SPL P8

8-channel discrete microphone preamplifier with DB25 output

• Eight identical discrete-component microphone preamplifiers, with no integrated circuits
• Gain from +8 to +62 dB per channel, for condenser, dynamic, and ribbon microphones
• Independent 48 V phantom power, -20 dB PAD, polarity reversal, and high-pass filter on all eight channels
• Dual DB25 line-level analog outputs: direct connection to an AD converter and integrated splitter for backup
• 8-channel AD conversion card with ADAT outputs available as an option
• 1-unit 19" rack-mount format with SPL Studio Series construction

The SPL P8 is an 8-channel microphone preamp featuring discrete technology, designed for high-quality multitrack recording sessions. Eight identically designed preamps, each with its own complete set of controls, in a single rack unit: the ideal solution for expanding the inputs of your audio interface or AD converter with a professional-grade analog front end, from drums to acoustic ensembles.

SPL Discrete-Component Microphone Preamps

All eight preamps in the P8 are built with discrete transistors rather than integrated circuits—a design choice typical of high-end preamps and the foundation of their sound quality. The sound is open and transparent: the microphone and sound source reach the converter exactly as you hear them in the room, without any coloration imposed by the circuitry.

Gain from +8 to +62 dB for any type of microphone

Each channel has its own analog gain control ranging from +8 to +62 dB. You have plenty of headroom for ribbon and low-output dynamic microphones, but also the low sensitivity needed for large-diaphragm condenser microphones placed close to loud sources. A three-color LED per channel indicates signal presence and approaching saturation.

Phantom power, PAD, polarity, and filter on each channel

The eight channels each offer 48 V phantom power for condenser microphones, a -20 dB PAD for percussion, brass instruments, and high-volume amplifiers; 180° polarity reversal to correct phase issues in multi-microphone drum setups; and a 6 dB/octave high-pass filter that reduces impact noise and unwanted low frequencies below 80 Hz.

DB25 Outputs for Multitrack Recording and Backup

In the analog version, the P8 features two DB25 output connectors, both carrying line-level signals from preamps 1 through 8. Connect the first output directly to the DB25 input of your multichannel AD converter and the second, in parallel, to a second recording system: during live sessions or important recordings, you’ll have a complete backup without needing an external splitter.

Neutrik XLR Microphone Inputs

The eight microphone inputs on the rear panel use Neutrik XLR connectors with gold-plated contacts and electronically balanced signal transmission.

Optional 8-Channel AD Converter with ADAT Outputs

The P8 can be configured with an optional 8-channel AD conversion card, based on the AKM AK5538 chip and supporting sampling rates up to 192 kHz. The card replaces the second DB25 output with two optical ADAT outputs, allowing you to connect the P8 directly to the ADAT inputs of your audio interface and expand its microphone inputs. The Word Clock section includes an input, an output, and a termination switch, while a dedicated button selects the sampling rate and clock source; a service USB port is reserved for firmware updates.

SPL Studio 1U rack-mount construction

4 mm black anodized aluminum front panel, machined aluminum knobs, and powder-coated steel chassis. Many key components are mounted using through-hole technology, allowing them to be selected based on sound quality, and the internal linear power supply with a shielded toroidal transformer ensures stability and a low noise floor.

SPL P8 Technical Specifications

• Type: 8-channel microphone preamplifier with discrete circuitry
• Inputs: 8 x balanced Neutrik XLR microphone inputs with gold-plated contacts
• Outputs: 2 x balanced DB25 line-level outputs (channels 1–8 in parallel)
• Gain: +8 to +62 dB
• Per-channel functions: 48 V phantom power, -20 dB PAD, polarity reversal, 6 dB/octave high-pass filter at 80 Hz
• Maximum input level (Mic): 13.5 dBu
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ
• Output impedance: 75 Ω
• Frequency response: 15 Hz – 200 kHz
• Equivalent Input Noise (EIN): -124 dBu
• Noise (A-weighted, 150 Ω): -94 dBu at 30 dB, -66 dBu at 62 dB
• Common-mode rejection (1 kHz): < 78 dB
• THD+N (1 kHz): 0.003% at 30 dB, 0.022% at maximum gain
• Signal indicators: green -25 dBu, yellow 0 dBu, red +19 dBu (without AD converter) or -3 dBFS / +12 dBu (with AD converter)
• AD converter option: 8 channels, AKM AK5538 chip, up to 192 kHz, 2 x optical ADAT outputs, terminated Word Clock in/out, USB service port
• Audio electronics operating voltage: ±18 V
• Power supply: internal linear power supply with shielded toroidal transformer
• Mains voltage (selectable): 230 V AC / 50 Hz; 115 V AC / 60 Hz
• Fuses: T 315 mA (230 V), T 630 mA (115 V)
• Power consumption: max 27 VA
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 482 x 44 x 237 mm (19" rack, 1U)
• Weight: 4.15 kg
• Shipping weight: 5.4 kg