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Author Topic: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2  (Read 142033 times)

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Offline spyder9

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #60 on: February 29, 2012, 01:32:33 PM »
new owner of an older beat up box. Yet to run because I have too many preamps currently. Hope to run at Wilco in May unless something else pops up, it usually does.

too many preamps? I'm looking for a budget pre, any you want to sell?

none are very budget friendly. oade m148, aerco mp2, neve portico 5012 and the pre in the v3.

You need to go outside to the driveway and hose yourself off.  You're filthy!   ;D   

Offline ScoobieKW

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #61 on: February 29, 2012, 04:03:31 PM »
new owner of an older beat up box. Yet to run because I have too many preamps currently. Hope to run at Wilco in May unless something else pops up, it usually does.

too many preamps? I'm looking for a budget pre, any you want to sell?

none are very budget friendly. oade m148, aerco mp2, neve portico 5012 and the pre in the v3.

Well they could be budget friendly, if you were in a generous mood.

Just sayin'. ;D

Will likely end up with a Tinybox 2.0 or a custom Greedtone Pre. (He's got a design that he's been considering that would work well battery)
Busman BSC1, AT853 (O,C),KAM i2 Chuck Mod (C), Nak 300 (C),
M10, UA-5, US-1800, Presonus Firepod

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Offline twoodruff

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #62 on: February 29, 2012, 04:47:58 PM »
new owner of an older beat up box. Yet to run because I have too many preamps currently. Hope to run at Wilco in May unless something else pops up, it usually does.

too many preamps? I'm looking for a budget pre, any you want to sell?

none are very budget friendly. oade m148, aerco mp2, neve portico 5012 and the pre in the v3.

Well they could be budget friendly, if you were in a generous mood.

Just sayin'. ;D

Will likely end up with a Tinybox 2.0 or a custom Greedtone Pre. (He's got a design that he's been considering that would work well battery)

 ;)
No Mics
Clamps
Cables
No Preamp
Recorders

Offline Colin Liston

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #63 on: February 29, 2012, 06:19:04 PM »
For someone who just got back in the game, that's a lot of pres!
Occasionally....music mics record

Offline F.O.Bean

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #64 on: March 01, 2012, 12:33:11 AM »
For someone who just got back in the game, that's a lot of pres!

SLUT!
Schoeps MK 4V & MK 41V ->
Schoeps 250|0 KCY's (x2) ->
Naiant +60v|Low Noise PFA's (x2) ->
DarkTrain Right Angle Stubby XLR's (x3) ->
Sound Devices MixPre-6 & MixPre-3

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Offline aaronji

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #65 on: March 01, 2012, 07:34:46 AM »
I realize it depends on mics, but what is the average run times with the rechargeable batteries? also how long does it take to recharge the batteries.

I e-mailed Jerry to ask some battery related questions.  I know those lithium polymers are pretty picky about charging and discharging (and, potentially, spectacularly), so I inquired about that...He said that the charger contains a microprocessor subsystem which carefully controls the charging process (no real surprise there, I think) and that he builds a circuit into the MP-2 that disconnects the batteries when they drop to 3.1 V/cell.   He also said that charging takes about two hours...

As for run-time, he said that he has never really looked at run-time as a function of current draw, but that he gets more than 8 hours running a pair of AKG C451s (I am not sure what their current draw is at 48V or even to which 451 model he is referring)...

Jerry told me the current wait is 1mo, but we shall see  >:D

He told me about three weeks (that was about three weeks ago); of course, my order lenghtens the queue! ;)  He said he hopes to ship next week, which is close enough for me...


Offline spyder9

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #66 on: March 01, 2012, 09:54:47 AM »
Jerry has mine.  It arrived 2 days ago.  I didn't ask how long it would take, but 3 weeks works for me.  As long as I have it for Wanee.

As for lithiums, Jerry's above response leaves no concerns.  A lithium is a lithium.  Much for reliable than NiMh. 

