Taperssection.com
Gear / Technical Help => Battery Boxes, Preamps, Mixers, ADCs, and Processors => Topic started by: thegreatgumbino on December 27, 2005, 03:42:39 PM
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fwiw, I've been emailing with Jerry Chamkis, who is the creator of the Aerco MP-2. He is still manufacturing them and slowly putting together a website at www.aerco.net (http://www.aerco.net), but not much exists yet.
I am not affiliated with Aerco & don't benefit from this post at all. Just thought there might be interest in the fact that he still produces them.
Here's a synopsis of what he told me:
It's very compact at a little over 1.5x3x4 in a rugged die-cast case, two (gold Neutrik) XLRs in, two RCAs out, one 3.5mm output jack, external gain switches (0-50dB in 10 dB steps), DIN standard 48 v phantom power, Reichenbach input transformers, and runs on three internal 9 v batteries or external 9-18 volts. It costs $750 and takes about a month to deliver. There's no problem at all putting in gain pots- that would get a $30 discount as the switch / resistors is more expensive and labor intensive. The problem with small pots is that they eventually go noisy but that's only with lots of rotations and they're easy to replace. Yup- it does but my goal is to be totally transparent. The Reichenbach transformers are down a couple dB at like 5 Hz and I think that contributes to the warmth- especially during earthquakes and thunderstorms. :-) The internal batteries are standard 9 volt alkalines. With no phantom load they'll run the preamp continuously for about 40 hours. With a heavy phantom load it runs for about 10 hours continuously. All times are longer for intermittent operation of course. The batteries are easy to replace after you remove the 4 screws holding the lid in place. Rugged but not sophisticated. The power converter is by far the most complex part. To make everything fit in there I wind the (300 KHz ferrite) power transformers myself- totally nuts! Those times are with Alkalines. I think a better rechargeable would be LiIon cells- six AA cels would give 8 volts with twice the capacity of the alkaline
9 volt batteries.
Q: I also read that you used a die-cast aluminum box on the old ones. Have you upgraded the > encasing to polystyrene over the years to save weight? I read something about the unit being RF shielded? Don't know if that's the case or not, but it may prevent being able to move to a poly box.
A: Yup- right again! It's a very hostile RF environment for sensitive high-gain circuits.
Q: If you make one with variable gain, is there any audible click when adjusting it as there is with the stepped gain unit?
A: Certainly not initially but that's my complaint against tiny pots- they -eventually- go noisy. Even big pots tend to do that- it just depends how much wear and tear the shaft gets. Just means they have to be occasionally lubricated or replaced.
Q: You also mentioned that the variable gain unit uses smaller pots/knobs. Hopefully they wouldn't require a screwdriver to adjust.
A: No- everything now is adjusted from external knobs between the RCA and XLR connectors.
Jerry's a really nice guy. We've emailed a few times about his units. He's open for business if anyone is interested. He can be reached at jchamkis@bga.com.
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Sweet +T. Thanks for the update. There are a few pictures on ts.com, but if you've never seen one of these Aerco pre's, they are tiny. Perfect for stealthing.
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Any chance we could get an updated picture of what it will look like........ ;D
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http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=43939.0 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=43939.0) for some pics
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http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=43939.0 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=43939.0) for some pics
I wonder if we can get some newer pics
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Jerry said he was going to try and get some newer pics and a spec sheet up on the website in the next few weeks. He also emphasized that he's pretty open for customization. I don't know how much he's willing to tinker with though.
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I sent this email to Jerry Chamkis this morning. Thought i would share it with everyone. Some of the info is rehashed, but some of it wasn't in the previous posts and I am also including a picture of the unit Jerry emailed me. I am going to have Jerry start building me one asap :)
MY EMAIL:
"Hi,
I am potentially interested in purchasing a new Aerco MP-2
Preamp. First of all, are you still manufacturing them? Secondly,
is it possible that you could email me some info on the unit? I'm
looking for specs, price, photo, etc...
I would want one with the variable gain option if possible.
Looking forward to your response,
- John"
HIS RESPONSE:
"Hi John-
Attached are a couple of not-very-good pix of the preamp. It's
really high on my list to get the website in order but there just
never seems to be time.
As you can see from the pix, it's built in a rugged die-cast
aluminum case so it's safe to bang around and very well shielded
against RF interference. It's a little over 3 x 4 x 1.3 inches and
has three internal 9 volt batteries that will run a self-powered
mic for ~40 hours continuous or a high-consumption 48 volt phantom
powered mic for ~10 hours continuous. Of course the run times are
longer for intermittent use. The batteries are in parallel and
there is a built-in switching power converter to provide +/- 16
volts for the preamp and 48 volts for the mic, so you can also feed
10 - 20 volts DC in an external coaxial power jack on the side.
The external power jack is floating so you can use a positive or
negative or no ground system so it's very flexible about sharing
camera or other available power.
The inputs are on gold-plated Neutrik XLR connectors and it uses
Reichenbach input transformers- the very best. Outputs are
single-ended on RCA jacks because the recorder is usually very
close by. Input noise is right at the theoretical minimum (for
room temperature) at -127 dBm. Frequency response is within a
half-dB from below 10 Hz to over 60 KHz. Distortion is on the
order of .01% at normal levels and rises to .1% at +10 dBm at 20
Hz. There is no problem having continuously variable gain
controls, the nominal range is 50 dB. There are two options for
the input transformer so you can have 0 - 50 dB gain for rock &
roll or 20 - 70 dB for nature recording.
Sorry this info isn't more readily available on my naked web site,
feel free to ask if you have any other questions. They're custom
built, usually take about 3 weeks and cost $750 including ground
shipping.
Cheers-
--
Jerry Chamkis
jchamkis@bga.com"
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y206/hammerhorror/mp2_61.jpg)
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That's awesome that he'll still make these.
Do you just put batteries in and the thing is ON? Some of the older ones I saw switches for power.
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That's awesome that he'll still make these.
Do you just put batteries in and the thing is ON? Some of the older ones I saw switches for power.
Any more info.....on the switches....
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That's very cool. Who's running one?
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Looks like Jerry has updated his website and has this to say in terms of the power:
"The batteries are in parallel and there is a built-in switching power converter to provide +/- 16 volts for the preamp and 48 volts for the mic, so you can also feed 10 - 20 volts DC in an external coaxial power jack on the side. The external power jack is floating so you can use a positive or negative or no ground system so it's very flexible about sharing camera or other available power."
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Sonic Sense has it listed for $619...although it says the page hasn't been updated in awhile
http://www.sonicsense.com/preamps.html (http://www.sonicsense.com/preamps.html)
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FWIW I owned one of these for a long time (back in the mid to late 90's) and it was amazing. it sounded great, was built like a tank, and jerry was the nicest guy to talk to! nice to see he is still around. - buy this preamp!
also there was a small slide switch on the back left side for power on/off....
steve
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Christian (musicsherlock) and I were PMing about the Aerco, and I called Jerry yesterday with some questions. Here's some things that we found out...
- As it says on the site, you can select either stepped gains or pots. The former is a switched network with 6 positions, and the 6 gain levels can be selected by the buyer.
- I asked if it would be possible to have a single 'stereo' gain dial (either stepped or not), and a second 'balance' dial with a center detent. Jerry liked the idea and said he'd like to offer that option to others as well, but has to check into the availability of a small enough pot with a detent. His latest followup seemed to indicate that such a piece may not longer readily exist, but he has an idea about how to fashion one nonetheless, though it may cost a little extra to the buyer.
- The RCA outputs can be replaced or supplemented with XLR outputs on a pair of short (or long) cables, since there isn't really room inside the box for a pair of output XLR
jacks. However, these would not be balanced, so there's no advantage except for those that find an XLR connector either more convenient or reliable. The default RCAs aren't quite audiophile quality, though we're looking to see if a better part might exist that will also fit. - If you really wanted XLR output jacks, you could put them on the back of the unit and skip the internal powering capability, or have Jerry install a pair of 5-pin XLRs on the front - one for intput, one for output. Again - no advantage except if you prefer the connector.
- External powering is 9-20v. The box is designed to give priority to the external power connector when sufficient power is plugged in there. If it falls too low, the box automatically and seamlessly switches to available internal power (3 9 volt batteries). There is no battery meter or indicator, but Jerry indicated that he could install a momentary switch and LED with a small amplifier circuit which would show if power was being drawn externally or not. For an extra few bucks it might be worth it for those long festival taping situations.
That's about it! I'm pretty sure I'll be ordering one shortly with gain settings: 0, +12, +18, +24, +30, +42 which gives reasonable 6dB steps in my most used gain range, as well a 0dB setting and what I'd consider a higher than normal gain (+42dB). Fortunately, going into the 744t, if I really need more gain, it's easily applied. These numbers seemed like a nice compromise. And if Jerry can make a workable balance knob, I'll be thrilled.
- Jason
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Great details, Jason. Thanks for posting them.
I'm a huge fan of the single volume + balance config. Though I have to say that it isn't such an advantage with stepped pots becuase they're easy to move in sync and the jumps are so big that it doesn't matter.
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Christian (musicsherlock) and I were PMing about the Aerco, and I called Jerry yesterday with some questions. Here's some things that we found out...
- As it says on the site, you can select either stepped gains or pots. The former is a switched network with 6 positions, and the 6 gain levels can be selected by the buyer.
- I asked if it would be possible to have a single 'stereo' gain dial (either stepped or not), and a second 'balance' dial with a center detent. Jerry liked the idea and said he'd like to offer that option to others as well, but has to check into the availability of a small enough pot with a detent. His latest followup seemed to indicate that such a piece may not longer readily exist, but he has an idea about how to fashion one nonetheless, though it may cost a little extra to the buyer.
- The RCA outputs can be replaced or supplemented with XLR outputs on a pair of short (or long) cables, since there isn't really room inside the box for a pair of output XLR
jacks. However, these would not be balanced, so there's no advantage except for those that find an XLR connector either more convenient or reliable. The default RCAs aren't quite audiophile quality, though we're looking to see if a better part might exist that will also fit. - If you really wanted XLR output jacks, you could put them on the back of the unit and skip the internal powering capability, or have Jerry install a pair of 5-pin XLRs on the front - one for intput, one for output. Again - no advantage except if you prefer the connector.
- External powering is 9-20v. The box is designed to give priority to the external power connector when sufficient power is plugged in there. If it falls too low, the box automatically and seamlessly switches to available internal power (3 9 volt batteries). There is no battery meter or indicator, but Jerry indicated that he could install a momentary switch and LED with a small amplifier circuit which would show if power was being drawn externally or not. For an extra few bucks it might be worth it for those long festival taping situations.
That's about it! I'm pretty sure I'll be ordering one shortly with gain settings: 0, +12, +18, +24, +30, +42 which gives reasonable 6dB steps in my most used gain range, as well a 0dB setting and what I'd consider a higher than normal gain (+42dB). Fortunately, going into the 744t, if I really need more gain, it's easily applied. These numbers seemed like a nice compromise. And if Jerry can make a workable balance knob, I'll be thrilled.
- Jason
Thanks for the info, Jason. +T
I hope more people start giving Jerry feedback & helping him tweak the MP2. I think it's awesome that he's open to this as well. If enough feedback is given, and he's remains open to helping develop/progress the box, it could turn into THE pre for our purposes.
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Great details, Jason. Thanks for posting them.
I'm a huge fan of the single volume + balance config. Though I have to say that it isn't such an advantage with stepped pots becuase they're easy to move in sync and the jumps are so big that it doesn't matter.
No prob. I think the seperate balance knob would have a lot of value in either gain setup. With a stepped gain, you really have no way to bias toward one side or the other to compensate for an off-center placement or other side-related gain difference. So adding the balance knob gives you that. If you also go with the continuously variable gain pot, then you have a true single 'volume' knob for levels as well. Either way, I think it adds some real value.
I just suggested in an email to Jerry that if the custom center detent pot was problematic, I wouldn't be adverse to a bypass/lockout switch that would bypass the setting of the balance knob and just lock the gain at center. At least then it also becomes a knob I don't have to worry about hitting by accident in situations where an equal balanced L/R is fine. I also inquired about other types of locking pots, so we'll see what comes of that.
- Jason
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Great details, Jason. Thanks for posting them.
I'm a huge fan of the single volume + balance config. Though I have to say that it isn't such an advantage with stepped pots becuase they're easy to move in sync and the jumps are so big that it doesn't matter.
Thanks to Jason as well for asking all the right questions!
Freelunch...the single-dial stepped gain is customized based upon your needs...assuming you have a known pair of mics that you will keep for a long time, you will know what gain is needed for most taping environments. You can then customize your steps at any six choices. I run AKG 480's which have pre-attenuation pads on the mic bodies of: -10, 0, & +6 dB...if I chose a gain scheme such as 0, 12, 24, 30, 36, 42, this would give me the following gain choices: -10, 0, 2, 6, 12, 14, 18, 20, 24, 26, 30, 32, 36, 38, 42 Advantages for me would be less "jump" from selection to selection, fine tuning adjusted through A/D, less likely to erroneously change the duel variable gains (my biggest complaint from running the SD MP-2). The biggest dB jump I will encounter within that range is going from +6 to +12.
Jerry has been gracious enough to communicate through numerous emails with me and Jason...and has been obviously open to numerous suggestions.
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does anybody know how the external power interfaces with this preamp?
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from PM's with Jason Reiser who asked Jerry similar question...
- External power takes precedence and the internal 9v connectors are a backup. So if you put some 9v batteries inside and plug into external power, you'll be running off the external power. If the jack becomes disconnected, you'll seamlessly switch to internal power. I like how he thought that out. More manufacturers should do this.
- 9 Volts is sufficient for external power, but it's the minimum suggested. Some of his documentation listed 10V so I wanted to check. I think I'd plan on running from an RC car battery (9.6V NiMH)
- No battery indicators - only experience. Fortunately the seamless switching to internal power makes this just a missing luxury. I hadn't thought to ask if an LED indicator could show where power was being drawn from (external or internal) as this would be a useful way to know if your external battery dropped below some threshold and now it's using the internals, so you should swap power soon. I'll ask in a followup email.
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that makes sense, but what is "the jack"? what is the actual physical interface between the external power supply and the mp2?
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Ben, you can check mine out anytime you want.
There is a male barrel plug type post (I think it's size "B") on the side of the unit. Then I have the female barrel plug on one end of a cable and the other end is terminated in a standard 4 pin XLR, that goes to my 12V SLA. Runs the thing for days.
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sounds good. by the end of the summer i will be fully ready to make a decision on a preamp. this one is definitely a top candidate.
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that makes sense, but what is "the jack"? what is the actual physical interface between the external power supply and the mp2?
My MP2 DC power jack is the same size as the UA-5, Marantz PMD671, etc... I believe the radio shack plug is identified as size "M".
The external power jack is floating so you can use a positive or negative type plug.
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Performed an external battery test on the Aerco MP2 today.
I took out the internal 9 volt batteries and hooked up my 9v 5400mah lithium-ion DVD battery to the MP2 to find out how long it would power it for.
Test source info: Home Stereo > JW Mod AKG 463's > Aerco MP2 > RME ADI-2 > Marantz PMD671. I am running phantom power on the Aerco.
So far it has been going for 5 hours and 20 minutes.
Unfortunately I have to leave for work now and don't know how much longer it will go for. But that is a good start.
Also wanted to mention that most of the literature states that the MP2 should be run on 10v-30v of DC power, but mine states that it is rated for 7v-30v DC power. I am not sure if this has been changed on the newer units or not (bought mine new this month).
I will try to do a longer test with the DVD battery in the future, just wanted to let people know that it will at least go for 5 hours and 20 minutes. Should even go for alot longer because the meter on the battery has not even moved.
-John
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would under supplying voltage cause damage?
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- I asked if it would be possible to have a single 'stereo' gain dial (either stepped or not), and a second 'balance' dial with a center detent. Jerry liked the idea and said he'd like to offer that option to others as well, but has to check into the availability of a small enough pot with a detent. His latest followup seemed to indicate that such a piece may not longer readily exist, but he has an idea about how to fashion one nonetheless, though it may cost a little extra to the buyer.
- The RCA outputs can be replaced or supplemented with XLR outputs on a pair of short (or long) cables, since there isn't really room inside the box for a pair of output XLR jacks. However, these would not be balanced, so there's no advantage except for those that find an XLR connector either more convenient or reliable. The default RCAs aren't quite audiophile quality, though we're looking to see if a better part might exist that will also fit.
- If you really wanted XLR output jacks, you could put them on the back of the unit and skip the internal powering capability, or have Jerry install a pair of 5-pin XLRs on the front - one for intput, one for output. Again - no advantage except if you prefer the connector.
- External powering is 9-20v. The box is designed to give priority to the external power connector when sufficient power is plugged in there. If it falls too low, the box automatically and seamlessly switches to available internal power (3 9 volt batteries). There is no battery meter or indicator, but Jerry indicated that he could install a momentary switch and LED with a small amplifier circuit which would show if power was being drawn externally or not. For an extra few bucks it might be worth it for those long festival taping situations.
That's about it! I'm pretty sure I'll be ordering one shortly with gain settings: 0, +12, +18, +24, +30, +42 which gives reasonable 6dB steps in my most used gain range, as well a 0dB setting and what I'd consider a higher than normal gain (+42dB). Fortunately, going into the 744t, if I really need more gain, it's easily applied. These numbers seemed like a nice compromise. And if Jerry can make a workable balance knob, I'll be thrilled.
- Jason
Great details, Jason. Thanks for posting them.
I'm a huge fan of the single volume + balance config. Though I have to say that it isn't such an advantage with stepped pots becuase they're easy to move in sync and the jumps are so big that it doesn't matter.
No prob. I think the seperate balance knob would have a lot of value in either gain setup. With a stepped gain, you really have no way to bias toward one side or the other to compensate for an off-center placement or other side-related gain difference. So adding the balance knob gives you that. If you also go with the continuously variable gain pot, then you have a true single 'volume' knob for levels as well. Either way, I think it adds some real value.
I just suggested in an email to Jerry that if the custom center detent pot was problematic, I wouldn't be adverse to a bypass/lockout switch that would bypass the setting of the balance knob and just lock the gain at center. At least then it also becomes a knob I don't have to worry about hitting by accident in situations where an equal balanced L/R is fine. I also inquired about other types of locking pots, so we'll see what comes of that.
- Jason
Anyone have any more conversations with Jerry regarding these upgrades to the unit?
I know the unit switches from external to internal power seamlessly, but I wonder if he'd consider upgrading the connection to a locking one similar to the V3?
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Could the rca outs be replaced with bnc connectors? I've never worked with them before, and know nothing about them, so this may be a dumb question. But, it seems that would be pretty stable, and all you'd need is a bnc > ? interconnect to run to your A/D or recorder.
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Could the rca outs be replaced with bnc connectors? I've never worked with them before, and know nothing about them, so this may be a dumb question. But, it seems that would be pretty stable, and all you'd need is a bnc > ? interconnect to run to your A/D or recorder.
what about miniXLR?
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Could the rca outs be replaced with bnc connectors? I've never worked with them before, and know nothing about them, so this may be a dumb question. But, it seems that would be pretty stable, and all you'd need is a bnc > ? interconnect to run to your A/D or recorder.
what about miniXLR?
That could work pretty well too. I think the big thing is trying to find a connection that isn't very obtrusive on the inside of the box & provides a solid / reliable connection on the outside.
