactured using the original drawings and materials associated with vintage Sphere console transformers, these components help preserve the distinctive sonic character of the original designs. The DOA60 amplifiers are inspired by the classic Sphere SPA60 circuits, incorporating carefully selected modern components for improved stability, consistency, and performance without sacrificing the detail, imaging, and musicality that made the originals so desirable. The first amplifier controls input gain, while the second handles the output stage, allowing engineers to independently shape the sound and manage recording levels. A 12-position Grayhill input gain switch, continuously variable output control, and selectable +20 dB output boost provide extensive gain-staging flexibility. Push the input stage harder to introduce harmonic richness and saturation, then pull back the output level to maintain control over the signal reaching your audio interface or recorder. The MP500 also provides an impressive collection of professional features that make it equally comfortable in tracking, mixing, and creative sound-shaping applications. Selectable microphone input impedances allow engineers to explore different tonal responses, while a passive -20 dB input pad accommodates powerful sources without overloading the input stage. The dedicated active DI circuit takes inspiration from classic 1970s solid-state instrument amplifiers, giving bass, guitars, and other instruments a distinctive analog signal path through both DOA60 stages and the output transformer. Additional conveniences include 48V phantom power, polarity reversal, a 10-segment LED output meter, and relay-controlled switching for dependable operation. The MP500 can even be used to process previously recorded tracks and mixes through its discrete circuitry and transformers, making it much more than a microphone preamp. For engineers looking for authentic vintage console character, extensive tonal control, and a unique approach to analog recording, the SAAS Type III MP500 is a compelling addition to any professional 500-Series rack.

SAAS Type III MP500 500-Series Preamp Features

• Dual-gain-stage, transformer-balanced 500 Series microphone preamp inspired by the sound of vintage Sphere console preamps
• Newly manufactured Reichenbach 7341 microphone input transformer and 7393 output transformer, made in the same factory using the same drawings and materials as those used in vintage Sphere consoles
• Two SAAS designed proprietary DOA60 discrete op amps
• 12-position Grayhill input gain control, adjustable from 20 dB to +53 dB in 3 dB steps
• Continuously variable output level
• Switchable +20 dB output stage boost
•  83dB maximum available gain
• Selectable input impedances of 300Ω or 1.5kΩ 
• Passive -20 dB input pad
• 48V phantom power with red status LED
• Polarity reversal
• Dedicated active DI circuit with front-panel 1/4" input
• 10-segment LED output meter
• Relay switching for front panel switch functions to ensure reliability
• API 2520-compatible discrete op amp footprint, swappable for other electrically and mechanically compatible 2520-format modules
• Suitable for microphones, instruments, and line-level processing

SAAS Type III MP500 500-Series Preamp Specifications

• Front & Rear Connectors:
  • Front: Hi-Z 1/4 inch
  • Rear: Output on edge connector, mic input on edge connector
• Gain Range:
  • without pad
    • Z↓ = 30dB to 63dB
    • Z↑ = 25dB to 57dB
  • with pad
    •   Z↓ = 8dB to 40dB
    •   Z↑ = 4dB to 36dB
• Maximum Input Level:  -5 dBu (+  17dBu with pad)
• Input Impedance:
  •  Mic Z↓ = 300Ω
  •  Mic Z↑ = 1.5kΩ
  • Direct Input 60kΩ
• Output Impedance: Less than 75 Ohms, transformer balanced
• Frequency Response:
  • Z↓ = 20Hz to 26kHz = ±0.38dB
  • Z↑ = 20Hz to 26kHz = ±0.59dB
• THD+N: 0.006% (1kHz with 38dB gain to +4dBu output)
• EIN: -128dBu (unweighted, 150 Ω source, at 60dB of gain)
• Power Consumption: ± 16 Volts/DC @10mA
• Size: 1.5″ X 5.25″ X 7″ deep
• Weight: 1lb. 2.4oz.

SAAS Type III MP500 500-Series Preamp Includes

• SAAS Type III MP500 500-Series Preamp
• Manufacturer Warranty