1)  Do you remove the bats to charge them or are they charged inside the case?

2)  Anybody care to upload a picture of the inside of the case?
« Last Edit: March 01, 2012, 11:23:47 AM by spyder9 »

Offline spyder9

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #67 on: March 01, 2012, 10:07:32 AM »
A Beginner's guide to Helicopter Batteries.

http://myrcguide.com/index.php?topic=7059.0

Offline OOK

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #68 on: March 01, 2012, 10:38:04 AM »
I emailed Jerry with a couple of questions because I am seriously considering ordering a Aerco.  Here are his responses.  I asked him if it was ok to post since others may have the same questions and he said post away.  Peace OOK

> 1.    I have been told you prefer to use step gain for each channel is it
possible to get variable gain pots instead? I am looking for a db range of
0-50db.

Continuously variable pots are available and I now believe a better choice. My
original idea was that the switches would have a very long lifetime but of
course they make it impossible (or at least maximally disruptive) to change gain
during a recording. The pots are available in either smooth rotation or 11
detent steps. We've been using them for years and have yet to have one go noisy-
and they're easy to replace if they do fail.


> 2.    Can you order a MP-2 with continual variable gain for both channels on
one pot and balance control on the other pot?  I have a SoundDevice 702 with
this feature and love it. Is there any drawback to this type of set up in terms
of your pre?  I would still be looking for the same gain range 0-50db.

This also is doable. The only slight drawback is that the dual gain pot is not
available in the detented version, only the smooth rotation. The balance control
however can have a center detent if you wish.


> 3.    I have been told you use Jensen transformers currently.  Is that the
only option?  I know there are Cinemags and Lundahl.  Does this really matter or
do different transformers impart a different tonality to the pre?

We do indeed use Jensens.  They seem to have the widest name recognition and
some customers insist on them but we do our best to accommodate special
requests. We use the CineMag for the high gain (20 - 70 dB) version as Jensen
doesn't make that transformer in a P.C. mount. I've heard about the Lundahls but
never used them. We have a very high precision LabVIEW analysis system and there
is no measurable difference between the Jensens and CineMags. The idea is for
the transformer to be completely transparent and not color the signal at all but
it would take a person with golden ears to pronounce any difference in the
sound.  The ear is a marvelously subtle analyzer- check out the level of
echolocation that some blind people can achieve. The MP-2 is very densely packed
and any alternate transformers would need to be absolutely no larger.  (28.5 mm
diameter, 21 mm high)


> 4.    I understand you now offer an internal rechargeable battery option. How
long does it take to reach a full charge?  What is the average expected run
times?  I realize this will depend on microphone draw.  The mics I will mostly
use with this pre would be the following:
> Mbho 648- which have a draw of 1.7mA
> Gefell SMS 210- which have a draw of 3mA
> Nevaton MC49- which have a draw of 10mA – I don’t believe this number is
accurate tho.

They recharge in a couple of hours. Run time with no phantom load is about 40
hours, at ten ma (the Neuman RSM-190i (?) matrix mic draws 10 ma- one of the
Aerco's early claims to fame in the film industry was that it was the only
portable pre to power it) I'd guess 6 - 8 hours. At 1.7 ma I'd guess on the
order of 15 - 20 hours but I'm ashamed to say I haven't made these measurements
. I have a very long to-do list!  In any case, there is a protective circuit
that shuts the preamp off when the batteries reach their minimum allowable
voltage. This prevents damage to the batteries but there is no warning unless
you carry a voltmeter around with you.


> 5.    With the internal rechargeable battery is it still possible to hook up
an external battery or AC for even more extended times.  I am thinking in terms
of several day festivals where extended run times are needed.  Is this possible
even if the internal battery dies.

Yes- the external power jack is active all the time. It accepts 8 - 16 volts
D.C. any polarity, any ground. As long as the external voltage is greater than
the battery voltage, the batteries are not discharged. Note that the power
switch only controls the internal batteries- the external jack is always on so
you would have to disconnect an external battery when not in use.