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Anyone get one?. How do recent versions SOUND?
With more and more reports of cellphone interference, I'm wondering how important it is to have balanced output from the pre to the A/D. The nbox output is also unbalanced but I haven't heard any reports of interference yet.. Seems like the interference reports (so far) involve mics and not so much unbalanced cables.
Hammerhorrors new unit sounds fantastic, IMO. I think he's been more than happy with it as well.
I don't know much about the cell phone interference problems, so I can't help much there.
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What other kind of tweaks could be done to this box to make it even better?
1) Seems to me that it would make sense to have the ins/outs located on the side or the back of the unit. It seems a little cluttered up front. If it was on the side it would work pretty sweet with some shorty RA XLR's. 8)
(http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=43939.0;attach=22354;image)
(http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=43939.0;attach=22356;image)
2) Single 'stereo' gain dial with continuous variable gain (rather than stepped), and a second 'balance' dial with a center detent. (Any units have this sort of setup? I'm having a hard time picturing this)
3) Replace the lower quality default RCAs with a higher quality component, or use a mini XLR or BNC connector.
4) Replace the current power plug with a locking connector similar to the V3. This could be coupled with the addition of a momentary switch and LED with a small amplifier circuit which would show if power was being drawn externally or not.
5) It would be sweet if he could install recessed gain knobs to prevent fudging them during a recording.
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What other kind of tweaks could be done to this box to make it even better?
2) Single 'stereo' gain dial with continuous variable gain (rather than stepped), and a second 'balance' dial with a center detent. (Any units have this sort of setup? I'm having a hard time picturing this)
I have this coming in my unit this weekend
3) Replace the lower quality default RCAs with a higher quality component, or use a mini XLR or BNC connector.
Jerry mentioned something about lack of space inside...however, I seem to recall that he could eliminate the internal battery compartment to make additional room for some alternate connections...it's worth posing this question to him again...I opted to leave the internal so there would be seamless transition from external to internal power.
5) It would be sweet if he could install recessed gain knobs to prevent fudging them during a recording.
I'll see what he comes up with when I have my unit in hand....
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I have this coming in my unit this weekend
I'll see what he comes up with when I have my unit in hand....
Sweet. Look forward to seeing what you get. +T for the new toy.
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Yipppeeee! My MP-2 came this afternoon...no chance to play yet and sorry for the lame ass picture quality but here goes...took three months...I hope it's worth it...
Super sorry I didn't get the front panel film done- it's completely
un-labelled. You can send it back any time when things are calmer and I'll
hopefully have artwork done. I considered putting some temporary labelling
on last night after we missed FedEx but I thought it better to not risk
causing a problem- there is a considerable amount of dis-assembly required
to get the front panel clear. I'm afraid to tempt 'Murphy' when timing is so
critical so I left it safely in the shipping box. The left knob is the gain
and the right the balance, levels and stops as you requested.
It's got fresh batteries in it so it's ready to go- the power switch is the
slide switch on the back and it shows a white dot when on.
The external power input on the side is 8 - 20 volts DC, any polarity, any
ground. It's not affected by the power switch, the preamp is powered
whenever there is voltage there. You can feed external power in and turn the
battery switch on- the unit will power from the external input and use the
internal batteries for back up if the external fails.
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T+ Congrats. Those things sound so sweet and they are tiny. Have fun with it!
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Wow, they're so tiny that you can't even take a sharp picture of them ;) Let us know how it sounds!
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Congrats for the new toy. +T
So, if I understand correctly, the left knob adds stepped gain at intervals of 0, 12, 24, 30, 36, 42 dB. The right knob is the balance knob, but I don't fully understand how this knob works. Say 12 db of gain is added with the left knob, that is for both channels, right? How does the balance knob function?
Looks like he upgraded the rca connectors. Anything else he did different?
EDIT TO ADD: Looks like there isn't a 1/8" out jack? Is it on a different side?
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Congrats for the new toy. +T
So, if I understand correctly, the left knob adds stepped gain at intervals of 0, 12, 24, 30, 36, 42 dB. The right knob is the balance knob, but I don't fully understand how this knob works. Say 12 db of gain is added with the left knob, that is for both channels, right? How does the balance knob function?
Looks like he upgraded the rca connectors. Anything else he did different?
EDIT TO ADD: Looks like there isn't a 1/8" out jack? Is it on a different side?
I lost a bunch of my email communications with Jerry, but from what I recall he had to nix the 1/8" out jack as the customized gain knobs, i think the trim know in particular took up too much space...that knob is nice with a center detent which will be great for my ck62's as they are a couple of dB's off. haven't played with it yet, but it should be similar to the trim knob on the V3 or SD 722...I think I asked for about a 4dB swing left to right...
the stepped gain is the left knob and adds equal amounts to both channels...I would then adjust the right knob for balance if the caps are a little off from each other...
he didn't mention whether the RCA's are upgraded or that's what he uses now...
I'll run some tests this week and run it at Greyfox and Wilco
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So the center detent is, in effect, similar to the knob on the SBM-1 where there is one knob for the left and one for the right? Sorry, I can't really make it out in the pictures.
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I went over to Jerry's place yesterday to have him look at the used Aerco that I bought. Ended up spending about 2 hours over there chatting and listening to Tuvan throat singer cds. He's a pretty quirky, yet cool guy. Older gentleman that is very intelligent. Cool guy, really. His house is his shop, and it's full of electrical toys and gear. He's a major tinkerer. Kind of reminded me of Doc Brown from "Back to the Future", even down to the fact that he has built his own speaker cabinets and compiled a big/loud system. He said the system can make his rolling cart move 3" by playing the shotgun scene from Terminator 2 and placing the cart infront of the speakers!
On a side note, he's a huge fan of the iRiver H120/140 recorders. He's got at H120 that he uses and has built a tiny phantom preamp that is a tad larger than the iRiver footprint. It is pretty slick. He hasn't used/installed Rockbox yet, but was knowledgable of it. Telling him about the Rockbox metering, he seemed really excited about reconfiguring the preamp & removing the meters on it. He's going to mess around with it some more and probably put it up for sale on Ebay when it's finished.
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So the center detent is, in effect, similar to the knob on the SBM-1 where there is one knob for the left and one for the right? Sorry, I can't really make it out in the pictures.
the 722 is like this, the top(left/ knob is for variable gain and the bottom(right) knob is for trim, simple as that, its called 'linked'
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I'm interested in hearing how the Aerco > 722 sounds as well. I didn't want to let that thing go, but had to in order to fund the 722 purchase. Hopefully, I can scrape together the cash to pick up a new one from Jerry in the future.
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Anyone run Aerco > 722? Thoughts?
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ran 482's>AERCO>722 once and it was REAL boomy...it may be sacrilidge around these parts, but if you ask me 480's>722 sound just fine...
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I noticed the boominess too. But I think that's why I like it so much. The soundstage on the Aerco is just absolutely stunning. Can't wait for that puppy to hit my doorstep. :)
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I've been trying to figure out how much I like the aerco under different circumstances..
It is not shy on the bottom end but I wouldn't call it bloated or boomy. It seems fairly accurate down there though definitely not as sanitary and tight as the v3. I haven't run it in a muddy room. It doesn't seem to have the crispness of the v3. The soundstage is excellent. A lot depends on the source material and what you like. At this point I'm inclined to use it mostly in good rooms and up close. In general it sounds very natural.
I have been running it behind the MG's and once with the mk4's. The mk4 source is tough to eval because it was the first time I've run cards at the venue and almost never go there.
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I ran it in Madison Square Garden a few months back. Its about as muddy a room as your gonna get. I was really pleased by the results. Especially with being in the back of the room.
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I would never doubt the great Spyder9...but I find the Garden to be one of the most enjoyable venues of it's size...
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Aerco arrived just in time for Xmas Jam. Gave it a soundcheck on my home stereo and I have to say I am quit impressed with the Aerco. Major kudos to Jerry... and especially Christian for hooking me up with this Pre.
The sound stage on this puppy is very deep and wide. My overall rig footprint shrunk 2/3 of its current size (Tascam HD-P2) too. Can't wait to give it run this Saturday night. I'll report back with my thoughts after the weekend. I'll be running AKG 480 > Aerco MP2 > Edirol R09.
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At last!
Does your aerco have the second output, the 1/8"? I did an aerco > 722 recording a while back and ran the r09 out of the 1/8. Haven't compared it yet..
Nope. The mini jack was eliminated for this custom job. Instead of having separate step-gain knobs for each channel, Christian had Jerry make the left knob the step gain for both channels and the right knob be a balance control (trim levels) for both channels. Real slick stuff. I don't even have to fiddle with the R09 to get the levels right. Just use the Aerco.
Jerry said the mini jack was intended for headphone/earphones. He said go RCA out for the best results.
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Sweet......now your making me want to sell my MixPre and order an Aerco ( like I should have done in the first place )......
Best of luck with the new toy......I'm calling first dibs ....so drop me a PM when you get tired of it and want to sell it >:D ;D ;D ;D......but I doubt it will be any time soon ;D ;D
Peace,
jk
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Sweet......now your making me want to sell my MixPre and order an Aerco ( like I should have done in the first place )......
Best of luck with the new toy......I'm calling first dibs ....so drop me a PM when you get tired of it and want to sell it >:D ;D ;D ;D......but I doubt it will be any time soon ;D ;D
Peace,
jk
:lol:
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How are you powering the aerco? are you using the internal batteries or does it have a connector for an external pack?
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Internally, it takes three 9V alkalines which will power the unit for 10 hours (per Jerry's tests). It also has an AC jack on the left side for connecting an external 9V Lithium, NIMH RC battery pack, etc. With a Walmart 9V Lithium, I bet it powers the Aerco for hours.
The back of the unit has a switch. Left is for running on the external power source, and the Right is for running on the internal Alkalines.
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:yack:
jk
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Aerco arrived just in time for Xmas Jam. Gave gave it a soundcheck on my home stereo and I have to say I am quit impressed with the Aerco. Major kudos to Jerry... and especially Christian for hooking me up with this Pre.
The sound stage on this puppy is very deep and wide. My overall rig footprint shrunk 2/3 of its current size (Tascam HD-P2) too. Can't wait to give it run this Saturday night. I'll report back with my thoughts after the weekend. I'll be running AKG 480 > Aerco MP2 > Edirol R09.
Sweet. I look forward to hearing your recordings!
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I'll be looking for something to replace my PS-2 when I get my yearly bonus in march. This looks like the unit of choice. Small, phantom, preamp... everything I need. The wands are getting a little intense in Houston, so this really doesn't add much more metal than the PS-2. Plus with the PS-2 you either need a good pre-amp or line transformers.
Thanks for all the info
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I did some tests a while back to compare the noise floor of the aerco vs. a couple other pres. One thing that I discovered is that the aerco is dead quiet when not adding gain. In that case you're just running through the tranformers. On some models the transformers apply 20db but mine is a 0db model. I'm still pretty curious about a model with 20dB transformers..
So on friday I was thinking.. What if you run the aerco at 0db to get the transformer sound but take the gain from the 722? So I ran:
1st set: mg210 > aerco @30db > 722 line @0db
2nd set: mg200 > aerco @0db > 722 mic @ 30db
encore: mg200 > aerco @30db > 722 line @ 30dB
The impedance on the 722 is different when in line mode vs. mic mode, so that is important to keep in midn.
It was a blues show on a friday (glug glug) so I went with hypers ("idiot filters") just in case.. But the crowd was good so I had to switch to cards. Haven't really had a chance to listen but maybe some other aerco owners might want to try this variation.
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Newbie question: does the Aerco MP2 have noisy gain? Or just noisy when compared to other high-end devices?
Thanks
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The aerco is quiet.. As quiet as anything else.
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As I was opening up my Aerco to change out the batteries last night, I noticed Jerry had placed a MFG tag on the bottom inside of the unit. It said my Aerco will accept 7V - 20V external power. Which means it will work with a 9V Walmart battery. Anybody else verify this on their Aerco?
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I've been planning on getting a 9.6V battery system for mine for a while now. I'll see if I can't pick one up this weekend. I'll report back when I do.
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My Aerco runs great on my 9v wally.
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Does this thing have clip lights??? Seem overpriced for a preamp.. Just because he is using input transformers. It seems expensive... I wonder how many people would by a preamp from me with transformer inputs if I could sell if for $499.00 instead of $750!!!
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Does this thing have clip lights??? Seem overpriced for a preamp.. Just because he is using input transformers. It seems expensive... I wonder how many people would by a preamp from me with transformer inputs if I could sell if for $499.00 instead of $750!!!
No clip lights. None needed, IMO. Run it in front of an ADC or recorder and monitor your levels on there.
Do I think my transformer based M148 with all it's flaws (fixed 20db gain, no opportunity to power externally let alone with a broad range of voltages, it's less than stellar recharging times, no clip lights, it's less than stellar & not protected on/off button, and not to mention that it's way too heavy & extremely large in size) was worth twice the cost of the Aerco. Damn straight I do. To each their own.
The Aerco is the best preamp out there for the price & size if you're looking for transformers, IMO (besides the M148 of course). Jerry makes a first class product & is a stand up guy. In addition, the Aerco is one of the only units still available new.
Price is relative. I think a lot of people pay a lot more than they should for a lot of things in our hobby.
Try building a transformer based pre and find out. If you've spent any time on this board you've noticed there's a very large demand for them.
My $0.02.
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Does this thing have clip lights??? Seem overpriced for a preamp.. Just because he is using input transformers. It seems expensive... I wonder how many people would by a preamp from me with transformer inputs if I could sell if for $499.00 instead of $750!!!
Not to take anything away from the Aerco MP2, but if you can build one with high quality parts, clip light and all for 499, yeah I think you would have a line forming. I might even be in that line...
let the price wars begin....JK
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Does this thing have clip lights???
Why is it always about the clip lights with you? :P
I wonder how many people would by a preamp from me with transformer inputs if I could sell if for $499.00 instead of $750!!!
The r&d takes a lot of time.. Esp that 48v circuit. He has some special sauce there.
As others have immediately replied, build a m148 knockoff if you're going to do anything..
I'd still like to build one of the jensen reference designs to play with (with sla 48v).
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Does this thing have clip lights??? Seem overpriced for a preamp.. Just because he is using input transformers. It seems expensive... I wonder how many people would by a preamp from me with transformer inputs if I could sell if for $499.00 instead of $750!!!
No frickin' way its over-priced. That's a ridiuclous comment coming from another manufacturer. Own and run one first. The Aerco is a spectacular Pre. I've had the chance to run the Lunatec V3, SD Mp2, the Edirol UA-5, and the Denecke AD-20. The Aerco holds its weight against all the big boys. Checkout Freelunch's comp between the Deva, Aerco, and Lunatec V3.
That said, why not build a Pre w/ transformer inputs? You're talented enough to do it. And there's enough of us here who would try it out and even buy it. ;)
Do it!!! ;D
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Does this thing have clip lights??? Seem overpriced for a preamp.. Just because he is using input transformers. It seems expensive... I wonder how many people would by a preamp from me with transformer inputs if I could sell if for $499.00 instead of $750!!!
No frickin' way its over-priced. That's a ridiuclous comment coming from another manufacturer. Own and run one first. The Aerco is a spectacular Pre. I've had the chance to run the Lunatec V3, SD Mp2, the Edirol UA-5, and the Denecke AD-20. The Aerco holds its weight against all the big boys. Checkout Freelunch's comp between the Deva, Aerco, and Lunatec V3.
That said, why not build a Pre w/ transformer inputs? You're talented enough to do it. And there's enough of us here who would try it out and even buy it. ;)
Do it!!! ;D
You could say the same thing about the m148. $1500 brand new and all the thing has is an on/off switch. Is it worth that...HELL YES! IMO it's the best pre for concert taping out there. Luckly I did not have to pay that but damn straight I would have >:D
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I got a bit of flak for what I said. It was kind of stupid now that I think about it. A product is only worth what people are willing to pay for it.. I should have not made a comment on its price but rather the lack of a clip light seems to me to be a basic part of a preamps design. When we are talking about a higher end preamp. I respect this guy he has done some amazing shit. I would love to hear this preamp in action one day. I meant no disrespect. I was making a comment on Function vrs.. Price and I think I could have been just a tad more subtle about it.
Chris Church
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I got a bit of flak for what I said. It was kind of stupid now that I think about it. A product is only worth what people are willing to pay for it.. I should have not made a comment on its price but rather the lack of a clip light seems to me to be a basic part of a preamps design. When we are talking about a higher end preamp. I respect this guy he has done some amazing shit. I would love to hear this preamp in action one day. I meant no disrespect. I was making a comment on Function vrs.. Price and I think I could have been just a tad more subtle about it.
Chris Church
I think the lack of a clip light on a variable gain preamp is kind of weak....the psp2 and m148 don't need them due to fixed gain. you could be bricking and have no clue.
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Does this thing have clip lights??? Seem overpriced for a preamp.. Just because he is using input transformers. It seems expensive... I wonder how many people would by a preamp from me with transformer inputs if I could sell if for $499.00 instead of $750!!!
No frickin' way its over-priced. That's a ridiuclous comment coming from another manufacturer. Own and run one first. The Aerco is a spectacular Pre. I've had the chance to run the Lunatec V3, SD Mp2, the Edirol UA-5, and the Denecke AD-20. The Aerco holds its weight against all the big boys. Checkout Freelunch's comp between the Deva, Aerco, and Lunatec V3.
That said, why not build a Pre w/ transformer inputs? You're talented enough to do it. And there's enough of us here who would try it out and even buy it. ;)
Do it!!! ;D
You could say the same thing about the m148. $1500 brand new and all the thing has is an on/off switch. Is it worth that...HELL YES! IMO it's the best pre for concert taping out there. Luckly I did not have to pay that but damn straight I would have >:D
ditto that. lucky to have found one used 4 years ago, but would have gladly kicked down for new. ;D
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I think the lack of a clip light on a variable gain preamp is kind of weak....the psp2 and m148 don't need them due to fixed gain. you could be bricking and have no clue.
i realize you know this since you owned one marc, but just to clarify the psp2 has a clip light for each channel, right above the power button. it's sort of useless for monitoring levels though and only aids as a brickwall identifier since it doesn't light up until the incoming signal is +3 dB over 0. it's also not technically fixed gain either since it's lowest output is ~20 dB and there are two more stepped gain options after that; +6 and +12.
I think when you only have three gain settings its not really needed but when you have more then 6 I think its very much a needed item so that you can maximize your signal to noise ratio. That being said if you had a distortion analyzer and could calibrate your recorders input VU then you could in fact know when your preamp was at its limit. But I think its better to just put a clip led in the preamp. It makes it easy to set the levels properly.
When I am working on a console the first thing I do is PFL the channel and look at the signal coming in. I then get that gain knob set so I have some headroom. I really want to get that input gain as hot as I can. With out having a clip light or a VU on the preamp that's impossible to do. The vu on your recorder only indicates level not distortion of the front end of the preamp. You could for example attenuate the input on your recorder and run your preamp hot end up with distortion and no even know it. Unless you were using headphones to monitor. That's why a clip light on the preamp is vital to setting gain. So you know you don't have any distortion issues going to tape.
