Available in three models, MIC500-TL, -TO and -TT, the Yellow MIC500's high quality electronics are contained within a totally shielded metal enclosure, while an anodized aluminium front panel provides intuitive access to its controls. These include a 12-step rotary switch for adjusting input sensitivity (in 3dB increments), plus an extra gain control for use in weak signal conditions or when connecting low output sources such as ribbon mics. A full 10-segment VU meter with peak hold provides highly accurate signal monitoring. A two-position phase reverse switch and phantom power switch (+48V) are also included.
Designed to offer the best possible audio quality, the Yellow MIC500 has a fully balanced signal path with no capacitor over the entire path (except for the TT model). Only discrete electronics are used on the signal circuitry. Power supply rails with active filter are designed to improve Power Supply Rejection Ratio (PSSR). All models include a low-noise matched transistor array from THAT Corporation. The TO and TT models offer a high-quality output only (TO) or input/output (TT) audio transformer from Lundhal. No Negative Feedback (NFB) is applied for faster attack and improved slew rate.
The Yellow MIC500 simply slots into an available space in the Lunchbox rack and is secured to the chassis using supplied screws. The preamp is ready for instant use on power-up.
Commenting on the company's expansion into the pro audio market, Schertler founder and CEO Stephan Schertler explains, "For several years, Schertler has had a pro audio soul within the MI business, as we have worked on achieving the highest levels of accuracy in the reproduction of acoustic instrument sound. Some of the sophisticated technologies already developed in house have formed a basis for helping us expand into this new market sector. The Yellow MIC500, which improves on the technology originally implemented in our Yellow Single and Yellow Blender preamps, hopefully represents the start of many exciting products to come."
(Jim Evans)
