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Microphone preamplifier for 500 series racks, Zero Distortion Technology

ZDT Preamp for a 500 Series Rack
Earthworks Zero Distortion Technology preamplifiers were previously only available as standard rackmount units in single, two and four channel models. The new 521 ZDT single channel module will fit into a standard 500 series rack. This provides the user with ZDT pris- tine amplification at a lower cost per channel, and the ability to choose as many or as few 521 ZDT modules as they desire for their 500 series rack(s).

Zero Distortion Technology -
in amplifiers was invented by David Blackmer, the en- gineering genius of dbx and founder of Earthworks. His goal was to create an amplifier which contributed no audible noise, distortion, or color of any kind - abso- lutely pure amplification with nothing added, "Like Wire with Gain." And he did it! We proudly present the Earth- works ZDT series of preamplifiers for those who wish to hear no unwanted additives in their amplification.

Many audio engineers have expressed the need for a preamp with "pure gain" which will allow you to hear the true characteristics of a microphone and an art- ist's performance. Then, if desired add color (signal processing or special effects). David Blackmer's Zero Distortion Technology preamps have incredibly low distortion (less than 1 part per million (<0.0001%). It's like having "wire with gain," meaning pure gain with not color, no distortion, phenomenal headroom and extremely low noise. The 521 ZDT preamps are Class A and made with all discrete components in the main signal path (no ICs) for unparalleled transparency. The remarkable 521 ZDT single channel preamps will fit into a standard 500 series rack. Let "Pure Gain" start working for you, and take greater control of your sound.

Precision Measurements
Many would tell us that our claim of "Like Wire with Gain" was too bold, and may not stand up to scrutiny. So, we decided to measure the distortion of a straight piece of wire on an Audio Precision Audio Analyzer which is the industry standard for measuring distor- tion. We measured the distortion of the wire and stored it on one trace, then we measured the distortion of a ZDT preamp channel and stored it on a separate trace. Then we overlaid the two traces, which can be seen in the graphic above. The results show that both the wire and the ZDT preamp have distortion levels so low, that they were immeasurable.

Looking Deeper into the ZDT Preamp
The primary signal path, input to output is fully differ- ential and is balanced all the way through, from input to output (i.e. no internal conversion to single-ended). The gain control for the main signal path is controlled with a precision stepped gain switch from 5dB to 60dB, in 5dB steps. In addition, there is a simultaneous front panel t-r-s output with a variable gain control that al- lows 20dB of gain variation from each stepped switch setting. When you change gain from the main 5dB stepped gain control, 5dB steps may be too much or too little. The t-r-s output is controlled by a continuously variable potentiometer on the front panel to provide you the exact level you desire.
There is a 48-volt phantom power switch with an ac- companying LED indicator and a standby switch to mute the channel output when desired. A clip indica- tor shows imminent overload conditions (firing at 10% below clipping level). There is also a polarity reversal switch, in addition to a "power on" LED indicator. Fol- low that up with an impressive frequency response of 1Hz to 200KHz within + 0.5dB (almost DC to light). The Earthworks 521 ZDT Zero Distortion Technology pre- amplifiers set a new and impressive standard for 500 series preamplifiers.

Features

  • ZDT Preamplifier Module for Standard 500 Series Racks
  • Zero Distortion, Less Than One Part Per Million (>0.0001%)
  • Lowest Noise of any Preamp on the Market
  • All Discrete Components, Class A Amplification (no ICs in signal path)
  • No Electrolytic Capacitors in Signal Path
  • Greater Transparency with Minimum Signal Path and Minimum Features
  • High Output Level +30dBu
  • Full Differential (balanced) from Input to Output (i.e. no internal conversion to single-ended)
  • Black Finish
  • Specifications

  • Preamp Type: Solid State
  • Number of Channels: 1
  • Frequency Response: 2Hz to 100kHz ±0.1dB, 1Hz to 200kHz ±0.5dB
  • Impulse Response: 1.4µs
  • Distortion: XLR out: less than 1ppm (0.0001%); 1/4" out: 0.001%
  • Input Noise: 1.6nVHz½ at 20dB gain; 0.6nV/Hz½ at 60dB gain
  • EIN: -132dBV at 20dB gain; -143dBV at 60dB gain
  • Slew Rate: 22V/µs
  • Output DC Offset: ±1 mV typical, servo balanced
  • Input / Output Connector: 500 Series EDAC Edge connector
  • XLR Input Impedance: 10K phantom on, 100K phantom off
  • Front Panel Balanced Out: ¼" TRS XLR Fem. balanced transformerless (variable)
  • Dimensions: 1 500 series rack space 1.5" x 5.25" x 6"
  • Weight: 0.8 lb. (0.36kg)
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