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I think the lack of a clip light on a variable gain preamp is kind of weak....the psp2 and m148 don't need them due to fixed gain. you could be bricking and have no clue.
i realize you know this since you owned one marc, but just to clarify the psp2 has a clip light for each channel, right above the power button. it's sort of useless for monitoring levels though and only aids as a brickwall identifier since it doesn't light up until the incoming signal is +3 dB over 0. it's also not technically fixed gain either since it's lowest output is ~20 dB and there are two more stepped gain options after that; +6 and +12.
should have been clearer...I know the psp-2 has them, but you could do without them. I literally never ran it unless set to zero and -35 mic sens, and the clip lights never came on. but maybe there are setups where you would need to run hotter, and the clip lights would help?
If the aerco is full continuous gain, I think it's a real detriment not to have clip lights. sure, you can run real low so there's no risk, but whether that is ideal or not depends on how the aerco sounds run low versus hot, I guess. And depending on what ADC you run behind it, you might not be able to generate sufficient gain without turning up the aerco...again having no idea if you're clipping it or not.
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The signal to noise ratio on the Aerco is very low from my discussions with Jerry. Additionally, I think Freelunch or Spyder9 ran some tests to verify.
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The signal to noise ratio on the Aerco is very low from my discussions with Jerry. Additionally, I think Freelunch or Spyder9 ran some tests to verify.
I am sure the signal to noise ratio is better then the recorders you guys are using. The whole point of a clip light is so that you can get the most amount of gain out of your "quiet" preamp section and reduce the need for gain on your more noisy "recorders" preamp section. So Yes I am sure the preamp is quiet. It should be quiet that's why you guys use preamps in the first place but you can not get the most out of your preamp with out a clip light.
Chris Church
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I got a bit of flak for what I said. It was kind of stupid now that I think about it. A product is only worth what people are willing to pay for it.. I should have not made a comment on its price but rather the lack of a clip light seems to me to be a basic part of a preamps design. When we are talking about a higher end preamp. I respect this guy he has done some amazing shit. I would love to hear this preamp in action one day. I meant no disrespect. I was making a comment on Function vrs.. Price and I think I could have been just a tad more subtle about it.
Chris Church
I think the lack of a clip light on a variable gain preamp is kind of weak....the psp2 and m148 don't need them due to fixed gain. you could be bricking and have no clue.
The base Aerco has stepped (fixed) gain. Jerry provides variable gain as part of his custom packages.
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The signal to noise ratio on the Aerco is very low from my discussions with Jerry. Additionally, I think Freelunch or Spyder9 ran some tests to verify.
Freelunch did the testing, actually. I was able to finally give mine a run last month. Here's some recent shows with the Aerco in the chain:
http://www.archive.org/details/umelt2007-02-10.spyder9.flac16
http://www.archive.org/details/breakfast2007-02-02.spyder9.flac16
http://www.archive.org/details/samkb2007-01-26.spyder9.flac16
http://www.archive.org/details/gpgds2007-01-19.spyder9.flac16
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I got a bit of flak for what I said. It was kind of stupid now that I think about it. A product is only worth what people are willing to pay for it.. I should have not made a comment on its price but rather the lack of a clip light seems to me to be a basic part of a preamps design. When we are talking about a higher end preamp. I respect this guy he has done some amazing shit. I would love to hear this preamp in action one day. I meant no disrespect. I was making a comment on Function vrs.. Price and I think I could have been just a tad more subtle about it.
Chris Church
I think the lack of a clip light on a variable gain preamp is kind of weak....the psp2 and m148 don't need them due to fixed gain. you could be bricking and have no clue.
The base Aerco has stepped (fixed) gain. Jerry provides variable gain as part of his custom packages.
Fixed stepped gain still needs a clip light to see where the distortion is at. Because every mic has different sensitivity and not every mic is subjected to the same SPL how would you know when your preamp was overloading? unless you use headphones?
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is there any reason why the PSP-2 clip light comes on +3? seems kinda worthless to me
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is there any reason why the PSP-2 clip light comes on +3? seems kinda worthless to me
It could be that the preamp is so good it does not clip until the input drives the output to +3db. That's a good preamp design! I would assume that is why you clip light comes on so late. And that's a good thing.
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chris...let me quote one of the great lines of Hollyweird:
"if you build it, they will come"
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is there any reason why the PSP-2 clip light comes on +3? seems kinda worthless to me
Because it is French!
lol!
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chris...let me quote one of the great lines of Hollyweird:
"if you build it, they will come"
I will have something by the end of this year.
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I will have something by the end of this year.
I'd buy a kit right now that included the parts to make one of the jensen reference designs.. that mouser catalog is just too damn heavy to lift when I'm sitting on the can.
Thinking aloud here... (nice to be off the post tooth extraction vicodin!)
I think one gotcha you need to watch out for is claims of copying.. Nobody wants to be accused of that.. the trouble is, these preamps are really quite simple (except for the aerco 48v circuit, that's some special sauce!) and there are only so many ways to build them (or so it seems from my couch). You want it to be clear to everyone that this is your design and not a copy of an 148 or aerco. Of course Doug knows there is demand for the 148 that he cannot fill. Maybe he'd license the design to you and everyone would be very happy? Maybe the price could even come down (because it is very high given the contents). Seems like that would be good for everyone.
One thing about Doug.. He has insanely high end playback. So his ability to evaluate the true sonic characteristics of these designs is beyond many folks here. So perhaps the 148 price is justified from the cost and time of that r&d. I haven't owned or run one but I'm going to go out on a limb and say the 148 sound didn't happen by accident or luck..
I could post the rmod/nbox schematic here and everyone with significant assembly skills could copy it. I'll bet I could have it built in china for cheap. But would Nick, who is also a serious taper, continue to support his customers like he does? Probably not. And that support is critical. Hence, no schematic. When producing a new preamp, I think it needs to be more than "cheaper".. Undercutting the prices with a clip light also isn't enough....
As an aside.. My aerco gets gain from the op-amp and not the transformer. I know there is a version that gets 20dB from the transformer. The aerco is a very quiet preamp at any gain setting.. but when you run it at 0dB gain it is Super quiet because it bypasses most everything.. So that makes me wonder just how quiet a version that gets 20dB from the transformer could be.. But I also wonder what the sonic downsides to that are...
Sorry for getting off topic in what is pretty much our "team aerco" thread.. We had a good DIY 148 thread going.. Maybe that would be a better place to discuss the wish list and pitfalls?
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I will have something by the end of this year.
I'd buy a kit right now that included the parts to make one of the jensen reference designs.. that mouser catalog is just too damn heavy to lift when I'm sitting on the can.
Thinking aloud here... (nice to be off the post tooth extraction vicodin!)
I think one gotcha you need to watch out for is claims of copying.. Nobody wants to be accused of that.. the trouble is, these preamps are really quite simple (except for the aerco 48v circuit, that's some special sauce!) and there are only so many ways to build them (or so it seems from my couch). You want it to be clear to everyone that this is your design and not a copy of an 148 or aerco. Of course Doug knows there is demand for the 148 that he cannot fill. Maybe he'd license the design to you and everyone would be very happy? Maybe the price could even come down (because it is very high given the contents). Seems like that would be good for everyone.
One thing about Doug.. He has insanely high end playback. So his ability to evaluate the true sonic characteristics of these designs is beyond many folks here. So perhaps the 148 price is justified from the cost and time of that r&d. I haven't owned or run one but I'm going to go out on a limb and say the 148 sound didn't happen by accident or luck..
I could post the rmod/nbox schematic here and everyone with significant assembly skills could copy it. I'll bet I could have it built in china for cheap. But would Nick, who is also a serious taper, continue to support his customers like he does? Probably not. And that support is critical. Hence, no schematic. When producing a new preamp, I think it needs to be more than "cheaper".. Undercutting the prices with a clip light also isn't enough....
As an aside.. My aerco gets gain from the op-amp and not the transformer. I know there is a version that gets 20dB from the transformer. The aerco is a very quiet preamp at any gain setting.. but when you run it at 0dB gain it is Super quiet because it bypasses most everything.. So that makes me wonder just how quiet a version that gets 20dB from the transformer could be.. But I also wonder what the sonic downsides to that are...
Sorry for getting off topic in what is pretty much our "team aerco" thread.. We had a good DIY 148 thread going.. Maybe that would be a better place to discuss the wish list and pitfalls?
I will not be copying anyone :) I already have my design. It will be a st-9100 with a transformer front end. My only challenge will be putting in phantom with 3 x 9 volt batteries and making it work.
I would never copy these guys. They make a great product. And I respect that. Most of my gain will come from the transformer it self. Then I will have a very simple but very linear back end to amplify what the transformer is doing.
I have to figure a few more things out I will have a prototype to float around in the next 6 months. That's my goal.
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I like the minimal signal chain approach. the pure 48v phantom in the brick (as supplied by 8 small 6v SLAs) is the shit.
short path..straight to FAT jensen transformers..and viola!
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I will not be copying anyone :) I already have my design. It will be a st-9100 with a transformer front end. My only challenge will be putting in phantom with 3 x 9 volt batteries and making it work.
I would never copy these guys. They make a great product. And I respect that. Most of my gain will come from the transformer it self. Then I will have a very simple but very linear back end to amplify what the transformer is doing.
I have to figure a few more things out I will have a prototype to float around in the next 6 months. That's my goal.
Chris, If I might make a suggestion, most people are willing to deal with external power, in an effort to minimize the size of the box. Could you make a smaller external power only version, and then make one, with the three 9V, side-by-side, that could mount on the outside of the box, or inside a slightly larger housing?
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I will not be copying anyone :) I already have my design. It will be a st-9100 with a transformer front end. My only challenge will be putting in phantom with 3 x 9 volt batteries and making it work.
I would never copy these guys. They make a great product. And I respect that. Most of my gain will come from the transformer it self. Then I will have a very simple but very linear back end to amplify what the transformer is doing.
I have to figure a few more things out I will have a prototype to float around in the next 6 months. That's my goal.
Chris, If I might make a suggestion, most people are willing to deal with external power, in an effort to minimize the size of the box. Could you make a smaller external power only version, and then make one, with the three 9V, side-by-side, that could mount on the outside of the box, or inside a slightly larger housing?
To be very honest I would rather have an external power supply. Then I can make the preamp very small..
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Can I make a request that we don't clutter this thread about "Aerco MP-2 Information > $750 new & 1 Month Lead Time" with this discussion of a future transformer based pre? Thanks.
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Can I make a request that we don't clutter this thread about "Aerco MP-2 Information > $750 new & 1 Month Lead Time" with this discussion of a future transformer based pre? Thanks.
I am sorry I was just answering questions... Some times threads go all over the place. I meant no disrespect.
I will wait for someone else to start a new thread about my new preamp... I am not interested in starting one since I have been called out as some one that cares more about selling then helping users here.
Chris Church
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I just went to start "said thread", and found this:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,79558.0.html
so here we go!
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I'm going to pull the trigger on an Aerco & have been thinking about trying to customize the unit a bit. I was hoping current users might chime in with some insight as to what they like/dislike or would like to see different if they could get a new one. Here are my thoughts on potential changes.
1) I like the idea of having the xlr inputs on the side of the unit & away from the gain knobs like these pics. If not this, I think on the back (opposite) side of the unit from the gain knobs would be nice as well.
(http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=43939.0;attach=13817;image)
2) Locking external power jack. Either a full size / mini 4-pin xlr or a jack similar to the V3's locking connector. I think the addition of a momentary switch and LED with a small amplifier circuit which would show if power was being drawn externally or not would be worth it as well.
3) Power switch to be on the same face as the gain knobs.
4) Can he substitute mini-xlr jacks for the rca jacks? They'd still be unbalanced outputs, but I'd like the peace of mind from a locking connector. Maybe he can substitute mini-xlr jacks for the inputs as well to save some room?
5) Regardless if he can use use something other than the rca jacks, I'd still like it to have the 1/8" stereo jack output.
6) I think a single 'stereo' gain dial (either stepped or not), and a second 'balance' dial with a center detent would be best for the gain knobs. The DPA's are going to be matched to w/in 1db, I believe, so this would be a pretty easy approach.
7) Does any one have a variable gain unit? I'm assuming the variable gain does not have an audible click when changing gain like the stepped units do. Are the variable gain units available in the 0-50 db and the 20-70 db options? I think the 20 - 70 db option would be the way to go. I don't see myself every running at 0 db.
8) Is it possible to add a clip light for each channel? I don't think this is a necessity, but if he can add it, why not?
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My power switch is plastic and sticks out just a bit. I keep tape over it and usually run off an external wally battery. I don't really like those huge locking power switches. Just one more thing to snag in a pocket, etc. I'd go with the small plastic switch and ask Jerry to recess it flush. He should be able to shim the switch so it doesn't stick out at all.
Knobs next to xlr's is kinda crowded. With practice you can easily grab both knobs with two fingers. But you must be able to access the face at a certain angle to do that. A v3 shaped knob with flats would be nice because it would allow me to feel that the gain setting on both pots is the same in the dark (flats are aligned).
I think I prefer having everything on one face of the aerco. Putting controls on one side and i/o on the other makes the unit larger and could make control access more difficult in a pocket.
Be nice if Jerry could eliminate noise when changing gain but I can see how that might be impossible.
I don't think mini-xlr saves any room compared to xlr stubbies (except internally and I don't think you'll get a smaller box). But maybe you were going to do stubbie mini-xlrs?
RCA vs. minixlr.. Hmm.. Tough call. The xlr's I run are really tight so pull off is not a concern.
I imagine the +20dB transformer in the 20-70 model sounds different than the 0dB transformer in the 0-50 but I don't know... I don't think I could record dino jr in some locations with schoeps level sensitivity with a 20dB min pre. Extreme case, yes but I'm hitting them twice in june. Unless you want the potentially different sound of the +20 xformers, or need the 60 and 70 db gain, I'd go with the 0db model.
I'd definitely go with stepped gain. More reliable and quiet for the long haul. Also easier to set your gain at an exact level vs. "1:00", etc.
I like the idea of a single knob for gain. But I don't think I would have a balance pot into the signal path, even with a detent. Not sure if it is in the signal path or whether it modifies the amount of gain. Maybe Jerry would do jumpers on the board that bypass the balance pot? Though my guess is you'd always have it bypassed ;)
As far as the clip light, I'd keep it simple. I already tape over enough LEDs on the 722.
Expect an MSMW MG210 > aerco vs. v3 comp later today!
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Thanks for your thoughts! +T in twelve.
I don't think mini-xlr saves any room compared to xlr stubbies (except internally and I don't think you'll get a smaller box). But maybe you were going to do stubbie mini-xlrs?
Bingo! Don't know if it's doable, but never say never. 8)
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I'm going to pull the trigger on an Aerco & have been thinking about trying to customize the unit a bit. I was hoping current users might chime in with some insight as to what they like/dislike or would like to see different if they could get a new one. Here are my thoughts on potential changes.
1) I like the idea of having the xlr inputs on the side of the unit & away from the gain knobs like these pics. If not this, I think on the back (opposite) side of the unit from the gain knobs would be nice as well.
(http://taperssection.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=43939.0;attach=13817;image)
2) Locking external power jack. Either a full size / mini 4-pin xlr or a jack similar to the V3's locking connector. I think the addition of a momentary switch and LED with a small amplifier circuit which would show if power was being drawn externally or not would be worth it as well.
3) Power switch to be on the same face as the gain knobs.
4) Can he substitute mini-xlr jacks for the rca jacks? They'd still be unbalanced outputs, but I'd like the peace of mind from a locking connector. Maybe he can substitute mini-xlr jacks for the inputs as well to save some room?
5) Regardless if he can use use something other than the rca jacks, I'd still like it to have the 1/8" stereo jack output.
6) I think a single 'stereo' gain dial (either stepped or not), and a second 'balance' dial with a center detent would be best for the gain knobs. The DPA's are going to be matched to w/in 1db, I believe, so this would be a pretty easy approach.
7) Does any one have a variable gain unit? I'm assuming the variable gain does not have an audible click when changing gain like the stepped units do. Are the variable gain units available in the 0-50 db and the 20-70 db options? I think the 20 - 70 db option would be the way to go. I don't see myself every running at 0 db.
8) Is it possible to add a clip light for each channel? I don't think this is a necessity, but if he can add it, why not?
One simple suggestion.. Is if this thing has a steped gain control make the first possition the on/off :) Then you dont need the huge switch for power..
If it does not there are plenty of volume pots with built in switches on the market..
Chris Church
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Thanks for your thoughts! +T in twelve.
I don't think mini-xlr saves any room compared to xlr stubbies (except internally and I don't think you'll get a smaller box). But maybe you were going to do stubbie mini-xlrs?
Bingo! Don't know if it's doable, but never say never. 8)
Its early, but welcome back to Team Aerco, Matthew!!! ;D
Brian, you're the best at those comps. Thank you.
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Yep, I can't wait to hear the comp. I really wanted to try one of these Aerco's but still had my heart set on a PSP2, in the meantime I picked up a MR-1000 just to be safe ::)
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Does the Aerco MP-2 have a switch to turn phantom power off?
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the one i ran did not have a power switch or a switch for phantom, once it was plugged into power it was on.
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the one i ran did not have a power switch or a switch for phantom, once it was plugged into power it was on.
Every one I have seen has a power switch, but it only works with reference to the internal batteries if you're using them. If using an external batt/DC power, once plugged in they are always on. No extra switch for phantom at all.
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I guess no SBD patches with the Aerco in between then. Thanks guys! I'll ask Jerry if a switch can be implemented.
Now to decide if I want this or a V2...
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There's an internal jumper that can be used to turn off phantom.
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the one i ran did not have a power switch or a switch for phantom, once it was plugged into power it was on.
Did you like the Aerco MP-2 better than your PSP-2? Just curious.
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the one i ran did not have a power switch or a switch for phantom, once it was plugged into power it was on.
Did you like the Aerco MP-2 better than your PSP-2? Just curious.
didn't do any close enough comparisons to be able to give an accurate response, but i did really really like the sets i ran with the aerco, the yonder that is on etree (http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=508223) sounded really nice IMO. the Truckers set didn't sound as dialed in (http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=508240)
I still need to track and possibly torrent my source from Panic in San Diego...
ck1x/mk46>JWmod460>aerco mp2>722
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I'm in! Ordered one last night. Jerry is going to put phantom power switches on the side, so I can flip the phantom off for SBD patching without having to open the case and mess with the jumpers.
Excited to join the team!
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I'm in! Ordered one last night. Jerry is going to put phantom power switches on the side, so I can flip the phantom off for SBD patching without having to open the case and mess with the jumpers.
Excited to join the team!
nice!
i bet its gonna sound fantastic behind the pelusos - keep us posted when you get some stuff taped
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I'm in! Ordered one last night. Jerry is going to put phantom power switches on the side, so I can flip the phantom off for SBD patching without having to open the case and mess with the jumpers.
Excited to join the team!
nice!
i bet its gonna sound fantastic behind the pelusos - keep us posted when you get some stuff taped
Probably not much until Oct. Then it'll be somewhat busy - some AUDs, some SBDs. This was a good time in my taping schedule to wait a month for something to be built!
Once the R-4 sells, I'll be purchasing an R-09. That'll be one compact half of the rig!
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Also, Jerry is putting the phantom power toggle switch in place of the 1/8" output jack. He could have put it on the side and retained the 1/8" output, but we were afraid it may accidentally get bumped (don't want to send 48V phantom to a SBD!).