> 6.    Is there a on / off switch. For the pre.  I can’t really tell from your
photos on your website.  If so how easy is it to switch.  I don’t want to
accidentally turn it off if my bag gets moved or kicked.

Yes, there is a recessed slide switch on the back. It's pretty hard to change
accidentally. We can optionally ($25)  put a locking toggle switch on the front
instead of the 3.5 mm phone jack output- but that may not fit if you choose the
pots.

DPA/HEB 4060's > R09HR
MBHO648/KA100Lk/KA200/KA300/KA500 > SD702

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #69 on: March 01, 2012, 11:11:43 AM »
(havn't looked back so please excuse the redundant question if it's already answered somewhere):

Has anyone inquired about a balanced out, say on a 6-pin mini-xlr or binder plug instead of the RCA jacks?

Also, what's the max dbu before clipping that the aerco can put out?
"This is a common practice we have on the bus; debating facts that we could easily find through printed material. It's like, how far is it today? I think it's four hours, and someone else comes in at 11 hours, and well, then we'll... just... talk about it..." - Jeb Puryear

"Nostalgia ain't what it used to be." - Jim Williams

Offline F.O.Bean

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #70 on: March 01, 2012, 09:59:41 PM »
I emailed Jerry with a couple of questions because I am seriously considering ordering a Aerco.  Here are his responses.  I asked him if it was ok to post since others may have the same questions and he said post away.  Peace OOK

> 1.    I have been told you prefer to use step gain for each channel is it
possible to get variable gain pots instead? I am looking for a db range of
0-50db.

Continuously variable pots are available and I now believe a better choice. My
original idea was that the switches would have a very long lifetime but of
course they make it impossible (or at least maximally disruptive) to change gain
during a recording. The pots are available in either smooth rotation or 11
detent steps. We've been using them for years and have yet to have one go noisy-
and they're easy to replace if they do fail.


> 2.    Can you order a MP-2 with continual variable gain for both channels on
one pot and balance control on the other pot?  I have a SoundDevice 702 with
this feature and love it. Is there any drawback to this type of set up in terms
of your pre?  I would still be looking for the same gain range 0-50db.

This also is doable. The only slight drawback is that the dual gain pot is not
available in the detented version, only the smooth rotation. The balance control
however can have a center detent if you wish.


> 3.    I have been told you use Jensen transformers currently.  Is that the
only option?  I know there are Cinemags and Lundahl.  Does this really matter or
do different transformers impart a different tonality to the pre?

We do indeed use Jensens.  They seem to have the widest name recognition and
some customers insist on them but we do our best to accommodate special
requests. We use the CineMag for the high gain (20 - 70 dB) version as Jensen
doesn't make that transformer in a P.C. mount. I've heard about the Lundahls but
never used them. We have a very high precision LabVIEW analysis system and there
is no measurable difference between the Jensens and CineMags. The idea is for
the transformer to be completely transparent and not color the signal at all but
it would take a person with golden ears to pronounce any difference in the
sound.  The ear is a marvelously subtle analyzer- check out the level of
echolocation that some blind people can achieve. The MP-2 is very densely packed
and any alternate transformers would need to be absolutely no larger.  (28.5 mm
diameter, 21 mm high)


> 4.    I understand you now offer an internal rechargeable battery option. How
long does it take to reach a full charge?  What is the average expected run
times?  I realize this will depend on microphone draw.  The mics I will mostly
use with this pre would be the following:
> Mbho 648- which have a draw of 1.7mA
> Gefell SMS 210- which have a draw of 3mA
> Nevaton MC49- which have a draw of 10mA – I don’t believe this number is
accurate tho.

