User Guide

passive elements. This attention to detail partially elucidates the quality found in the
Microphone Preamplifier / Parametric Equalizer. These component choices, coupled
with superior design techniques and a proclivity towards innovation, combine to make
the Model 2032 a most powerful, flexible, and transparent single channel processor.
Another feature that distinguishes the Model 2032 is its inherent dynamic range.
Naturally, this means that the preamplifier and filter sections maintain low-noise, high-
headroom, transparent operation under all signal conditions, at any control setting. In
the equalizer section, this extended dynamic range allows for the addition of 15 dB of
gain in multiple frequency bands simultaneously without even a hint of distortion or loss
of detail and authority. This amazing accuracy is due in large part to the GML
propensity to design all audio circuits from discrete components. Discrete designs,
when executed properly, help to preserve not only sonic integrity and musicality, but
also to maintain the widest dynamic range through the entire signal path, thus
eliminating many sonic compromises and limitations. Not only do these discrete
topologies--and the GML 9202 discrete opamp in particular--sound better than their
integrated counterparts, they also offer the ability to design for higher signal levels
internally, while also optimizing dynamic range by providing a low noise floor.
An additional benefit of the discrete circuit topology used in the Model 2032 is increased
bandwidth. Not only does this significant extension--of both high and low frequencies--
provide for more detail and realism; it also ensures a greater degree of linearity in the
traditional audio spectrum (20 Hz to 20 kHz) by locating bandwidth poles superceding
these commonly-accepted limits. Indeed, the frequency response of the Model 2032 is
well within +/- 0.1 dB from below 10 Hz to well above 80 kHz, while the +/- 3.0 dB
response exceeds the ability of most audio test apparatus to measure.
Compactness of design affords the Model 2032 distinct advantages, both from a design
standpoint and a user perspective. Originally conceived as a project to provide GML
processing in an eminently portable form factor for remote recording and non-fixed
installations, the Model 2032 bundles a no-compromise preamplifier, filter, and
parametric equalizer into a single rack space chassis. Packing an internal power
supply--thus obviating the need to transport bulky external supplies--adds to the
portability, making it no hassle to setup a rack full of 2032’s. From a design viewpoint,
locating all processing blocks on one motherboard and taking full advantage of surface-
mount technology yields superior reliability and uniformity, while controlling expenses.
All internal signal interconnects are eliminated, leaving only hard-wired audio in/out
connectors and high-quality relays in the signal path. No hand wiring of audio signal
paths is required, thus further reducing cost and improving reliability.