User manual RANE MS 1A DATASHEET

[. . . ] A Polarity switch and high-current crosscoupled output line driver round out the features. The MS 1a utilizes one of the finest ultra low noise amplifier designs available. Featuring a true differential input with high common-mode rejection, use of the MS 1a guarantees performance usually found only in mixing consoles costing thousands of times as much. [. . . ] With this in mind, perhaps a few words on using the MS 1a might not be wasted. BALANCED USE The MS 1a provides a true cross-coupled balanced output. This is equivalent to an electronic simulation of a transformer output. Rane follows the AES standard of pin 2 = hot. When running a long cable back to the mixer, run a linelevel balanced line rather than a mic-level line. The compact MS 1a can mount closer to the microphone, provide a local volume control (or not, just pull the knob off), while the stronger signal minimizes RF and hum irritations. UNBALANCED USE Balanced use is recommended to minimize noise. When you must drive an unbalanced device with the MS 1a's balanced output, connect pin 2 to the "+" or "hot" lead, and tie pin 3 and ground together at the shield. MIXING The MS 1a is designed to fill the need for adding a microphone channel to line-level mixers, such as the Rane SM 26B or SM 82. Many installations using either of these products invariably wind up with one unused input that would do the job perfectly if only it could operate at mic-level. DIGITAL RECORDING AND SAMPLING Another handy use for the MS 1a is in recording applications. Many popular products do not have a high enough quality mic preamp to suit the resolution of the digital processing electronics. Using the ultra low noise MS 1a to bring the mic inputs up to extremely high quality line-level is an easy and affordable solution for this dilemma. MICROPHONE TYPES The available gain range of the MS 1a allows the use of virtually any type of microphone. True 48V phantom power guarantees the MS 1a works with every microphone. [. . . ] The unit shall be a Rane MS 1a Microphone Stage. CHASSIS GROUNDING Units with outboard power supplies do not ground the chassis through the line cord. Make sure that these units are grounded either to another chassis which is earth grounded, or directly to the grounding screw on an AC outlet cover by means of a wire connected to a screw on the chassis with a star washer to guarantee proper contact. [. . . ]