SPL Volume 8 Multi Channel Volume Controller

Maximum input & output gain

21 dBu

Input impedance

22 kΩ

Output impedance

100 Ω

Frequency range (-3 dB)

10 Hz – 100 kHz

THD + N (10 Hz – 22 kHz, 15 dBu)

-100 dBu

Noise (A-weighted)

-102 dBu

Crosstalk (1 kHz)

80 dB

Common mode rejection (1 kHz)

60 dB

Dynamic range

123 dB

Mains voltage (selectable)

230 V AC / 50; 115 V AC / 60 Hz

weight

3.75 lbs

SPL Volume 8

SPL Volume8 Multi-Channel Volume Controller is a simple volume control that serves as a low-cost alternative to SPL’s full-featured VC devices. With fewer functions, this volume control unit focuses entirely on precision level control.

The Volume2 variant is designed for stereo applications, whilst the Volume8 can handle up to eight channels. Both devices utilize active circuitry to overcome the inherent limitations of passive circuitry, which cause impedance fluctuations and, consequently, poor frequency response linearity.

Good Quality Controller

The majority of D/A converters and sound cards lack analog level monitoring control, necessitating the use of variable signal levels at converter outputs. The outcome is a reduced bit rate in the monitoring signal, which results in a corresponding reduction in audio quality. So, Volume 8 allows the DAW user to listen to the sounds in the DAW as they are, with no signal degradation, using an analog-based monitor playback device.

Multichannel Playback of SPL Volume8

Another use is the development of a direct multi-channel playback chain, with the Volume8 sandwiched between the playback machine and either a power amplifier and speakers or simply active speaker systems. In these circumstances, the playback machine must have analog outputs. This minimizes financial and electronic efforts by taking the most direct playback channel feasible.

Converters in SPL Volume8

Common AV receivers have VCA and DAC components, which tend to generate more distortions, or the signal is routed via additional AD/DA converters for volume control. Thus, particularly with SACD or DVD-A sources, only high-quality analog, direct control of the source output enables uninterrupted playing of the original material.

Circuitry of SPL Volume8

The Volume8 is constructed entirely of analog circuitry, including a custom-designed eight-ganged potentiometer that pays close attention to every gain level. It has a large, 1.78-inch diameter graded, aluminum-clad potentiometer for more precise setting positioning, an illuminated passive mute switch from ALPS, and relay switching for all channels. Input and output are via DB-25 connectors (to multicore XLR or 1/4-inch TRS), and power is supplied by a toroidal transformer. The smaller format housing enables for flexible desktop arrangement near or below a computer display, and it fits where other, bigger format monitoring devices may not.

Features of SPL Volume8

 A larger format volume potentiometer allows for smoother and more accurate adjustments.

 Illuminated passive mute switch.

Balancing stages use common-mode rejection to reduce interference and disruption in the signal stream.

The mute switch ensures quick response times for protecting noisy speakers or ears.

Analog summing systems without monitoring can be cost-effectively improved.