They recharge in a couple of hours. Run time with no phantom load is about 40
hours, at ten ma (the Neuman RSM-190i (?) matrix mic draws 10 ma- one of the
Aerco's early claims to fame in the film industry was that it was the only
portable pre to power it) I'd guess 6 - 8 hours. At 1.7 ma I'd guess on the
order of 15 - 20 hours but I'm ashamed to say I haven't made these measurements
. I have a very long to-do list!  In any case, there is a protective circuit
that shuts the preamp off when the batteries reach their minimum allowable
voltage. This prevents damage to the batteries but there is no warning unless
you carry a voltmeter around with you.


> 5.    With the internal rechargeable battery is it still possible to hook up
an external battery or AC for even more extended times.  I am thinking in terms
of several day festivals where extended run times are needed.  Is this possible
even if the internal battery dies.

Yes- the external power jack is active all the time. It accepts 8 - 16 volts
D.C. any polarity, any ground. As long as the external voltage is greater than
the battery voltage, the batteries are not discharged. Note that the power
switch only controls the internal batteries- the external jack is always on so
you would have to disconnect an external battery when not in use.


> 6.    Is there a on / off switch. For the pre.  I can’t really tell from your
photos on your website.  If so how easy is it to switch.  I don’t want to
accidentally turn it off if my bag gets moved or kicked.

Yes, there is a recessed slide switch on the back. It's pretty hard to change
accidentally. We can optionally ($25)  put a locking toggle switch on the front
instead of the 3.5 mm phone jack output- but that may not fit if you choose the
pots.



Thanks for the info bro :)
Schoeps MK 4V & MK 41V ->
Schoeps 250|0 KCY's (x2) ->
Naiant +60v|Low Noise PFA's (x2) ->
DarkTrain Right Angle Stubby XLR's (x3) ->
Sound Devices MixPre-6 & MixPre-3

http://www.archive.org/bookmarks/diskobean
http://www.archive.org/bookmarks/Bean420
http://bt.etree.org/mytorrents.php
http://www.mediafire.com/folder/j9eu80jpuaubz/Recordings

Offline aaronji

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #71 on: March 09, 2012, 04:41:40 PM »
Jerry told me the current wait is 1mo, but we shall see  >:D

He told me about three weeks (that was about three weeks ago); of course, my order lenghtens the queue! ;)  He said he hopes to ship next week, which is close enough for me...

Jerry shipped 3 weeks and 6 days after my wire transfer went through.  A little longer than the three weeks originally estimated, but not by much.  Personally, I don't mind a few extra days...Actually, much closer to the estimated delivery schedule than a couple of other transactions with popular equipment vendors here.

Also, what's the max dbu before clipping that the aerco can put out?

20V peak-to-peak...

Offline Thom Joad

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #72 on: March 11, 2012, 07:33:23 AM »
Has anyone inquired about a balanced out, say on a 6-pin mini-xlr or binder plug instead of the RCA jacks?

Mine is a bit older and has dual, pigtailed, 3-pin, XLR balanced outs.  Awesome for going into my 661.

Offline page

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #73 on: March 11, 2012, 03:24:52 PM »
Has anyone inquired about a balanced out, say on a 6-pin mini-xlr or binder plug instead of the RCA jacks?

Mine is a bit older and has dual, pigtailed, 3-pin, XLR balanced outs.  Awesome for going into my 661.

neato, so it is something he's at least willing to humor on occasion.

Also, what's the max dbu before clipping that the aerco can put out?

20V peak-to-peak...

awesome. thanks!
"This is a common practice we have on the bus; debating facts that we could easily find through printed material. It's like, how far is it today? I think it's four hours, and someone else comes in at 11 hours, and well, then we'll... just... talk about it..." - Jeb Puryear

"Nostalgia ain't what it used to be." - Jim Williams

Offline drewski1986

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Re: Aerco MP-2 preamp - Part 2
« Reply #74 on: March 11, 2012, 03:27:19 PM »
I've go one on order so I'm going to need to order some interconnects.  What seems to work best with the aerco.  I'm thinking right angle rca's for the output and stubby xlr's exiting at 12:00 (which would be toward the bottom).  Anyone have any suggestions before I order?  Thanks.

 

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