Radial introduces the PreComp™ 500 series Combination Preamp and Compressor

Radial Engineering Ltd. has announced a new addition to the 500 series range of processing modules, the PreComp combination preamp and compressor.

The PreComp is a single wide module, designed to fit the popular 500 series “Lunchbox”. The design begins with a high performance preamp equipped with Radial’s unique Accustate gain control that simultaneously sets the output and sensitivity to maximize signal-to-noise at all levels. A full-feature compressor follows with adjustable threshold, compression ratio and make-up gain control that automatically transitions from soft-knee to hard-knee as compression increases.  A simple slow-fast switch makes it easy to set the PreComp for either percussion instruments or smoother tracks such as vocals.

Once connected to a 500 series power rack, I/O connections automatically route to the XLRs for balanced operation. When used with an 8 module Workhorse rack, connectivity increases with ¼” TRS connectors and D-Subs and the Omniport provides direct patching to the preamp or the compressor, enabling the engineer to use each processor separately.

Other features include 180° polarity reverse, a high pass, 48V phantom power for condenser mics and an IN/OUT switch that lets you quickly compare the original uncompressed signal with the processed result.

The PreComp starts shipping in May 2013 and will retail for around $400 USD.