User Manual
6
RackPack 500
Introduction
RackPack 500
The RackPack 500 system allows you to set up a very compact, customized analog rack on
only 3 U rack space – equipped with both SPL and API 500 compatible modules.
SPL RackPack modules
The Transient Designer opens a new dimension in dynamic processing with its unique
level-independent signal processing. Imitated especially by several software applications,
the original Transient Designer remains the state-of-the-art transient modeler.
The DynaMaxx compressor is incomparably musical and easy to handle. Thanks to its signal-
dependent automation it is the perfect “set’n’forget” compressor for demanding studio and
live applications.
Just as efcient and advanced in quality is SPL’s DeEsser. It has been the rst device of its
kind to use phase cancellation as a means to reduce sibilants. Much more unobtrusive than
the common frequency-based compression, the SPL DeEsser has proven it’s technological
prominence all over the world.
Further highlights are the two preamp modules Preference Mic Pre and Premium Mic Pre. As
an alternative to our tube preamps they are based upon the proven design of our Atmos®
multi-channel recording system. The Premium Mic Pre provides the same triple stage design
with transformer in- and outputs like the Atmos® system, thus ensures the same reference-
class results. The Preference Mic Pre offers a superior price/performance ratio to meet the
highest demands in all areas of miking, and while a continuous preamp quality is of immea-
surable value especially with multichannel recordings, it is impressively economical as well
now with the Preference Mic Pre module.
Further modules complete the RackPack system that includes the whole range of analogue
peripheral equipment and allows for perfect integration into any live and studio environment:
From the passive EQ modules, which are specialized to certain instrument groups, through to
the world-class tube effects of the TwinTube, the RackPack system builds a frame to cover
the whole set of SPL’s expertise in analog signal processing technology.
Freedom as a matter of principle
Whether you need an eight channel preamp, an effects rack or individual channel strips: The
RackPack 500 system offers the maximum freedom to compose customized setups for vary-
ing challenges in any live or studio environment.
Internally we have purposely dispensed with a bus system for connections to and between
modules. Instead each SPL or API 500 compatible module provides balanced XLR in- and
outputs, so free routing between modules is ensured. Furthermore each module can also be
integrated into any studio- or live- environment just like a stand-alone device. And since two
outputs are available simultaneously on each SPL module, you can route from any module
additionally while it is connected already to another module (or elsewhere). If you have for
example built a RackPack 500 as a channel strip, you can still pick up a signal from any SPL
stage.