Charisma 8 Model 9527
SPL CHARISMA 8
The Charisma 8 is a tube processor whose sophisticated circuitry enables extensive con- trol over the tube sound characteristics.
In other words, it is a tube sound instrument that doesn’t produce just the “usual tube sound”, but is also capable of effects that resemble the tape saturation of analog tape machines: the signals gain more impact and punch, so that especially in the case of per- cussive instruments it is no longer necessary to record to an analog machine. At the same time level peaks can be captured by optimally exploiting the headroom of digital recorders resulting in a significant gain in loudness at the same electrical level. The sound image becomes more transparent, and a mix pre- pared using the Charisma 8 has improved per- ception of depth.
Voices can also be very effectively proc-
essed, to make them rougher and earthier for example. In a dense mix the voices gain pen- etration and presence.
Dance/Techno producers find the Charisma a practical tool for distorting snare, bass drum or lead sounds, MIDI guitar parts finally sound reasonable, and truly impressive sounds can be created using virtually any synthesizer.
It’s that easy
The operational design of the Charisma is simple in its concept: each of the eight chan- nels has three potentiometers for controlling the drive, tube sound variation and the output level.
The Charisma 8 is used ideally while record- ing from the recorder – recording the optimised signal saves rework and takes full advantage of the digital headroom.
Specifications
Inputs & Outputs
Instrumentation amplifier, electronically balanced (differential), transformerless
Nominal input level | +6 dB |
Input impedance | 22 kOhm |
Output impedance | < 600 Ohm |
Max. input level | +24 dBu |
Reference level | variable (Drive) |
Minimum load | 600 Ohm |
Hard bypass switch |
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Measured data |
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Frequency response (40kHz = | 30 |
Common mode rejection | |
THD & N (K2 max. 35%) | 0.41% @ 1 kHz |
S/N CCIR | |
Power supply |
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Toroidal transformer | 50 VA |
Fuse | 1000 mA |
GND lift switch, voltage selection switch 115 V / 230 V | |
Dimensions |
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Standard EIA 19”/2U | 482 x 88 x 237 mm |
Weight | 4 kg |
Martin Hömberg,
Audio Professional (D)
“Of all the studio tube processors I am familiar with, the transitions from ‘clean’ through ‘saturation’ and ‘smoky’ to roughened characteristics like ‘crunch’ and ‘overdrive’ are here by far the easiest and most log- ical to control.”
Ralf Kleinermanns,
Keyboards (D)
“The wide range of process- ing effects, extending from clearly audible tube distor- tions, coupled with tube- type hard or soft knee compression, also turns the Charisma into an outstand- ing
Walter Wehrhan,
Production Partner (D)
“A warning from the Min- istry of Audio: Charisma is addictive! Signals process with Charisma get more presence, more punch, the sound image of a mix becomes more transparent; each instrument can be clearly placed.”
Sound Performance Lab: Tel. +49 216 398 340, Fax +49 216 398 3420, Mail: info@soundperformancelab.com, Internet: www.soundperformancelab.org ©2002 SPL electronics GmbH. All rights reserved, subject to change without notice, E&OE. All brands quoted are trademarks of the respective owners. (9.02)