Oh, and it's one switch that disables phantom power to both channels. The jumpers are still functional inside, if I wanted to just lift phantom off of one channel for whatever reason.
Really excited for this box!
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So I should have the money to order one of these at the end of the week. I just need a bit of help making sure I get the right set-up for my needs. Here are a few questions I was hoping you guys could help me with:
1. I'm leaning towards the modified single gain + balance knob set-up. I've used the 722 with unlinked gain before, and made me never want to try it again. Any major drawbacks to this new set-up? I plan on running AT 943 mics with this box into the R-09, with a possible upgrade to DPA4023 next spring.
2. Stepped gain or pots? I have no idea which to get... Anything I should consider?
3. If I get stepped, what steps do you recommend? All I can figure right now is 0, +12, +18, +24, +30, +42, but have no idea with my mics. I do mostly loud rock shows, and occasional acoustic sets.
4. Is there anyway to get a smaller on/off switch? I mostly run stealth, and this thing will like reside in my pockets during shows. I get the feeling that's the kind of switch I would inadvertantly knock...
Any help appreciated. Thanks!
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I hate pots.. Love stepped for quiet and reliability over time. The balance knob version sounds cool but I never adjust balance in the field so I'd hate to introduce a pot just for that feature. I figure balance tweaks can be done in post.
My steps are in 10dB increments. The steps you mentioned would be fine..
The on/off on mine is very small. I keep gaffe tape on it and don't have any trouble. I think Jerry could shim it so it would be recessed below the surface and impossible to flip without inserting something.
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I hate pots.. Love stepped for quiet and reliability over time. The balance knob version sounds cool but I never adjust balance in the field so I'd hate to introduce a pot just for that feature. I figure balance tweaks can be done in post.
My steps are in 10dB increments. The steps you mentioned would be fine..
The on/off on mine is very small. I keep gaffe tape on it and don't have any trouble. I think Jerry could shim it so it would be recessed below the surface and impossible to flip without inserting something.
Great, thanks for the advice. The only thing about the traditional gain knob set-up is that I'd always have them at the same level anyway, so less knobs to touch. Come to think of it I really only need one knob...
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The on/off on mine is very small. I keep gaffe tape on it and don't have any trouble. I think Jerry could shim it so it would be recessed below the surface and impossible to flip without inserting something.
Is your on-off switch not locking?
My DB2 has a locking power switch - you have to pull out on the bat to toggle positions and when the bat is released it locks the switch in place. I'm surprised he doesn't use those on the MP2. Maybe that would be something to ask for.
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Does the MP2 work ok using rechargeable batteries?
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Just picked up a used unit. Looking forward to running it. Guess I'll look back in the thread & see if they can be externally powered.
;D
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External power is 9-18volts. I run mine off a wally lion (unless I need a smaller form factor) and consumption is very frugal.
I haven't tried rechargable 9 volts internally.
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External power is 9-18volts. I run mine off a wally lion (unless I need a smaller form factor) and consumption is very frugal.
I haven't tried rechargable 9 volts internally.
I power mine with a BG 10-14-88 and have gotten well over 8 hours of use with only one bar missing from the battery life meter. It would probably run the Aerco for > 24 hours. Half the time when I return home from a ~ 3 hour show, the battery charger still thinks the battery is full.
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I power mine with a BG 10-14-88 and have gotten well over 8 hours of use with only one bar missing from the battery life meter. It would probably run the Aerco for > 24 hours.
Have you tested a full discharge cycle? You might want to before you rely on it lasting 24 hours.
I ran a test with a BG 10-14-88 powering a portico and it took a long time for the first bar to go dark (hours) but the time between the last two was not very long and the time between the last bar and shut down was pretty quick (10s of minutes). Based on the observed behavior, I think the meter is indicating something like output voltage relative to the operating range rather than stored charge. If it accurately reported stored charge, it should have reported a linear discharge rate.
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Have you tested a full discharge cycle? You might want to before you rely on it lasting 24 hours.
I have not, and am generally pretty OCD about recharging after use. My batteries usually are on the charger before I pass out after a show.
I'll bet with its light draw, however, that you can get some serious run-time out of 8000mah.
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I was just checking this thread, the web site; www.aerco.net was working last night and today it is not working. Also, the emails bounce back too.
Anyone know what is up?
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I was just checking this thread, the web site; www.aerco.net was working last night and today it is not working. Also, the emails bounce back too.
Anyone know what is up?
Works for me today. Email worked on Monday... I know there was a major network link down in the northeast US earlier this week, maybe there's some DNS server hangover or something else related.
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Have you tested a full discharge cycle? You might want to before you rely on it lasting 24 hours.
I have not, and am generally pretty OCD about recharging after use. My batteries usually are on the charger before I pass out after a show.
I'll bet with its light draw, however, that you can get some serious run-time out of 8000mah.
The draw is light. I have run three 9V duracell ultras inside the Aerco and got close to 10 hours run time. Each duracell is approximately 500 mah (1500mah total). A Walmart battery its about 6000mah.
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Just thought I'd try again. Anyone tried rechargeable 9V in the Aerco? I'm not looking forward to burning through 9V batteries at three times the rate I am right now...
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can't help ya..
but why dont you just try some out? they are not that expensive, to at least give em a go.
if they dont work out then your fire alarms are set for life.
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can't help ya..
but why dont you just try some out? they are not that expensive, to at least give em a go.
if they dont work out then your fire alarms are set for life.
I will when I get my MP2. It will probably be a month or two from now...
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Just thought I'd try again. Anyone tried rechargeable 9V in the Aerco? I'm not looking forward to burning through 9V batteries at three times the rate I am right now...
This is what I'm going to do for now. I'll post the results.
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IPower's 9V lithium rechargeables look like the bee's knees.
http://www.nimhbattery.com/ipower-9v-lithium-rechargeable-battery.php
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IPower's 9V lithium rechargeables look like the bee's knees.
http://www.nimhbattery.com/ipower-9v-lithium-rechargeable-battery.php
Nice find. Here are the specs from the distributors website:
http://www.ipowerus.com/specs/9v500mah_spec_060411.htm
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It appears to be an 8.4 V battery.
Li-Polymer 9V (8.4V) 500mAh, min. 470mAh, (Hi-Rate mode: min. 415mAh)
I didn't realise the typical alkaline 9V actually produces less than 9V:
http://www.duracell.com/oem/productdata/default.asp
I noticed ipowerus make a 9V recharchable that discharges at greater than 9V throughout most of its cycle...
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I think the 8.4 volts would produce about 46 volts of phantom with the AERCO. It depends on how much voltage they produce under load - it might drop further.
Right, so it might be more advantageous to use these?
http://www.ipowerus.com/specs/IP-NIMH-96V230H-IB.htm
(http://www.ipowerus.com/Icon/9.JPG)
(http://www.ipowerus.com/specs/IP-NIMH-96V230H-IB_files/image004.gif)
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I just found out that my AERCO still has several weeks before being finished. I was hoping to have it for next weekend. Hopefully I made the right choice here, as I had to pass up a couple of V2's already!
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you made a great choice...
V2s come and go..., your aerco will be a hot item should you decide to sell it.
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you made a great choice...
V2s come and go..., your aerco will be a hot item should you decide to sell it.
I'll second that.
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you made a great choice...
V2s come and go..., your aerco will be a hot item should you decide to sell it.
really?
i would say just the opposite (not as a pre choice but the availability) -
the aerco is a great pre but you can still get one custom made for the price a used V2 goes for if/when they come available
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i would say just the opposite (not as a pre choice but the availability) -
the aerco is a great pre but you can still get one custom made for the price a used V2 goes for if/when they come available
But isn't the v2 just a cheaper v3? And v3's aren't at all scarce. I don't recall any cases where the v2 was demonstrated to be any better than the v3. And on paper the v3's gain based trim design is superior to the v2's attenuation.
There is only one person who makes the aerco so it is subject to no longer being available at any time... It is the only compact transformer pre being made.
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i would say just the opposite (not as a pre choice but the availability) -
the aerco is a great pre but you can still get one custom made for the price a used V2 goes for if/when they come available
But isn't the v2 just a cheaper v3? And v3's aren't at all scarce. I don't recall any cases where the v2 was demonstrated to be any better than the v3. And on paper the v3's gain based trim design is superior to the v2's attenuation.
There is only one person who makes the aerco so it is subject to no longer being available at any time... It is the only compact transformer pre being made.
perhaps, but it seems the V2s are much more of a commodity around these parts when they go on sale - very possibly due to their reputation and simply being more well known -- then again you don't see many used aercos either
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i would say just the opposite (not as a pre choice but the availability) -
the aerco is a great pre but you can still get one custom made for the price a used V2 goes for if/when they come available
But isn't the v2 just a cheaper v3? And v3's aren't at all scarce. I don't recall any cases where the v2 was demonstrated to be any better than the v3. And on paper the v3's gain based trim design is superior to the v2's attenuation.
There is only one person who makes the aerco so it is subject to no longer being available at any time... It is the only compact transformer pre being made.
perhaps, but it seems the V2s are much more of a commodity around these parts when they go on sale - very possibly due to their reputation and simply being more well known -- then again you don't see many used aercos either
True. I think the V2 has a little bit of mythical status to it as well. I wonder how many Aerco's are truly out there? By the recent slew of V2's on ebay and other forums for sale I think alot more than I thought are used in studios and not just by tapers.
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It is the only compact transformer pre being made.
[/quote]
Don't forget the SD MixPre....
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Don't forget the SD MixPre....
Forgot about that one..
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i would say just the opposite (not as a pre choice but the availability) -
the aerco is a great pre but you can still get one custom made for the price a used V2 goes for if/when they come available
But isn't the v2 just a cheaper v3? And v3's aren't at all scarce. I don't recall any cases where the v2 was demonstrated to be any better than the v3. And on paper the v3's gain based trim design is superior to the v2's attenuation.
There is only one person who makes the aerco so it is subject to no longer being available at any time... It is the only compact transformer pre being made.
perhaps, but it seems the V2s are much more of a commodity around these parts when they go on sale - very possibly due to their reputation and simply being more well known -- then again you don't see many used aercos either
True. I think the V2 has a little bit of mythical status to it as well. I wonder how many Aerco's are truly out there? By the recent slew of V2's on ebay and other forums for sale I think alot more than I thought are used in studios and not just by tapers.
I've found A bunch of nature recorders use Aerco's & the SD mp-2.
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i would say just the opposite (not as a pre choice but the availability) -
the aerco is a great pre but you can still get one custom made for the price a used V2 goes for if/when they come available
But isn't the v2 just a cheaper v3? And v3's aren't at all scarce. I don't recall any cases where the v2 was demonstrated to be any better than the v3. And on paper the v3's gain based trim design is superior to the v2's attenuation.
There is only one person who makes the aerco so it is subject to no longer being available at any time... It is the only compact transformer pre being made.
perhaps, but it seems the V2s are much more of a commodity around these parts when they go on sale - very possibly due to their reputation and simply being more well known -- then again you don't see many used aercos either
Aerco smokes the V2 and V3. Been proven in comps. End of story. I'm stunned more folks haven't ordered an Aerco since those comps. They are built like a brick-sh*thouse and sounds fantastic. I'll never get rid of mine.
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i would say just the opposite (not as a pre choice but the availability) -
the aerco is a great pre but you can still get one custom made for the price a used V2 goes for if/when they come available
But isn't the v2 just a cheaper v3? And v3's aren't at all scarce. I don't recall any cases where the v2 was demonstrated to be any better than the v3. And on paper the v3's gain based trim design is superior to the v2's attenuation.
There is only one person who makes the aerco so it is subject to no longer being available at any time... It is the only compact transformer pre being made.
perhaps, but it seems the V2s are much more of a commodity around these parts when they go on sale - very possibly due to their reputation and simply being more well known -- then again you don't see many used aercos either
Aerco smokes the V2 and V3. Been proven in comps. End of story. I'm stunned more folks haven't ordered an Aerco since those comps. They are built like a brick-sh*thouse and sounds fantastic. I'll never get rid of mine.
And after listening to some more shows recorded with each, I think I'm sticking with the AERCO. The V3 price bottoming just had me gassing for the pretty lights, I guess.
Now I just need Jerry to finish it!
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I had a couple thoughts, for which I apologize if they were already addressed here and I missed it.
I agree with Mr. Chamkis on using rotary switches for stepped gain. To me the coarse gain steps are not a big deal versus the better tracking and reliability over pots. I'm comfortable with post processing, so with a reasonably quiet recording signal chain, normalizing to make up for 4 or 5 dB of "wasted" headroom is no biggie.
I also like the "stereo gain + balance" configuration, since a portable, two channel mic pre is usually going to be about stereo. Dialing in an offset during recording could be handy for several reasons, as discussed earlier in this thread. But it seems, for the same reasons that separate gain switches are not so useful, that the offset is not normally going to be huge. And a solid 0 position is very important.
So how about making the balance stepped as well? It seems you could use the same 6 position rotary switch used for the stepped gain. Using 5 of its positions, you could adjust the left/right difference to two different levels, say 3dB or 6dB, with a nice solid 0 position in the middle.
A 7 position switch would give 3 levels, and if that same switch were also used for gain could give 0-60dB instead of 0-50 (or whatever).
I wonder how soon Mr. Chamkis will wish we never heard of him? ::)
Peace,
Sanaka
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The MP-2 is on its way :) Will be here on Friday, and Friday night I'll take it for a spin.
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nice!
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nice!
I hope FedEx will leave it with my standard "please leave the package, signed and dated by me here" note. Should have had it shipped to work... I'd have it rerouted, but that's just asking for trouble.
Pics should be in order sometime this weekend. Not sure if anyone else has the phantom on/off switch.
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Congrats. I really need to pick one of these up at some point. It looks like Jerry has added some new pictures to his site (at least new since the last time I visited). Sweet looking device.
http://www.aerco.net/mp2photos.html
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I notice on his site that he says he "entertains custom electronic projects"...
perhaps a new AKG project helper ?
:)
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I notice on his site that he says he "entertains custom electronic projects"...
perhaps a new AKG project helper ?
:)
Oh, it's fun the let the mind wander a bit...
An Aerco/JKLabs-esque box customer tailored for the CKx caps. Actives + yummy transformer goodness...mmm.
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I notice on his site that he says he "entertains custom electronic projects"...
perhaps a new AKG project helper ?
:)
Definitely talk to him! Not sure what else is on his plate right now, but he's a bright guy who could be of some assistance. That would be cool for you AKG tapers!
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wouldnt it?
I've been getting a bug to try one of these preamps. I'm so enamored by my MMP still, and love its M-S features. I'd miss that terribly.
oh, and the output attenuation is the most brilliant thing ever.
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I hope FedEx will leave it with my standard "please leave the package, signed and dated by me here" note. Should have had it shipped to work... I'd have it rerouted, but that's just asking for trouble.
If you were in NC I would stop by and pick it up for you.... ;D
Todd
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wouldnt it?
I've been getting a bug to try one of these preamps. I'm so enamored by my MMP still, and love its M-S features. I'd miss that terribly.
oh, and the output attenuation is the most brilliant thing ever.
Do it!! You and Carl have been slackers all year. :P ;D
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wouldnt it?
I've been getting a bug to try one of these preamps. I'm so enamored by my MMP still, and love its M-S features. I'd miss that terribly.
oh, and the output attenuation is the most brilliant thing ever.
Do it!! You and Carl have been slackers all year. :P ;D
Carl almost got mine, but I saw the light.
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I know.
I can't remember the last time I ran the same gear for so long.
that Apogee has been in my bag for a year now. (tells you something, given my revolving door gear policy). the Korg too, but thats a no brainer.
I've only had 2 sets of mics...until this week when the P2 showed up.
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The AERCO is now waiting for me... 4.5 hours to go.
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Got the AERCO in yesterday - yeah! It seems to run pretty hot, or the Pelusos do anyway. I'll definitely need to pad the mics.
One odd thing I noticed: running a line level source from MP-2 > R-09 gives about 12dB more than line > R-09. Can someone else try something similar (recorder shouldn't matter) and see if your MP-2 does this?
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Got the AERCO in yesterday - yeah! It seems to run pretty hot, or the Pelusos do anyway. I'll definitely need to pad the mics.
One odd thing I noticed: running a line level source from MP-2 > R-09 gives about 12dB more than line > R-09. Can someone else try something similar (recorder shouldn't matter) and see if your MP-2 does this?
Line from what?
You shouldn't have to use a Pad in your chain when running Aerco > R09. That's why you have stepped gain. Just drop it down a notch.
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Line in, from any line level source (computer sound output is easiest).
Turns out mine uses new Jensen transformers, but Jerry forgot to change the resistors. Doh! So, it's back for the appropriate resistors.
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Turns out mine uses new Jensen transformers
Really? I wonder how much different yours sounds compared to the ones that have Reichenbach Transformers.I know Doug Oade uses Jensen Transformers in the m148's and they sound so good.
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Turns out mine uses new Jensen transformers
Really? I wonder how much different yours sounds compared to the ones that have Reichenbach Transformers.I know Doug Oade uses Jensen Transformers in the m148's and they sound so good.
Well, last night's show is in the kickdown section now. But, I'm not really using it as an AERCO reference. We were stuck in the back of the venue. The band played around 1 LD mic (except the bass player was off to the side), so stage lip would have smoked! And, it was my first time using the hyper caps for the Pelusos. The venue isn't an acoustic paradise either. Couple all that with the resistor issue as well.
Jerry says it's a new transformer for him, but he likes them better than the Reichenbachs.
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Didn't Jensen buy out Reichenbach a while back?
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The fixed AERCO is on its way back to me!
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Cool... plenty of time to have it for EFO!
Yup. You coming? I'm probably just going to do a SBD patch, but could be talked into bringing mics instead...
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I think Fred is going SBD > 722 anyway. Now I MUST bring my mics!
Back to your regular scheduled AERCO programming.
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The MP-2 came back to me yesterday. Everything checked out OK as far as gain stages go. I'll take some pictures of it sometime this weekend.
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Here are a couple pictures of my new pre:
Front view. Locking switch up = phantom power on.
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y80/bgalizio/Taperssection/DSCN0999.jpg)
Inside:
(http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y80/bgalizio/Taperssection/DSCN1002.jpg)
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+T on your new Aerco!! I'm sure Nick and Carl are drooling all over their keyboards right now. :P ;D
I dig the Phantom on/off switch. What is the right knob for? Mine is balances the left and right channels.
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+T on your new Aerco!! I'm sure Nick and Carl are drooling all over their keyboards right now. :P ;D
I dig the Phantom on/off switch. What is the right knob for? Mine is balances the left and right channels.
:) I chose the standard 0 - 50dB stepped gain (10dB step). So, each knob is for left/right gain selection.
The phantom switch is cool. It's locking, so you have to pull it out, then up/down to change it. It definitely won't be snagged accidentally.
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The phantom switch is cool. It's locking, so you have to pull it out, then up/down to change it. It definitely won't be snagged accidentally.
Nice! I was going to say to be careful and not accidentally catch something on that switch.
These are great little boxes and I almost ordered one just before you did I think. Should sound great with the Pelusos!
+T , enjoy it.
