Recording, Mixing and Mastering
Published on 20/10/2025
In the world of professional audio, the 500 Series format continues to be a benchmark for those seeking versatility and modularity in their recording or mix chain. But how important is the chassis that houses these modules? Often underestimated, the chassis affects sound quality, operational stability, and even the longevity of your outboards. And that's where Quagliardi Pro Audio, an Italian brand that is redefining standards with its Powergrid chassis, comes in.
First of all, the power supply. A cheap lunchbox often uses noisy switching power supplies with limited capacity and little protection between slots. The result? Unwanted modulation, interference, performance drop. A good chassis, on the other hand, guarantees:
The Powergrid 10 delivers up to 2000 mA per rail, with a professional-quality external switching power supply. The more compact Powergrid 2 offers 300 mA per rail with a linear power supply, ideal for those looking for quiet operation.
Many competing lunchboxes offer less than half the current, with internal power supplies prone to overheating and interference. In scenarios with starved modules (tube preamps, stereo compressors, etc.), this difference can be heard most definitely.
Powergrids are designed with optimized layouts to minimize interference and noise between slots. Generic lunchboxes, on the other hand, often share feed and ground paths, increasing the risk of ground loops and cross-talk.
The Powergrid 10 includes:
This allows internal processing chains, perfect for stereo setups or channel strips. Features absent in most entry-level lunchboxes.
Unlike many lunchboxes that offer only D-Sub (DB25) connectors for module outputs and inputs, Quagliardi's Powergrids also include rear XLR connections, making them extremely versatile and compatible with more setups, without the need for additional breakout cables or patchbays.
Reinforced aluminum chassis, professionally finished panels, and select components-Quagliardi builds chassis designed to last, whether in the studio or on tour.
Compact, rugged and quiet. With two slots and external linear power supply, it's perfect for the touring engineer, for those who just want a preamp + EQ to take to the studio, or for small mastering setups.
An interesting alternative to the Powergrid 2, with horizontal layout and "smart" chassis features: includes independent ground lift for each slot and stereo link routing, ideal for modules designed for dual mono or stereo processing. The perfect solution for those who want high-level performance in a compact desktop chassis.
The ultimate choice for professional studios. With 10 slots, it is ready to accommodate any type of module. Rear connections (XLR + DB25), internal feed and protections for each slot make it a high-end chassis.
Because a 500 Series module, no matter how expensive or refined, is completely dependent on the quality of the power supply and chassis that houses it. A noisy, unstable, or poorly protected chassis can defeat the potential of your outboard.
Quagliardi Pro Audio's Powergrids are not just enclosures: they are an upgrade for your sound. More power, less noise, more control. If you really want to hear the difference in your 500 Series modules, it's time to upgrade to a true professional chassis.
👉 Check out all the Quagliardi Pro Audio products available on our website!
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