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While in an odd spot, I like the Peluso subcards > AERCO sound from this show. Seems very natural to me:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,92798.msg1235688.html
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While in an odd spot, I like the Peluso subcards > AERCO sound from this show. Seems very natural to me:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,92798.msg1235688.html
Plus T, very nice recording bro ;)
I have yet to ever run an Aerco MP-2. I would however buy one this winter/spring to run with my 480's/MBHO's. I think it would be a GREAT match with both the 480's and the MBHO's :) Thats one of the only preamps that we normally use, to run behind the 480's and in front of the 722. If I dont like the Aerco MP-2 or the E.A.A./Aeta PSP-2 in front of the 722 and behind teh 480's/MBHO's, then I guess I'm swearing off an external preamp to run in front of the 722 forever, because the Sonosax/V2/V3 didnt do it for me. I def ened a preamp with a touch of warmth like the Aerco MP-2/PSP-2. I wonder how the SD MP-2>722 would sound with my 480's and MBHO's ???
Anyway, not to ramble off topic too much, but your tape sounds nice. I did notice some channel static between the first and second song tho. Was that you adding gain on the MP-2 or the R-9 ??? It was def a bit rough sounding. I hope thatw asnt from adding gain on teh MP-2, because if it is, I may ahev him make me a fixed 20 or 25 or 30db gain one. I would prolly go with a +25db gain box because I could EASILY add teh gain with the 722. Actually, I take that back, I would p[rolly go witha FIXED +20db MP-2 so I would never ahve to worry about clipping the MP-2's preamps and overloading them. I could also EASILY add the rest of the gain from the 722. Maybe Doug was on to something when he made the 148's fixed at 20db. I bet that was the optimal gain so that you didnt have to worry about clipping the preamps since you couldnt lower the gain if needed since its a fixed 20db box, but you could also get ample gain with 20db, at least enough to get the signal NEAR line level so you could take care of the rest of the 'gain' with your preferred ADC. It all makes sense to me now ;)
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Thanks Bean. While it's definitely not the best recording I've ever made, it sounds just like what I heard from our odd side-stage location. That kind of transparancy is what I'm looking for! Listen to Eddie's Drumpire (drum solo) - nice natural drum sound there.
The channel static is noise from changing the stepped gain. It is well documented by Jerry and in this thread that changing the stepped gain will cause a very audible spike. I tried squashing it down a little, as it's pretty loud. Once I'm more familiar with this rig, I should be fine. Just need to know my venues and where to set the gain, then no need for any changes. This is the first pre I've had that has dB numbers on it!
Thinking out loud, a 20dB fixed AERCO would be pretty cool. You just might have enough room for the XLR outs too (which I know you like).
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I hope thatw asnt from adding gain on teh MP-2, because if it is, I may ahev him make me a fixed 20 or 25 or 30db gain one. I would prolly go with a +25db gain box because I could EASILY add teh gain with the 722. Actually, I take that back, I would p[rolly go witha FIXED +20db MP-2 so I would never ahve to worry about clipping the MP-2's preamps and overloading them. I could also EASILY add the rest of the gain from the 722. Maybe Doug was on to something when he made the 148's fixed at 20db.
Funny thing - if you don't turn the stepped gain knob, it doesn't make noise ;)
The variable gain version doesn't make noise (until the pots get worn and need replacement) but I prefer stepped pots. It generally isn't a problem... But if you've got a performer who comes off stage to do a no-PA encore, then you've got to add a bunch of gain. The step noise is very brief but it is pretty brutal. I try and do it between music and then just cut it out entirely and then smooth the gain change. During applause it isn't a big deal. Of course with the 7xx you can smoothly add up to 18dB of gain in line mode (24dB if you run at -6 like Moke), which is often more than enough. So in most cases changing the step gain isn't really necessary.
Eliminating the noise between steps is tough from a design standpoint without adding extra complexity..
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While in an odd spot, I like the Peluso subcards > AERCO sound from this show. Seems very natural to me:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,92798.msg1235688.html
Plus T, very nice recording bro ;)
I have yet to ever run an Aerco MP-2. I would however buy one this winter/spring to run with my 480's/MBHO's. I think it would be a GREAT match with both the 480's and the MBHO's :) Thats one of the only preamps that we normally use, to run behind the 480's and in front of the 722. If I dont like the Aerco MP-2 or the E.A.A./Aeta PSP-2 in front of the 722 and behind teh 480's/MBHO's, then I guess I'm swearing off an external preamp to run in front of the 722 forever, because the Sonosax/V2/V3 didnt do it for me. I def ened a preamp with a touch of warmth like the Aerco MP-2/PSP-2. I wonder how the SD MP-2>722 would sound with my 480's and MBHO's ???
Anyway, not to ramble off topic too much, but your tape sounds nice. I did notice some channel static between the first and second song tho. Was that you adding gain on the MP-2 or the R-9 ??? It was def a bit rough sounding. I hope thatw asnt from adding gain on teh MP-2, because if it is, I may ahev him make me a fixed 20 or 25 or 30db gain one. I would prolly go with a +25db gain box because I could EASILY add teh gain with the 722. Actually, I take that back, I would p[rolly go witha FIXED +20db MP-2 so I would never ahve to worry about clipping the MP-2's preamps and overloading them. I could also EASILY add the rest of the gain from the 722. Maybe Doug was on to something when he made the 148's fixed at 20db. I bet that was the optimal gain so that you didnt have to worry about clipping the preamps since you couldnt lower the gain if needed since its a fixed 20db box, but you could also get ample gain with 20db, at least enough to get the signal NEAR line level so you could take care of the rest of the 'gain' with your preferred ADC. It all makes sense to me now ;)
Dude, that's way too much babbling. And poor spelling, for that matter. Just man-up and buy one. If you don't like it, you can put it in the YS. ..... and it will resell in less than an hour. Make it happen!! 8)
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While in an odd spot, I like the Peluso subcards > AERCO sound from this show. Seems very natural to me:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,92798.msg1235688.html
Nice job Ben!!! Recording sounds great. ;D
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email sent
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Well, I FINALLY did it. I emailed Jerry just now about an XLR In AND Out version with a LOCKING or screwing connector ala the v3 for my external powering jack. I want one WITHOUT the 9v option too. Also, can you power them with 7.2v RC batts or do you HAVE to use 10-20VDC ??? I thought i saw a pic of his pictures on his website up close that said 7-20VDC on the external powering ??? I think Ive also comitted to stepped gain. If it would save space and I could have XLR In/Outs, I would take a fixed +20db version too. I think since I dont want the 9v battery option on mine, there MIGHT be enough space to put XLR Outputs on the back of the unit. Or he could use a bigger die cast box for mine. that woudl work too ;) As longa s mine has XLR Ins/Outs, and a LOCKING power connector, IM IN ;D If he cant do the XLR Outs, I'm still in, I'll just buy or get someone to make me some ULTRA HQ locking RCA Connectors ala the Audio Magic line and go locking RCA connectors>XLR!!!
I cant afford this until tax return time, but Ive made the commitment :) I DEF need a warmer preamp for the indoor venues I record in :)
I'm PSYCHED to hear back from him ;D Only a 5 month wait for me now :P
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Good stuff Bean! I think you'll like the AERCO. Should warm your hypers right up. The thing about the MP-2 is that it isn't quite as warm as a brick. I think it's a very transparent warmth, as it is a very detailed pre also.
Look at me using all those funny audiophile words :)
As an alternative, while the AERCO is pretty sweet, you could always get those MBHO subcard caps. May not be the best choice for the indoor PGH venues, though.
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Good stuff Bean! I think you'll like the AERCO. Should warm your hypers right up. The thing about the MP-2 is that it isn't quite as warm as a brick. I think it's a very transparent warmth, as it is a very detailed pre also.
Look at me using all those funny audiophile words :)
As an alternative, while the AERCO is pretty sweet, you could always get those MBHO subcard caps. May not be the best choice for the indoor PGH venues, though.
dop you think its warmer than the 722's preamps ??? thats all Im worried about...
Id LOVE to hear samples comparing those 2 preamps ;) Wanna loan me your Aerco for a show or two ???
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Good stuff Bean! I think you'll like the AERCO. Should warm your hypers right up. The thing about the MP-2 is that it isn't quite as warm as a brick. I think it's a very transparent warmth, as it is a very detailed pre also.
Look at me using all those funny audiophile words :)
As an alternative, while the AERCO is pretty sweet, you could always get those MBHO subcard caps. May not be the best choice for the indoor PGH venues, though.
dop you think its warmer than the 722's preamps ??? thats all Im worried about...
Id LOVE to hear samples comparing those 2 preamps ;) Wanna loan me your Aerco for a show or two ???
Dunno yet. I haven't owned a 7xx and haven't heard too many Peluso > 7xx recordings. I've only run the AERCO a few times now too, so it's all pretty new to me. We can probably work a loaner out sometime. Let me know when you have a couple of shows back to back.
According to the internal shot of my AERCO on page 12, it can take 7 - 20V external power. I use the 9V WalMart battery and it works just fine. Ask Jerry about it to be sure you'll get the full 48V phantom power. I thought about having him remove the internal 9V battery power, but figured he might as well put it in for resale value. I won't be powering it that way, but if I ever sell it the new owner might want that.
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Bean, just so you know, mine has XLR ins and outs. The outs are pigtailed out, about 3" from the body using Starquad cabling. Has the 9V's. Starts at a fixed gain of 20dB and is stepped up to 60dB. Sometimes, the 20dB is too much and I have to turn my 671 down to 3-4 to avoid clipping. But this is only for a few of the loudest shows I've done. I'd almost like one that starts at 0 or 10dB rather than 20dB.
Here is a recent show I did that came out pretty good. If I remember right, the AERCO was set at 20dB and my 671 was at 6-7.
http://www.archive.org/details/toubab2007-10-02.4022.flac16
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bglazio - curious as to why you don't use the internal batteries? Thanks
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bglazio - curious as to why you don't use the internal batteries? Thanks
A few reasons. I already had the WalMart battery and Kind Kables power cable from my previous UA-5 and then R-4. That cable is the correct size for the AERCO (polarity does not matter for the AERCO).
I don't have any 9V rechargables, and don't want to purchase new 9Vs every couple of shows (or worry about whether they are fresh enough).
Plus, it's easier not to have to open the case up.
I'm running open, not stealth, so the extra size of the WalMart battery works fine. I get all my gear in a nice little Lowepro Nova 4.
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Makes sense, I was confused. I was thinking the aerco ran like the m148, on internal rechargeables
thanks
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Bean, just so you know, mine has XLR ins and outs. The outs are pigtailed out, about 3" from the body using Starquad cabling. Has the 9V's. Starts at a fixed gain of 20dB and is stepped up to 60dB. Sometimes, the 20dB is too much and I have to turn my 671 down to 3-4 to avoid clipping. But this is only for a few of the loudest shows I've done. I'd almost like one that starts at 0 or 10dB rather than 20dB.
Here is a recent show I did that came out pretty good. If I remember right, the AERCO was set at 20dB and my 671 was at 6-7.
http://www.archive.org/details/toubab2007-10-02.4022.flac16
+T Thom, thanks alot for the info! Still waiting to hear back from Jerry!
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Makes sense, I was confused. I was thinking the aerco ran like the m148, on internal rechargeables
thanks
Tim,
Though I have not done it yet, I almost positive that the Aerco can run on 9V internal rechargeables. Right now, I run a 9.6V RC NIMH battery and, once in a while, 9V Walmart lithium battery to run the Aerco. There is a 9V rechargeable that has the equivalent mah of a duracell. Can't remember the name, unfortunately. Any hoot, the 9v's in a Aerco (3 of them) can be replaced by a 5 year old.... its that simple. ;)
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thanks, after I posted I started wondering about rechargeables. I guess it depends on the draw of the mics too
it's certainly a cool sounding little pre and it's so small and (relatively) affordable. Nice to see it getting more attention
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A couple more Peluso subcards > AERCO downloads. I'm liking this pre quite a bit:
Tim O'Brien (solo):
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=170654
Mountain Heart (group):
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=170744
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Anyone running Aerco MP-2 > MR-1? Seems like a perfect low profile match....also curious of opinions on the aerco MP-2 w/ Neumanns.....
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Anyone running Aerco MP-2 > MR-1? Seems like a perfect low profile match....also curious of opinions on the aerco MP-2 w/ Neumanns.....
Why would you want to pair such a high quality pre with low quality neumann mics? ;D
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Makes sense, I was confused. I was thinking the aerco ran like the m148, on internal rechargeables
thanks
Tim,
Though I have not done it yet, I almost positive that the Aerco can run on 9V internal rechargeables. Right now, I run a 9.6V RC NIMH battery and, once in a while, 9V Walmart lithium battery to run the Aerco. There is a 9V rechargeable that has the equivalent mah of a duracell. Can't remember the name, unfortunately. Any hoot, the 9v's in a Aerco (3 of them) can be replaced by a 5 year old.... its that simple. ;)
Are these similar to the batteries you're using?
http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/ipower-96-volt-230mah-batterybrrechargeable-instant-burst-nickel-metal-hydridebrreplaces-disposable-9-volt-batteriesbr-p-843.html?SP_id=&osCsid=t4jt3rqq91kb1ppm6rct7m0er2
Do you have a feel for what the run time is on rechargeables in the field?
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Nope. Its the Ipower 9V Lithiums 500 mah
http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/ipower-9-volt-500mah-lithium-polymer-rechargeable-batteriesbr9v-lithium-rechargeablebrone-9v-rechargeable-battery-p-548.html?SP_id=&osCsid=t4jt3rqq91kb1ppm6rct7m0er2
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Nope. Its the Ipower 9V Lithiums 500 mah
http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/ipower-9-volt-500mah-lithium-polymer-rechargeable-batteriesbr9v-lithium-rechargeablebrone-9v-rechargeable-battery-p-548.html?SP_id=&osCsid=t4jt3rqq91kb1ppm6rct7m0er2
Run time? I'm assuming it's good for an opener plus main act?
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Anyone found a discharge curve for those? The ipower site appears broken. They're pretty pricey ($15 each + charger) so it would be a bummer to find out the hard way..
For the aerco, voltage will be more important than maH capacity.
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Anyone found a discharge curve for those? The ipower site appears broken. They're pretty pricey ($15 each + charger) so it would be a bummer to find out the hard way..
For the aerco, voltage will be more important than maH capacity.
That's why I was wondering about the 9.6 V NiMH... then again some mics don't need the full 48 V phantom power (wide tolerances)
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Nope. Its the Ipower 9V Lithiums 500 mah
http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/ipower-9-volt-500mah-lithium-polymer-rechargeable-batteriesbr9v-lithium-rechargeablebrone-9v-rechargeable-battery-p-548.html?SP_id=&osCsid=t4jt3rqq91kb1ppm6rct7m0er2
Run time? I'm assuming it's good for an opener plus main act?
I haven't used them yet. Been using an external 9.6 RC battery. If they are a pure 9 volt, they should do the job.
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Ah ok... Sorry, I misread you're initial post.
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What kind of runtimes do yinz get with (3) fresh 9 volt Energizer 2's or any fresh 9 volt alkalines for that matter, including cheapies ??? I am getting CRAZY runtimes with (3) fresh Energizer 9 volt Alkalines.......I have just hit the 17 hour mark running my MBHO KA500 HN Hypers on a DINa KwonBar into my MBHO 603 A active bodies into the Aerco MP-2, and then into Canare XLR>RCA Cables, and into my SD 722 Line-In and running gain on the Aerco at MAX at +50db. I am running XLR in and RCA Outs obviously.
Does that type of runtime seem normal? That seems like an awful LONG time with just 3 x 9v's. If this is normal with 3 fresh 9v's, then I'd love someone to verify that they get extended runtimes like that too with just 3 x 9v's......That would also make me feel ALOT safer come NYE when I need the Aerco to keep on running the WHOLE time both shows. I wish In would have known that it would run that long with just 3 x 9v's.....I bought 10 x Energizer 9 volt batteries, and planned on running the first 3 batts to test how long teh Aerco could/would run with 3 9v's.....I originally planned on switching the 3 batts out after the 30th, just in case the batteries were low. I DID NOT want them running out on me on NYE. Thats why I bought 3 9v's for each niote of music.
I swear I recall someone saying that they only got like 5-6 hrs MAX on a regular basis running 3 x 9 volts in this sucka ??? Guess I was wrong, because I wouldnt doubt if this thing went another 3 hrs at least and I ended up getting 20hrs from just 3 x 9v's ;D
Anyway, if anyone could chime in and let me know how much runtime they get with 3 x 9 volt Alkaline batteries, and also what type of microphones they are using when testing their runtimes since mics differ in current consumption. I know the 480's suck up 2ma of current, compared to 414's, which suck up 4ma. I believe my MBHO's suck up 4.5ma, and I think Schoeps are rated at 4ma.....
Thanks in advance, and Happy Holidays, especially to anyone that can help me out ;D
Bean
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What kind of runtimes do yinz get with (3) fresh 9 volt Energizer 2's or any fresh 9 volt alkalines for that matter, including cheapies ??? I am getting CRAZY runtimes with (3) fresh Energizer 9 volt Alkalines.......I have just hit the 17 hour mark running my MBHO KA500 HN Hypers on a DINa KwonBar into my MBHO 603 A active bodies into the Aerco MP-2, and then into Canare XLR>RCA Cables, and into my SD 722 Line-In and running gain on the Aerco at MAX at +50db. I am running XLR in and RCA Outs obviously.
Does that type of runtime seem normal? That seems like an awful LONG time with just 3 x 9v's. If this is normal with 3 fresh 9v's, then I'd love someone to verify that they get extended runtimes like that too with just 3 x 9v's......That would also make me feel ALOT safer come NYE when I need the Aerco to keep on running the WHOLE time both shows. I wish In would have known that it would run that long with just 3 x 9v's.....I bought 10 x Energizer 9 volt batteries, and planned on running the first 3 batts to test how long teh Aerco could/would run with 3 9v's.....I originally planned on switching the 3 batts out after the 30th, just in case the batteries were low. I DID NOT want them running out on me on NYE. Thats why I bought 3 9v's for each niote of music.
I swear I recall someone saying that they only got like 5-6 hrs MAX on a regular basis running 3 x 9 volts in this sucka ??? Guess I was wrong, because I wouldnt doubt if this thing went another 3 hrs at least and I ended up getting 20hrs from just 3 x 9v's ;D
Anyway, if anyone could chime in and let me know how much runtime they get with 3 x 9 volt Alkaline batteries, and also what type of microphones they are using when testing their runtimes since mics differ in current consumption. I know the 480's suck up 2ma of current, compared to 414's, which suck up 4ma. I believe my MBHO's suck up 4.5ma, and I think Schoeps are rated at 4ma.....
Thanks in advance, and Happy Holidays, especially to anyone that can help me out ;D
Bean
Hey Bean-
When did you get the Aerco box? Congrats! ;D
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Bean,
I always use a L-ion with mine, but used 9v batteries with an older one my friend owned in the past. With his, we would get ~ 2-3 Phish shows between battery changes (so ~ 12-15 hours of runtime with actual 'on-time') running AKG c568eb mics.
For an open show, why not use a L-ion?
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Thanks guys, My Aerco is borrowed at this moment
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Thanks guys, My Aerco is borrowed at this moment
permanently? >:D
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What kind of runtimes do yinz get with (3) fresh 9 volt Energizer 2's or any fresh 9 volt alkalines for that matter, including cheapies ??? I am getting CRAZY runtimes with (3) fresh Energizer 9 volt Alkalines.......I have just hit the 17 hour mark running my MBHO KA500 HN Hypers on a DINa KwonBar into my MBHO 603 A active bodies into the Aerco MP-2, and then into Canare XLR>RCA Cables, and into my SD 722 Line-In and running gain on the Aerco at MAX at +50db. I am running XLR in and RCA Outs obviously.
Does that type of runtime seem normal? That seems like an awful LONG time with just 3 x 9v's. If this is normal with 3 fresh 9v's, then I'd love someone to verify that they get extended runtimes like that too with just 3 x 9v's......That would also make me feel ALOT safer come NYE when I need the Aerco to keep on running the WHOLE time both shows. I wish In would have known that it would run that long with just 3 x 9v's.....I bought 10 x Energizer 9 volt batteries, and planned on running the first 3 batts to test how long teh Aerco could/would run with 3 9v's.....I originally planned on switching the 3 batts out after the 30th, just in case the batteries were low. I DID NOT want them running out on me on NYE. Thats why I bought 3 9v's for each niote of music.
I swear I recall someone saying that they only got like 5-6 hrs MAX on a regular basis running 3 x 9 volts in this sucka ??? Guess I was wrong, because I wouldnt doubt if this thing went another 3 hrs at least and I ended up getting 20hrs from just 3 x 9v's ;D
Anyway, if anyone could chime in and let me know how much runtime they get with 3 x 9 volt Alkaline batteries, and also what type of microphones they are using when testing their runtimes since mics differ in current consumption. I know the 480's suck up 2ma of current, compared to 414's, which suck up 4ma. I believe my MBHO's suck up 4.5ma, and I think Schoeps are rated at 4ma.....
Thanks in advance, and Happy Holidays, especially to anyone that can help me out ;D
Bean
I usually run mine off of a Energizer 4500 mah NiHM rechargable battery, with the (3) 9V for backup and it ran an entire weekend festi without losing power at Hunter Mtn. It'll only kick into the (3) 9V once the other NiHM runs out, so you should be good Bean. Question, you said you run your aerco at max eh? I've been running mine at close to that (around 3 o'clock on the dial which is about +40db) and I was wondering if something was wrong with my having to set it that high. Can you confirm again what you usually run at? I just want to make sure i'm understanding you correctly.
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Here's a copy of the aerco specs that Jerry Chamkis sent me directly. I had mine built with a balance knob instead of two independent gain adjusts.
The MP-2 has 48 volt DIN standard phantom power and is available in 2 gain
ranges, 0-50 and 20-70 dB. It costs $750 for a 2 channel unit. It's a
sturdy die cast metal case, about 4.7 x 3.8 x 1.3 inches. It's main claim to
fame is that it uses Reichenbach transformers so it's flat from about 7 Hz to
60 KHz and has extreme RF immunity. Distortion is .01% at -20 dBM input level
and noise is right at the theoretical minimum of -127 dB. Input is gold
Neutrik XLR and output is RCA. It has independent gain adjusts for each
channel on front panel knobs that are switched resistors, not pots as there's
no such thing as reliable little ones. 6 steps, typically 10 dB steps but
you can specify any steps you prefer in that range. (They're built to order,
typically 4 - 6 weeks). It holds 3 nine volt batteries internally- with a
high current mic they'll last about 12 hours continuous, longer intermittent.
With a self-powered mic, about 40 hours continuous. You can also feed
external 12 volts, any polarity any ground (totally isolated). The warranty
is 2 years parts, forever workmanship. If you found it on the web you
probably already know there are some fanatical users- Steve Feld and Gordon
Hempton I think have comments posted about it. Mickey Hart has one, NASA and
(formerly) Bell Labs have a couple each and several of the film studios have
them from back when Audio Services was a distributor in L.A. Quite a few
stealth tapers too.
If you have any other questions, I'll be glad to answer them.
Cheers-
>
> Jerry Chamkis
> <jchamkis@bga.com
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What kind of runtimes do yinz get with (3) fresh 9 volt Energizer 2's or any fresh 9 volt alkalines for that matter, including cheapies ??? I am getting CRAZY runtimes with (3) fresh Energizer 9 volt Alkalines.......I have just hit the 17 hour mark running my MBHO KA500 HN Hypers on a DINa KwonBar into my MBHO 603 A active bodies into the Aerco MP-2, and then into Canare XLR>RCA Cables, and into my SD 722 Line-In and running gain on the Aerco at MAX at +50db. I am running XLR in and RCA Outs obviously.
Does that type of runtime seem normal? That seems like an awful LONG time with just 3 x 9v's. If this is normal with 3 fresh 9v's, then I'd love someone to verify that they get extended runtimes like that too with just 3 x 9v's......That would also make me feel ALOT safer come NYE when I need the Aerco to keep on running the WHOLE time both shows. I wish In would have known that it would run that long with just 3 x 9v's.....I bought 10 x Energizer 9 volt batteries, and planned on running the first 3 batts to test how long teh Aerco could/would run with 3 9v's.....I originally planned on switching the 3 batts out after the 30th, just in case the batteries were low. I DID NOT want them running out on me on NYE. Thats why I bought 3 9v's for each niote of music.
I swear I recall someone saying that they only got like 5-6 hrs MAX on a regular basis running 3 x 9 volts in this sucka ??? Guess I was wrong, because I wouldnt doubt if this thing went another 3 hrs at least and I ended up getting 20hrs from just 3 x 9v's ;D
Anyway, if anyone could chime in and let me know how much runtime they get with 3 x 9 volt Alkaline batteries, and also what type of microphones they are using when testing their runtimes since mics differ in current consumption. I know the 480's suck up 2ma of current, compared to 414's, which suck up 4ma. I believe my MBHO's suck up 4.5ma, and I think Schoeps are rated at 4ma.....
Thanks in advance, and Happy Holidays, especially to anyone that can help me out ;D
Bean
I usually run mine off of a Energizer 4500 mah NiHM rechargable battery, with the (3) 9V for backup and it ran an entire weekend festi without losing power at Hunter Mtn. It'll only kick into the (3) 9V once the other NiHM runs out, so you should be good Bean. Question, you said you run your aerco at max eh? I've been running mine at close to that (around 3 o'clock on the dial which is about +40db) and I was wondering if something was wrong with my having to set it that high. Can you confirm again what you usually run at? I just want to make sure i'm understanding you correctly.
I was just running realistic levels from the tv, thats why mine was at max. I have no clue where it'll be for the RAQ NYE run yet ;D
Thanks for the info guys ;D Mine finally started to lose power in one channel after about 20+ hrs ;D Id say I coudl SAFELY run it for 16-18 hrs ;D
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Walmart 9V lithium is the way to go. It runs the Aerco for weeks, it seems. Ran the lithium solely for Mountain Jam this past summer, recorded the entire schedule of the first day, and only dropped 2 lamps.
I never run 9V's internally ..... except when I'm :turnevil:
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what's the best way to contact Jerry, phone or email?
thanks :)
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what's the best way to contact Jerry, phone or email?
thanks :)
I've always gotten a quick response from Jerry via email.
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I was just running realistic levels from the tv, thats why mine was at max. I have no clue where it'll be for the RAQ NYE run yet ;D
It is important to consider that the phantom voltage will decrease as the voltage from the batteries drops. With fresh batteries my memory says it is around 52 volts (but that is unloaded).
So I'd consider the potential for low phantom voltage related distortion before the gain stage stops outputting a signal. I'm sure it depends on the mics but testing at low SPLs in the home may not give the whole story.
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So Bean, how do you like the AERCO you borrowed?
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I was just running realistic levels from the tv, thats why mine was at max. I have no clue where it'll be for the RAQ NYE run yet ;D
It is important to consider that the phantom voltage will decrease as the voltage from the batteries drops. With fresh batteries my memory says it is around 52 volts (but that is unloaded).
So I'd consider the potential for low phantom voltage related distortion before the gain stage stops outputting a signal. I'm sure it depends on the mics but testing at low SPLs in the home may not give the whole story.
Yeah, I thought that would be a possibility. I use the three internal 9V's as a backup if the external runs low. Jerry said there would be a switchover to internal power if the external voltage reached a minimum allowable limit.
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Well, I'm on board. Ordered an Aerco a few days ago, so now I get to play the waiting game. It's OK though. Good quality is worth the wait.
FWIW, Jerry's up to a 2 month backlog or lead time.
After reading through this entire thread a couple times, I considered a couple options...
First I thought about going with the stereo master level and balance control, but those are pots and that kinda defeats the purpose of staying away from pots and keeping the box the highest build quality possible, so I opted for switches...0 - 50 db of course. Besides, going with pots eliminates the 1/8 connector and while that's probably not a big deal, it is a 'nice to have'.
Then I thought about going Beans favored route of eliminating the internal batteries in favor of some XLR outs, but decided it's not a big deal to use external RCA > XLR cables.
Finally, thought about asking for locking power connector, but decided that keeping it simple (and thus keeping my options open for maximum compatibility with external power connectors/cables) would be a better option for me.
So, in the end, I just ended up ordering the stock model with no mods whatsoever.
My decisions also considered keeping the box generic in case of the need for resale. Frankly, I don't see that happening though. I think the Aerco will be a REALLY nice partner with my new Neumann 140's. Might even make the AK50's sound better...without a doubt it would fatten them up a little.
Anyhow, now it's hang loose and look forward to getting it!
Take it easy, gang.
Steve
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Well, I'm on board. Ordered an Aerco a few days ago, so now I get to play the waiting game. It's OK though. Good quality is worth the wait.
FWIW, Jerry's up to a 2 month backlog or lead time.
2 months Jerry time probably means it may be done by the end of July. If you're lucky. :P
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FWIW, Jerry's up to a 2 month backlog or lead time.
2 months Jerry time probably means it may be done by the end of July. If you're lucky. :P
Whatever...the thread title says 1 month and he told me 2 months, so I was just trying to give a little feedback. I guess it will be whatever it will be.
Realistically speaking though, people that are considering ordering need to realize that this is NOT his occupation, but a hobby so life comes first.
High quality at low cost is worth the wait. Oade's pre-amps cost double what the Aerco costs.
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2 months Jerry time probably means it may be done by the end of July. If you're lucky. :P
Whatever...the thread title says 1 month and he told me 2 months, so I was just trying to give a little feedback. I guess it will be whatever it will be.
Realistically speaking though, people that are considering ordering need to realize that this is NOT his occupation, but a hobby so life comes first.
High quality at low cost is worth the wait. Oade's pre-amps cost double what the Aerco costs.
I think you take my comments too seriously - it's Friday night and I'm tracking out shows beer in hand. I have heard there have been some long waits from sending in cash to receiving the pre.
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2 months Jerry time probably means it may be done by the end of July. If you're lucky. :P
Whatever...the thread title says 1 month and he told me 2 months, so I was just trying to give a little feedback. I guess it will be whatever it will be.
Realistically speaking though, people that are considering ordering need to realize that this is NOT his occupation, but a hobby so life comes first.
High quality at low cost is worth the wait. Oade's pre-amps cost double what the Aerco costs.
I think you take my comments too seriously - it's Friday night and I'm tracking out shows beer in hand. I have heard there have been some long waits from sending in cash to receiving the pre.
I know. I was just responding for the sake of Jerry since this thread seems to be a pseudo official 'everything you wanted to know about the Aerco' thread.
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Congrats! You'll enjoy it!
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Yeah, Jerry teaches at a school for the deaf, so this is just a side job he does for his enjoyment. I just sent in mine for some work with the hope of getting it back before festival season.
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Jerry seems to be an interesting guy - I have emailed him quite a bit. It would be a bit more helpful if he could be more realistic about timing. My rule of thumb is estimate how long it will take to do something and then double it.... I would probably apply this to anything Jerry says.
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If you're gonna order one, now is the best time. Have it in time for the Spring tours. ;)
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Learned something new tonight: Run the Aerco wide open. Gets it over line level for all the little recorders. White Noise virtually disappears when run this way.
Can I get a do-over for '07? Gosh that year sucked. :banging head:
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Can I get a do-over for '07? Gosh that year sucked. :banging head:
Yes it did, and I never want to do it over :-X
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Learned something new tonight: Run the Aerco wide open. Gets it over line level for all the little recorders. White Noise virtually disappears when run this way.
Can I get a do-over for '07? Gosh that year sucked. :banging head:
Confused... do you mean run at 0 db gain?
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Learned something new tonight: Run the Aerco wide open. Gets it over line level for all the little recorders. White Noise virtually disappears when run this way.
Can I get a do-over for '07? Gosh that year sucked. :banging head:
Confused... do you mean run at 0 db gain?
Wide open.. Hmm... Maybe he's running it with the cover off :P
Nice! :laugh:
Mine actually doesn't have stickers on it. So I don't really know what I'm running at. My guess is I've been wagging the dog: setting the R09 to unity, then adjust the Aerco accordingly.
My tests have proved that's incorrect. Aerco needs to be cranked up to get over line-level in the R09. If not, you can definitely hear audible hiss in the recording. I found this to be true by cranking the Aerco all the way and just recording the room. I was testing out different recorders at the time. By upping the gain until hiss diminishes to nil, one would then adjust the R09 for the incoming signal to get proper levels. Hence, dog (Aerco) wags tail (R09).
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That's still kinda confusing. I mostly run my aerco with a 722 and only rarely with the r09. I tend to run the 722 gain at 0 dB, just as I do when running any pre-amp with it (v3, bg1). A 722 at 0 will take a pretty hot signal (about -19dBFS, I think), a fair bit hotter than an r09 at 8, I think.
So what trim setting have you been running the r09 at (before and now)? In the "what is unity?" threads I've repeatedly asked "what sounds best?", hoping to generate some interest in determining that. But folks seemed more focused on a nebulous unity number. I tend to run the r09 at setting 8. Going much below that causes bass distortion in my bench testing.
Maybe with your serial number Jerry could tell you what gain each detent should be? I have a 0-50 model so it is 0, 10, 20, etc.
I run the gain on the aerco at pretty much the same setting I'd use with a v3, etc. Though the output from the aerco is a bit lower than a v3 because of the unbalanced outputs vs. balanced. On the 722 I tend to strive for peaks of about -12dBFS to -8dBFS. I typically need to add about 6 to 8dB in post to bring the peaks up to 0.
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... so what level have you been running the R-09 at?
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I bought mine from musicsherlock (Christian) Its on page 3 of this thread.
My Aerco has a gain scheme of 0 12 24 30 36 42. I've been running it at 12-24, which proves to amplify white noise in my R09. R09 is set at 8. When I set the Aerco at 36, hiss goes away. (shrugs) :-\
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,56579.30.html
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I bought mine from musicsherlock (Christian) Its on page 3 of this thread.
My Aerco has a gain scheme of 0 12 24 30 36 42. I've been running it at 24-30, which proves to amplify white noise in my R09. R09 is set at 8. When I set the Aerco at 36, hiss goes away. (shrugs) :-\
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,56579.30.html
Weird. Any idea why?
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None. Been thinking of sending it in to Jerry for a once over. Might do it in the middle of March, in hopes it comes back for Allman NYC run.
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Seems like it might be useful to do a recording with your aerco>r09 (without mics) where you start at min gain on the aerco and click up the gain range... and then analyze the s/n to see if any settings are troublesome. And maybe another recording where you increase the gain on the r09 to make sure the noise builds fairly linearly as gain is added. You could try doing it without mics or maybe with a resistor load.
In the gain ranges you've mentioned your aerco should be really quiet.. The only thing that should cause noise is adding too much gain in the r09 (unless something is not working right). I did some tests a long while ago and my aerco is about as quiet as the v3.
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Just got an email from Jerry today. Said he'd have mine fixed on Feb. 4th as he has the day off then. I've noticed that I had to run my gain high with the R-09 also, about +40 db to +45db to get decent levels on the R-09. This was before I sent it into Jerry. I also had probs with the balance control not working, so we'll see what I get with both issues once I get it back. I'll be using it for Levon Helm Band (former singer/drummer of The Band) on Mar. 1st, so we'll see how it goes.
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Just got an email from Jerry today. Said he'd have mine fixed on Feb. 4th as he has the day off then. I've noticed that I had to run my gain high with the R-09 also, about +40 db to +45db to get decent levels on the R-09. This was before I sent it into Jerry. I also had probs with the balance control not working, so we'll see what I get with both issues once I get it back. I'll be using it for Levon Helm Band (former singer/drummer of The Band) on Mar. 1st, so we'll see how it goes.
I wonder what Jerry will manage to get done that day. He said he'd be finishing mine as well (on order since September).
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Well hopefully he can do both. Mine is just a repair as opposed to a full build. I'd also hope that he has some of yours done by now at least. September until Feb is a long time to wait, so I do understand your frustration. I had ordered mine on Mar. 17 St. Patricks day last year, I received it through much coercion the Thursday before I was to leave for Mtn Jam the last weekend in May. Long waits seem to be par for the course when dealing with these units, but your wait seems exceptionally long I must admit. Jerry works as a teacher in a school for the deaf so he doesn't get to work on them full time as would be the case in most situations I can say that. I hope you get yours soon because they are great pre-amps.
+T for your patience. ;)
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Did you guys have to pre pay for these?
I was thinking of ordering one, but if I have to prepay and wait a year I guess I might not.
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Well hopefully he can do both. Mine is just a repair as opposed to a full build. I'd also hope that he has some of yours done by now at least. September until Feb is a long time to wait, so I do understand your frustration. I had ordered mine on Mar. 17 St. Patricks day last year, I received it through much coercion the Thursday before I was to leave for Mtn Jam the last weekend in May. Long waits seem to be par for the course when dealing with these units, but your wait seems exceptionally long I must admit. Jerry works as a teacher in a school for the deaf so he doesn't get to work on them full time as would be the case in most situations I can say that. I hope you get yours soon because they are great pre-amps.
+T for your patience. ;)
Hey guys - I know all about what Jerry does, etc. We're all busy, I know, because I work a real job as well and have a couple hobbies/volunteer efforts on the side. I have a message from Jerry saying he will complete it this weekend. If it's not complete, and someone else's gets serviced, well that's reason to be upset and disappointed.
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Did you guys have to pre pay for these?
I was thinking of ordering one, but if I have to prepay and wait a year I guess I might not.
Prepay. It might be okay if you order these towards the end of the school year (May in TX?). I would guess that Jerry is more available to build these in the summer.
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Did you guys have to pre pay for these?
I was thinking of ordering one, but if I have to prepay and wait a year I guess I might not.
Prepay. It might be okay if you order these towards the end of the school year (May in TX?). I would guess that Jerry is more available to build these in the summer.
Probably why mine was done in a ~2 month time frame (August 2, 2007 to Sept. 20, 2007).
Sucks that you guys have to wait so long, but it really is an excellent pre. I had buyers remorse more than a few times while I was waiting, but it was all worth it in the end.
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Seems like it might be useful to do a recording with your aerco>r09 (without mics) where you start at min gain on the aerco and click up the gain range... and then analyze the s/n to see if any settings are troublesome. And maybe another recording where you increase the gain on the r09 to make sure the noise builds fairly linearly as gain is added. You could try doing it without mics or maybe with a resistor load.
In the gain ranges you've mentioned your aerco should be really quiet.. The only thing that should cause noise is adding too much gain in the r09 (unless something is not working right). I did some tests a long while ago and my aerco is about as quiet as the v3.
My bad. I just checked and I've been actually running gain mostly at 12, once in a while 24. That's what happens when you don't have markings to go by.
Taping tonight. Will set the Aerco at 30 and adjust R09 accordingly. As for the 30 setting, I checked out a show I did this fall, Mule 10/07/07 Schenectady where I ran the Nak 1000's out front. Had the Aerco set at 30, and by gosh it was the best recording I made last year. I hate discovering crap like this......... :-[
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If the thunder don't get ya, ........
the lightning will! ;D
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Well hopefully he can do both. Mine is just a repair as opposed to a full build. I'd also hope that he has some of yours done by now at least. September until Feb is a long time to wait, so I do understand your frustration. I had ordered mine on Mar. 17 St. Patricks day last year, I received it through much coercion the Thursday before I was to leave for Mtn Jam the last weekend in May. Long waits seem to be par for the course when dealing with these units, but your wait seems exceptionally long I must admit. Jerry works as a teacher in a school for the deaf so he doesn't get to work on them full time as would be the case in most situations I can say that. I hope you get yours soon because they are great pre-amps.
+T for your patience. ;)
Hey guys - I know all about what Jerry does, etc. We're all busy, I know, because I work a real job as well and have a couple hobbies/volunteer efforts on the side. I have a message from Jerry saying he will complete it this weekend. If it's not complete, and someone else's gets serviced, well that's reason to be upset and disappointed.
I hope you do get your unit. I told Jerry that I don't need mine until Mar. 1st and if I get it before then I will be happy, so servicing my unit should not get in the way of completing yours. ;)
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Well hopefully he can do both. Mine is just a repair as opposed to a full build. I'd also hope that he has some of yours done by now at least. September until Feb is a long time to wait, so I do understand your frustration. I had ordered mine on Mar. 17 St. Patricks day last year, I received it through much coercion the Thursday before I was to leave for Mtn Jam the last weekend in May. Long waits seem to be par for the course when dealing with these units, but your wait seems exceptionally long I must admit. Jerry works as a teacher in a school for the deaf so he doesn't get to work on them full time as would be the case in most situations I can say that. I hope you get yours soon because they are great pre-amps.
+T for your patience. ;)
Hey guys - I know all about what Jerry does, etc. We're all busy, I know, because I work a real job as well and have a couple hobbies/volunteer efforts on the side. I have a message from Jerry saying he will complete it this weekend. If it's not complete, and someone else's gets serviced, well that's reason to be upset and disappointed.
I hope you do get your unit. I told Jerry that I don't need mine until Mar. 1st and if I get it before then I will be happy, so servicing my unit should not get in the way of completing yours. ;)
Hey - I just wanted to make it clear - I'm not mad or upset at anyone on this list. I hope all the other people who sent money or gear for service get what they need in a timely manner. I guess the lesson is to push Jerry for a reasonable timeframe when you order. Sorry if I brought too much negative energy in here.
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I would generally hope that repairs of existing units would take priority over building new units for new customers, fwiw..
As far as pushing him for deadlines... That's a big reason why I don't build stuff for folks. Too much pressure and hassle for not much money (when you figure out the $$/hour). And then if you want to disappear for 6 weeks on vacation.....
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I would generally hope that repairs of existing units would take priority over building new units for new customers, fwiw..
In a normal case, I would agree. If you promise someone it will be done, priorities should probably be rearranged. I have experience in this with my job...
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I understand your frustration and I don't have a problem with what you said in this instance, fwiw. Normally I would agree with Freelunch regarding servicing existing units over new sales, but seeing that you've waited so long and the fact that I don't necessarily need mine for another month, I have no problem stepping back for a fellow taper. Good luck. :)
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I understand your frustration and I don't have a problem with what you said in this instance, fwiw. Normally I would agree with Freelunch regarding servicing existing units over new sales, but seeing that you've waited so long and the fact that I don't necessarily need mine for another month, I have no problem stepping back for a fellow taper. Good luck. :)
I think I'm just going to keep quiet... Fingers crossed that everything works out.
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I understand your frustration and I don't have a problem with what you said in this instance, fwiw. Normally I would agree with Freelunch regarding servicing existing units over new sales, but seeing that you've waited so long and the fact that I don't necessarily need mine for another month, I have no problem stepping back for a fellow taper. Good luck. :)
I think I'm just going to keep quiet... Fingers crossed that everything works out.
;)
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Last night's recording was successful. Hiss inaudible at 30. The Aerco certainly dominates to a point where a microphone's characteristics are on display strictly as "flavoring".
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Just thinking out lout here...
I don't see any reason why the RCA's & the 1/8" stereo outputs couldn't be used at the same time. Anyone tried or confirmed this?
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I don't see any reason why the RCA's & the 1/8" stereo outputs couldn't be used at the same time. Anyone tried or confirmed this?
Yep, it is handy... rca > 722 and 1/8 to r09.
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I don't see any reason why the RCA's & the 1/8" stereo outputs couldn't be used at the same time. Anyone tried or confirmed this?
Yep, it is handy... rca > 722 and 1/8 to r09.
Awesome. Thanks for the quick response. Not like I can do anything with the info. Don't have mine in hand....yet. >:D
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I don't see any reason why the RCA's & the 1/8" stereo outputs couldn't be used at the same time. Anyone tried or confirmed this?
Yep, it is handy... rca > 722 and 1/8 to r09.
Awesome. Thanks for the quick response. Not like I can do anything with the info. Don't have mine in hand....yet. >:D
Double check when you receive yours: on mine, the polarity of the 1/8" mini output is inverted vis-a-vis the RCA outs.
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Damn these Aerco tapes are sweet. I put a lot of pressure on Jerry to get it down for SXSW. Picked it up at noon on Thursday - ran about 14 hours of music in 3 days.
:o
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I am still borrowing a broken XLR input Aerco MP2. I need to get that sucker fixed ASAP so I can put it to good use before I ship it back to Hawaii :) I bet it SMOKES w/ my MBHO's :) I borrowed mine for the RAQ NYE run and the XLR input broke before the opening band on 12/30, so needless to say, I didnt get to use it for one second of music :'(
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I am still borrowing a broken XLR input Aerco MP2. I need to get that sucker fixed ASAP so I can put it to good use before I ship it back to Hawaii :) I bet it SMOKES w/ my MBHO's :) I borrowed mine for the RAQ NYE run and the XLR input broke before the opening band on 12/30, so needless to say, I didnt get to use it for one second of music :'(
That sucks... I'm liking mine so far. I tracked out a couple "popular" acts. Don't know when I'll get to the up and coming artists I taped.
Duffy @ The Parish
http://www.thetradersden.org/forums/showthread.php?t=55195
N.E.R.D. @ Stubb's
http://www.thetradersden.org/forums/showthread.php?t=55199
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Cogito Aerco Sum.
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Cogito Aerco Sum.
+T ;D
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semper ubi sub ubi
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semper ubi sub ubi
... obviously to prevent damage to the aerco in lo-pro situations, :)
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Well... My 722 is gone so I'm on the r09... I ran split mk21's stage lip/on stage last night, mk21 > aerco > r09. This band is typically very loud up front. I ended up running the aerco at 0dB gain and the r09 at trim setting 8. Final peaks were -4.8dB. For anyone considering an aerco with a min gain of +20dB, this might be something to keep in mind.
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Anyone do battery duration tests for the Aerco MP2? I'm thinking I probably need to.. I usually do about 8 hours before replacing the alkaline (usually running at +12 or +18 on the Aerco with DPA 4023/4021). I just ordered some rechargeables. Of course I wake up this morning and realized I odered batteries that have a nominal charged 8.4 V. oops... There are some 9.6 v rechargeables out there now.
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i still need to replace an xlr in on the one ive had since NYE :( ive had it close to 4 months and havent got to use it once :(
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Nope. Its the Ipower 9V Lithiums 500 mah
http://thomasdistributing.com/shop/ipower-9-volt-500mah-lithium-polymer-rechargeable-batteriesbr9v-lithium-rechargeablebrone-9v-rechargeable-battery-p-548.html?SP_id=&osCsid=t4jt3rqq91kb1ppm6rct7m0er2
Run time? I'm assuming it's good for an opener plus main act?
I haven't used them yet. Been using an external 9.6 RC battery. If they are a pure 9 volt, they should do the job.
So I bought a set of the 500 mAh lithium 9Vs. Doing runtime tests now. They are 8.4 V rechargeables.... I'm pretty sure the DPA 402X have a fairly low draw. 8.4V X 3 = 25.2 X2 = 50.4 I'm assuming I should get a few hours out of these beforethey get too low...
Anybody know what to listen for when the Aerco juice runs low? I will leave music playing overnight...
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Good grab. Always wanted to try out the Ipower 9V's. +T and let us know what your results are. I've never had the Aerco run out of juice on me. I'd be interested in hearing what you find there too.
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Good grab. Always wanted to try out the Ipower 9V's. +T and let us know what your results are. I've never had the Aerco run out of juice on me. I'd be interested in hearing what you find there too.
I will do some At943>AT8533 tests for you by the end of next week.
I thought I would bllng out the batts, not sure the 500mAh ones are really worth it...
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Good grab. Always wanted to try out the Ipower 9V's. +T and let us know what your results are. I've never had the Aerco run out of juice on me. I'd be interested in hearing what you find there too.
I will do some At943>AT8533 tests for you by the end of next week.
I thought I would bllng out the batts, not sure the 500mAh ones are really worth it...
I did one test... I will get back to this at some point. I'm not all that happy with the results so far.
Otherwise - the aerco has been solid.
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What happened? Did the Ipowers die out faster than a regular set of Duracells?
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I think about 6 hours. I need to listen to the files... I've just been too busy lately. I know duracells will last at least 12 hours, probably more.
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Bummer. Looks like Ipower has been peddling false advertising.
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no... it's a 8.4 V battery... it makes sense. I should have gone for the 9.6 V as I originally meant to.
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I think Im just going to get a Rat Shack Adaptaplug to fit the Aerco and use one of my MANy 7.2v 3000mah NIMH rc batts :) I also have some 9v Alkalines I already bought around NYE as well. 7.2v should work. Inside the Aerco, it says 7v-12v or something like that. I am thinking a single 3000mah one should last quite a long time(hoping anyway ;) ).
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FYI, here's a DPA 4023 > Aerco > 722 recording from last weekend if anyone is interested. My first time running the unit & I think it sounds fantastic with the DPA's. There was another taper running DPA 4021's > V3 (analog) > 744, so there should be a pretty decent comp of the Aerco & V3 pre's available soon.
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,103323.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,103323.0.html)
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And here's mine from a different night of the tour: Nakamichi CM1000 CP-101 > Aerco MP-2 > Edirol R09
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,103611.0.html
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I just opened my Aerco up. Noticed I'm running BT MB-C PC-A transformers. JT are jensens. CMMI are Reichenbach. What does BT stand for?
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I just opened my Aerco up. Noticed I'm running BT MB-A PC-A transformers. JT are jensens. CMMI are Reichenbach. What does BT stand for?
FWIW, the transformers in the one I just received say Jensen on the top.
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Just Jensen? Or part # JT..... ?
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Just Jensen? Or part # JT..... ?
Here's what's printed on top of the transformers.
Jensen
JT MB-CPCA
Made in USA
8815
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Just Jensen? Or part # JT..... ?
Here's what's printed on top of the transformers.
Jensen
JT MB-CPCA
Made in USA
8815
That's the same type my Aerco came with.
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Mine is printed on the side, not top.
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Mine have nothing written on the sides or top. The writing could possibly on the side that's against the wall of the box, but I can't see it.
I'm planning on sending it in to Jerry to see if he can change the gain stages for me. Right now, they're at 26, 28, 30, 38, 40, 50, 60. I want to have a 0 and 20 stage put in, for louder shows, since the input on the 671 is a little hotter than my old D10ProII. Maybe he can also tell me what the transformers are.
Anyone spoken with him recently regarding turn-around time?
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The writing on the top can wear off pretty easily.
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Mine is Dan's(tubems) Aerco, which was originally bought by Pollock(forget his first name :( ) but Im pretty sure m9ine dont have any writing on them since I have opened it up ALOT and never noticed any writing :) But I'll take a look at it right now and get right back to yinz :)
So Steve, you FINALLY got yours ehh? AWESOME ;D Im SLACKING on fixing my right xlr input :'( Sorry Dan :'( I want to use this frickin thing. Ive only had it 5 months and havent got to use it once yet :'( I was going to try and run it w/ the broken/loose right xlr input, since I put some cardboard behind it inside the metal shell, but when I ran tests at home the most TINY movement of my bag or the cables caused a dropout/channel jumping on the right innput on the 722, so Id rather not risk getting a FUBAR'd recording and I'll just continue to run MBHO>722 for now. BUT I got my tax return/stimulus check yesterday, so I see a bunch of Neutrik XLR CDonnectors for my 'Burnt Out' Interconnects and also (2) brand new Surface Mount Neutrik XLR's for the Aerco so both inputs are new w/ Black/Gold Neutriks so the Aerco is a little bit newer. Its one of the oldest Aerco's that I know of, so its in rough shape cosmetically :) But damnit, I dont care about cosmetics tho, I am just interested in the SONICS of it ;D I will get it all fixed up for this summer for sure tho!!! Cant wait to run MBHO>Aerco>722 ;D I am also going to shoot Jerry an email and ask him if he can get me (2) of those nice shiny, professional looking metal gain knobs that he has pics of on his website. Because the plastic knobs on Dan's Aerco basically fell off without even using them. So right now theyre just the metal screw part w/ out ANY gain knobs at all. just the metal screw knob that I can put a gain knob on. But at least I marked the top of them w/ a sharpie so i know where the gain is set at 8)
Steve, are you in teh states right now? If so, are you going to TLG tonite? I'll shoot to Radio Shack this weekend and find out what adaptaplug fits the external powering jack so that you can be READY TO GO when you get back from Slovenia this time around so you can have everything you need and go straight to those shows youre doing w/ your daughter at Summercamp :)
Steve, shoot me a PM when you get a chance and let me know when youre elaving for Slovenia and I'll go pick up the adaptaplugs we both need and get it to you in enough time before you leave the states my man ;) I sure hope you can make it to TLG toniet tho. I am waiting for Nicole to get off of work tonite to leave. Shes doing a private party where she waitresses at and can hopefully get off work by 5-6 PM at the LASTEST. I'll need to leave Wash, PA by 7-ish at the latest if I want to record too tonite. Moonalice opens(never heard of them and could careless) but TLG is starting at 9-9:15PM tonite. I figured they wouldnt start until 10PM but I called Smalls just now and was mistaken. Id love to maybe run teh Aerco for a set tonight if you have it? Maybe you can run the M148 for their first set(if they are even doing two sets) and I can run the Aerco for a set possibly? Since you have all those fancy preamps and mine is broken, Im going to be mooching off of you to try out your 2 diff preamps jusdt for a diff flavor ;) I would hate to SMOKE your tapes w/ out running an external preamp tho :P ;D J/K my man ;)
But we do need to switch out your pre's for a few shows and run a diff preamp for each set here soon. I would LOVE to try your bran new Aerco out w/ my MBHO's ;D And I have NEVER ran or even ehard of any MBHO>M148 sources. Have you? I bet that would be a sweet combo as well as long as the 148 wasnt TOO warm for my Ho's :) But damn its nice and convenient running JUST my lo-pro actives and the 722. Im HOOKED on the ease of thats etup. But since the aerco is SOOOO TINY, it fits into my SMALL Cairn II and doesnt take up too much space, so running the Aerco when i get it fixed wont be a PITA at all thankfully :) And it will also help save 722 battery power since I can rune LINE IN on the 722. And I can save even more 722 juice by running JUST the cf card like I have been recently, not to mention the 722 doesnt get NEARLY as hot as when Im writing to the INHDD at all. I trust the CF CArd with my dear life, so I have no problem just writing to teh cf card and using my 722 like a 702 ;) For the last 2 years tho Ive been writing top BOTH the INHDD and the cf card for total redundancy :)
OK, enough rambling :P I just checked mine, err, Dan's Aerco, and there is absolutely NO WRITING on the transformers ANYWHERE, not even to the sides facing the walls of the shell. So Im guessing mine are the Jensen transformers, but I have NO IDEA on what model of Jensen transformers. I wonder if Jerry keeps a detailed log of each and every Aerco hes ever made and what transformers are in that particular box ??? Do you guys Aerco's ahve a serial number or any kind of number to signify what number Aerco yours is? Like is there an Aerco MP-2 #1 and an Aerco MP-2 #2 etc ??? I guess I could look again inside but I JUST put it away and I have 9v batts in there :P
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Dear Bean,
Fix the MP-2, Make Sick tapes with it, be happy.
Sincerely,
Ben
Many Excuses and Lots of Smiley's
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Mine have nothing written on the sides or top. The writing could possibly on the side that's against the wall of the box, but I can't see it.
I'm planning on sending it in to Jerry to see if he can change the gain stages for me. Right now, they're at 26, 28, 30, 38, 40, 50, 60. I want to have a 0 and 20 stage put in, for louder shows, since the input on the 671 is a little hotter than my old D10ProII. Maybe he can also tell me what the transformers are.
Anyone spoken with him recently regarding turn-around time?
Matt,
My gain is set as follows: 0, 12, 24, 30, 36, 42
I usually am set at 24 for loud shows, 30 for everything else.
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Mine have nothing written on the sides or top. The writing could possibly on the side that's against the wall of the box, but I can't see it.
I'm planning on sending it in to Jerry to see if he can change the gain stages for me. Right now, they're at 26, 28, 30, 38, 40, 50, 60. I want to have a 0 and 20 stage put in, for louder shows, since the input on the 671 is a little hotter than my old D10ProII. Maybe he can also tell me what the transformers are.
Anyone spoken with him recently regarding turn-around time?
Matt,
My gain is set as follows: 0, 12, 24, 30, 36, 42
I usually am set at 24 for loud shows, 30 for everything else.
My gain stages are at 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50! I just planned on keeping the gain at 20db and fixing it w/ the 722 from there!
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Mine is Dan's(tubems) Aerco, which was originally bought by Pollock(forget his first name :( ) but Im pretty sure m9ine dont have any writing on them since I have opened it up ALOT and never noticed any writing :) But I'll take a look at it right now and get right back to yinz :)
LOL! I was talking to Dave (halleyscomet8) at Drew Emmitt on Friday and he mentioned that you are currently holding that Aerco and there are some problems with it. I recall buying that back in 1997-1998 or so and sold it to Dan to keep it in the family (he was in LA at the time and needed a good preamp for stuff he was running out there).....that thing is vintage at this point :P
What a great box - you really do need to get it fixed Bean so you can run that biznatch!!!!
Jimbo (Pollock)
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Probably a dumb question, but if I put rechargeables into the Aerco, do I need to get a charger for the batteries or can I get a same-voltage wallwart with a connector the size of the Aerco jack and recharge them without ever taking the cover off the preamp?
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Mine is Dan's(tubems) Aerco, which was originally bought by Pollock(forget his first name :( ) but Im pretty sure m9ine dont have any writing on them since I have opened it up ALOT and never noticed any writing :) But I'll take a look at it right now and get right back to yinz :)
LOL! I was talking to Dave (halleyscomet8) at Drew Emmitt on Friday and he mentioned that you are currently holding that Aerco and there are some problems with it. I recall buying that back in 1997-1998 or so and sold it to Dan to keep it in the family (he was in LA at the time and needed a good preamp for stuff he was running out there).....that thing is vintage at this point :P
What a great box - you really do need to get it fixed Bean so you can run that biznatch!!!!
Jimbo (Pollock)
It is def slowly getting there. Just built an external powering cable for my 7.2v 3000mah NIMH rc batts and I also bought some gain knobs at radioshack :) All I need now are (2) xlr inputs 8)
Wow, I never knew you were Jimbo Pollock, small world ehh? ;D I DEF need it fixed especially to warm up shows indoor :)
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Bean,
I run a 9.6V RC battery for mine. Dump the 7.2's and man-up.
Sincerely,
Jim Rome :P
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Bean,
I run a 9.6V RC battery for mine. Dump the 7.2's and man-up.
Sincerely,
Jim Rome :P
Do you have a link to a good 9.6V battery?
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Bean,
I run a 9.6V RC battery for mine. Dump the 7.2's and man-up.
Sincerely,
Jim Rome :P
Well I already have (12) x 7.2v 3000mah NIMH rc batts :) I will def buy a few 9.6v batts if need be tho :P
So, what are your runtimes w/ a SINGLE 9.6v NIMH rc battery? What mah are you using?
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I have a 3000mah 9.6V RC battery. My guess is 24+ hours.
http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?sofocus=bs&sbrftog=1&dfsp=32&catref=C6&from=R40&satitle=9.6v+rc+car&sacat=-1%26catref%3DC6&sargn=-1%26saslc%3D2&sadis=200&fpos=13203&sabfmts=1&saobfmts=insif&ftrt=1&ftrv=1&saprclo=&saprchi=&fsop=32%26fsoo%3D2&fgtp=
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do you think one of these could fit inside the Aerco?
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do you think one of these could fit inside the Aerco?
Uhmmm............ ;D
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It was worth a try... :bigsmile:
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Thanks for the info Dan ;) Why do you think I should swicth tho? The Aerco states that 7-20 volts DC, correct? I am thinking the 7.2 will last a LONG TIME as well! Plus, the 9.6v batts are 2 cells bigger than my 7.2v's are :P
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Thanks for the info Dan ;) Why do you think I should swicth tho? The Aerco states that 7-20 volts DC, correct? I am thinking the 7.2 will last a LONG TIME as well! Plus, the 9.6v batts are 2 cells bigger than my 7.2v's are :P
Because the minute your 7.2's go below its measured voltage, you'll see a rapid decrease in your gain. Better safe than sorry. ;)
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Thanks for the info Dan ;) Why do you think I should swicth tho? The Aerco states that 7-20 volts DC, correct? I am thinking the 7.2 will last a LONG TIME as well! Plus, the 9.6v batts are 2 cells bigger than my 7.2v's are :P
Because the minute your 7.2's go below its measured voltage, you'll see a rapid decrease in your gain. Better safe than sorry. ;)
Thats why Im going to TEST them first :P ;)
I know that the voltage is low for the Aerco, but 7.2v batts fully charged are at 8.1-8.2volts :)
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Thats why Im going to TEST them first :P ;)
Did aerco ever mention anything about the gain adjustment problem you had in Houston? Just curious...
The Aerco does not adjust gain gracefully. I cut the pops from a few tracks during crowd noise. I left the couple during the tunes.
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Thats why Im going to TEST them first :P ;)
Did aerco ever mention anything about the gain adjustment problem you had in Houston? Just curious...
The Aerco does not adjust gain gracefully. I cut the pops from a few tracks during crowd noise. I left the couple during the tunes.
I'm at the point now where 9 times out of 10 I get the right gain setting before the music starts.
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Thats why Im going to TEST them first :P ;)
Did aerco ever mention anything about the gain adjustment problem you had in Houston? Just curious...
The Aerco does not adjust gain gracefully. I cut the pops from a few tracks during crowd noise. I left the couple during the tunes.
It's a known issue. It can be over come by using variable gain pots, but they fail sooner than the fixed pots. I knew there would be issues when I recorded WSP, but it was my first time running the Aerco & I wanted to hear it for myself. My plan of attack for the future is to get it close & fine tune with the 722.
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Thats why Im going to TEST them first :P ;)
Did aerco ever mention anything about the gain adjustment problem you had in Houston? Just curious...
The Aerco does not adjust gain gracefully. I cut the pops from a few tracks during crowd noise. I left the couple during the tunes.
It's a known issue. It can be over come by using variable gain pots, but they fail sooner than the fixed pots. I knew there would be issues when I recorded WSP, but it was my first time running the Aerco & I wanted to hear it for myself. My plan of attack for the future is to get it close & fine tune with the 722.
Yeah. I plan on running 20db on the Aerco and the rest w/ the 722, just like I have w/ the v2 and v3 and sonosax sx-m2. 30 would probably be alright, but why risk those nasty 10db jumps. Boy, I thought the DMIC-20 was bad when I ran that from 99-03, but 10db jumps are a lot worse :)
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If you are fairly quick with the gain switches and do it at a decent moment, I've found the spikes can be cut from the wave fairly cleanly. I haven't had much luck using NR on them because they are 100% noise. I usually get the gain right so it isn't often an issue. An exception is someone like A. Escovedo who often comes into the audience and does a no-PA encore. That's a case where you have to significantly increase gain and point the mics in a different direction.. But since you don't know quite where the band is going to stand (and they often move before the second song), it can be kinda busy. So you're trying to be quick with your changes but not introduce handling noise, etc.
The AERCO needs 9 volts to produce 48 volt phantom.
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If you are fairly quick with the gain switches and do it at a decent moment, I've found the spikes can be cut from the wave fairly cleanly. I haven't had much luck using NR on them because they are 100% noise. I usually get the gain right so it isn't often an issue. An exception is someone like A. Escovedo who often comes into the audience and does a no-PA encore. That's a case where you have to significantly increase gain and point the mics in a different direction.. But since you don't know quite where the band is going to stand (and they often move before the second song), it can be kinda busy. So you're trying to be quick with your changes but not introduce handling noise, etc.
The AERCO needs 9 volts to produce 48 volt phantom.
I'm pretty sure you don't need 9V. I think you only need 8V, possibly less if your mics do not require 48V phantom. The Aerco will run on standard 9V rechargeables (that are usually 8.4 V starting out).
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I usually don't have to change gain during the show, but when I do it's always in-between tunes. Also, use the zoom feature in Wavelab to be able to cut out just the spike, and it should be "almost" seamless.
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I usually don't have to change gain during the show, but when I do it's always in-between tunes. Also, use the zoom feature in Wavelab to be able to cut out just the spike, and it should be "almost" seamless.
I tend not to cut. Just reduce gain by ~30db. That way if I need to sync to video or sbd later the recording is still intact. Also I can give my cue sheet to other tapers.
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I usually don't have to change gain during the show, but when I do it's always in-between tunes. Also, use the zoom feature in Wavelab to be able to cut out just the spike, and it should be "almost" seamless.
I tend not to cut. Just reduce gain by ~30db. That way if I need to sync to video or sbd later the recording is still intact. Also I can give my cue sheet to other tapers.
That's a good idea, Prof. +T
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On one show that an indie band really wanted a copy of (2-3 emails) I did go in and cut out the clicks, added fades prior to and after the clicks and then crossfaded (merged the two tracks). This is the sexy solution... but it takes longer
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how does this pre compare to the m148?
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how does this pre compare to the m148?
At least one person has had both at the same time and decided to sell the m148... but take that with a grain of salt.
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how does this pre compare to the m148?
I have often heard that it is 85% of the M148. Both in sound and in price.
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I have both and would be hard pressed to sell either. I think they both have their places and the right mic combos. And I cannot stealth a 148... Call it lack of kahunas.. the thought of the brick falling down my pants leg and breaking my foot doesn't excite me.
Jeff
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thanks for the info guys
not that i am looking for either nor could i afford either right now anyway
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FYI. Took these for someone a couple weeks ago.
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Where did you get that felt stuff you put on it? I still need to figure out if my Aerco is leaking current into the case...
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Where did you get that felt stuff you put on it? I still need to figure out if my Aerco is leaking current into the case...
Michael's craft store. It's like $1 for a 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of peel & stick felt.
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Maybe I'll just use your role of gaff tape - sorry I keep forgetting to return it.
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Well........waiting 6 months now for my Aerco and i still don't have it.
Jerry said any day now around Thanksgiving >:(
Should change the title of this thread to 7 months lead time now.
I'll post back here when i get mine.
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Well........waiting 6 months now for my Aerco and i still don't have it.
Jerry said any day now around Thanksgiving >:(
Should change the title of this thread to 7 months lead time now.
I'll post back here when i get mine.
You mean you didn't read all my bitching posts in this thread about waiting? :P
I can't believe there were two Aerco's that sat around in the yard sale this past fall...
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Well........waiting 6 months now for my Aerco and i still don't have it.
Jerry said any day now around Thanksgiving >:(
Should change the title of this thread to 7 months lead time now.
I'll post back here when i get mine.
You mean you didn't read all my bitching posts in this thread about waiting? :P
I can't believe there were two Aerco's that sat around in the yard sale this past fall...
Yes i saw your posts......let the NEW buyer beware.
I already have a used one i bought in the YS a while back, i thought i'd just sell that one
when the new one arrived. Good thing i didn't sell my used one too soon.....i made some
smokin tapes with the DPA 4023's in front of the aerco.
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Well........waiting 6 months now for my Aerco and i still don't have it.
Jerry said any day now around Thanksgiving >:(
Should change the title of this thread to 7 months lead time now.
I'll post back here when i get mine.
You mean you didn't read all my bitching posts in this thread about waiting? :P
I can't believe there were two Aerco's that sat around in the yard sale this past fall...
Yes i saw your posts......let the NEW buyer beware.
I already have a used one i bought in the YS a while back, i thought i'd just sell that one
when the new one arrived. Good thing i didn't sell my used one too soon.....i made some
smokin tapes with the DPA 4023's in front of the aerco.
Yeah - that is a smoking combo. My favorite stealth rig by far - though some people (Schoeps fans) tend to find the DPAs too crisp.
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no matter how great the box sounds i would never buy one without a exact ship date
telling someone a few days around thanksgiving and still not having it would really make me mad too
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no matter how great the box sounds i would never buy one without a exact ship date
telling someone a few days around thanksgiving and still not having it would really make me mad too
It's worth the wait, no matter how aggravating that may be.
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Well........waiting 6 months now for my Aerco and i still don't have it.
Jerry said any day now around Thanksgiving >:(
Should change the title of this thread to 7 months lead time now.
I'll post back here when i get mine.
Sorry to hear you still havent gotten yours....Don't get him to cancel your order though, someone here would take it. (I'd even take on a 2nd one)
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Well........waiting 6 months now for my Aerco and i still don't have it.
Jerry said any day now around Thanksgiving >:(
Should change the title of this thread to 7 months lead time now.
I'll post back here when i get mine.
Sorry to hear you still havent gotten yours....Don't get him to cancel your order though, someone here would take it. (I'd even take on a 2nd one)
I didn't cancel.
Today he said a week from friday at the latest and he said mine takes longer because it is custom.
Yours was custom too.
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Well........waiting 6 months now for my Aerco and i still don't have it.
Jerry said any day now around Thanksgiving >:(
Should change the title of this thread to 7 months lead time now.
I'll post back here when i get mine.
Sorry to hear you still havent gotten yours....Don't get him to cancel your order though, someone here would take it. (I'd even take on a 2nd one)
I didn't cancel.
Today he said a week from friday at the latest and he said mine takes longer because it is custom.
Yours was custom too.
If you don't mind me asking what custom features did you order?
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Mine will have both channel gain on left knob and
both channel 10 db trim on the right knob.
Keith's has a 5 pin binder plug, so he doesn't have to use xlr cables
with the vst setup.
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Yahoo...... Got a tracking # today for my unit!!
It will be here on friday, exactly 7 months from the day
i sent the money.
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Yahoo...... Got a tracking # today for my unit!!
It will be here on friday, exactly 7 months from the day
i sent the money.
Congrats!
That's a long time for sure...
Atleast we are keeping Jerry in business!
He's got mine right now for a little tweak.
Hope to have it back soon.
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Bump this back up for an addition.
Taped a bunch of times with my brand new Aerco until
2 weeks ago when it was dead. Sent back to Jerry and he fixed it and sent
it back in less than a week, no charge!
Since i ripped him here for taking too long on building mine,
i now want to commend him on great customer service!!
His product is fantastic, one of the best sounding small pre out there
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Mine will have both channel gain on left knob and
both channel 10 db trim on the right knob.
This is how mine is too.
I bought a used one that was cosmetically lacking, and sent it in to Jerry.
He changed the gain structure to be like the above (except my trim is something like 18dB swing), put it in a new case, changed all the connectors & power switch, and best of all...he added an external phantom power switch on the side of the box! No more having to take the top off to switch the phantom jumpers.
I haven't used mine enough since he sent it back to me though.
Best sounding portable preamp I've heard!
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finally got to run mine in Vegas last weekend for DMB
very happy with the way it sounds 8)
I'll post some samples later, even though it's DMB :P
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Hey I'd love to check that show out...
is it up somewhere?
Haven't heard or seen DMB for a couple years now.
You ran the Aerco with the Schoeps?
finally got to run mine in Vegas last weekend for DMB
very happy with the way it sounds 8)
I'll post some samples later, even though it's DMB :P
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n1: http://www.dreamingtree.org/details.php?id=6783
n2: http://www.dreamingtree.org/details.php?id=6787
yep, ran Schoeps CCM4 (DINa, ~17') > Aerco MP-2 > Edirol R-09HR (24/48)
Hey I'd love to check that show out...
is it up somewhere?
Haven't heard or seen DMB for a couple years now.
You ran the Aerco with the Schoeps?
finally got to run mine in Vegas last weekend for DMB
very happy with the way it sounds 8)
I'll post some samples later, even though it's DMB :P
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Dave Matthews Band
Grand Garden Arena - MGM Grand Hotel
Las Vegas, NV
May 8, 2009
Taper: Crumbo
Location: Floor A, Row J, Seats 1 & 2
Source: Schoeps CCM4 (DINa, ~17') > Aerco MP-2 > Edirol R-09HR (24/48)
Conversion: Edirol R-09HR > Wavelab 5.01b (resample, dither w/MegaBitMax) > CDWav 1.97 > xACT 0.5.9 > foobar2000
Tripping Billies : http://www.sendspace.com/file/50lewc
some level adjustments in the beginning....good balance of all the instruments :)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dave Matthews Band
Grand Garden Arena - MGM Grand Hotel
Las Vegas, NV
May 9, 2009
Taper: Crumbo
Location: Floor A, Row H, Seats 1 & 2
Source: Schoeps CCM4 (DINa, ~17') > Aerco MP-2 > Edirol R-09HR (24/48)
Conversion: Edirol R-09HR > Wavelab 5.01b (resample, dither w/MegaBitMax) > CDWav 1.97 > xACT 0.5.9 > foobar2000
Recently: http://www.sendspace.com/file/auj6xj
shows a nice representation of all the instruments :)
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Thanks Crumbo, starting to download it now.
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Sent my Aerco in to have the gain lowered. It started at 20dB and I send it in to start at 5dB and go up by increments of 5. Got an email from Jerry this morning and he's sending it out. Hopefully I'll have it tomorrow so I can run Sunday at a local joint and then Tuesday for NIN/JA. Took about a month and a half, but hey, it's all good! 8)
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I'm thinking of selling my custom Aerco MP-2 if anyone on here is interested...
Check out this thread for info and pics:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,113722.0.html
Drop me a line for details.
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I'm thinking of selling my custom Aerco MP-2 if anyone on here is interested...
Check out this thread for info and pics:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,113722.0.html
Drop me a line for details.
PM sent.
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Got to use my Aerco wed night after getting it back from Jerry last week.
I'll post in the kickdown soon.
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,122196.0.html
ran schoeps mk-4>kc5>cmc6>aerco>r-09
very high quality compact rig
gonna try mk-4>kc5>cmc6>aerco>ad2k>mt2
for Jackie Greene wed night
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aerco>ad2k
a combo from heaven behind any decent pair of mics ;D
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gonna try mk-4>kc5>cmc6>aerco>ad2k>mt2
for Jackie Greene wed night
guess we'll have an Aerco fest, I'll be running MK41's>Aerco & KM150's>Aerco
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gonna try mk-4>kc5>cmc6>aerco>ad2k>mt2
for Jackie Greene wed night
guess we'll have an Aerco fest, I'll be running MK41's>Aerco & KM150's>Aerco
Why not.
Although it's hard to lay off the V3 and use the aerco instead, i have never made a bad tape with
the aerco. It's really a great pre and it runs off external battery power. Love mine.
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I run mine with a Tekkeon battery. Picked the bat up a few weeks ago. I have Wanee next weekend. It will be interesting to see how long it takes Aerco to drain it. I'm gonna feed it 12v, for the Nak 1k's are power hungry.
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Ran the DPA 4023 (which I am absolutely loving!)>Aerco MP-2>MTII for a local show and then used the same combo for NIN/JA with really good results. I'm really liking the combo.
I know it's in this thread but at work and can't stay on too long....How long recording using phantom power will you get from the 3 9v internal battery's? Is it about 40 hours? Does that sound right?
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Ran the DPA 4023 (which I am absolutely loving!)>Aerco MP-2>MTII for a local show and then used the same combo for NIN/JA with really good results. I'm really liking the combo.
I know it's in this thread but at work and can't stay on too long....How long recording using phantom power will you get from the 3 9v internal battery's? Is it about 40 hours? Does that sound right?
Glad you are enjoying the 4023's 8)
10 hours for the internals.
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Ran the DPA 4023 (which I am absolutely loving!)>Aerco MP-2>MTII for a local show and then used the same combo for NIN/JA with really good results. I'm really liking the combo.
I know it's in this thread but at work and can't stay on too long....How long recording using phantom power will you get from the 3 9v internal battery's? Is it about 40 hours? Does that sound right?
Glad you are enjoying the 4023's 8)
10 hours for the internals.
Thanks.....for everything actually! >:D
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I "heart" my Aerco. ;D
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Ran my aerco for the first time from an external battery.
I tryed a few V3 cables i have with the screw on connector
and no dice, but with a rat shack cable and an M tip everything
works fine. I wonder why the V3 cables don't work? Looks like the tip
doesn't extend far enough?
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Ran my aerco for the first time from an external battery.
I tryed a few V3 cables i have with the screw on connector
and no dice, but with a rat shack cable and an M tip everything
works fine. I wonder why the V3 cables don't work? Looks like the tip
doesn't extend far enough?
yep, tip isn't long enough
you need a Switchcraft S761K 2.0 mm plug
:)
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What do you guys about the layout of the inputs, outputs and knobs on the AERCO?
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I run mine with a Tekkeon battery. Picked the bat up a few weeks ago. I have Wanee next weekend. It will be interesting to see how long it takes Aerco to drain it. I'm gonna feed it 12v, for the Nak 1k's are power hungry.
Ran about 10 hours each day @ 12v. Recharged betweens days. Tekkeon only dropped two lights each day. I bet it would've ran the whole weekend on one charge. Tekkeon is a perfect match for the Aerco. Especially for festies.
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Time for the next thread?
:)
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Thread #2 is here:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,123931.0.html