Description

The Useful Arts SFP-60 is a two-channel, full-featured all-tube mic pre designed to make microphone signals pop in a mix without the need for other enhancement. The sound of the SFP-60 is more clear, present and edgy than dark and creamy, and is specifically designed to make vocals sound forward and intimate.

Inside, the SFP-60 features separate regulated DC power supplies for tube filaments, phantom power and high voltage. The high voltage soft start power supply puts out over 270 volts of clean, regulated power to ensure maximum headroom and the lowest noise possible.

Useful Arts SFP-60 Features:

Audio Magnetics (Input and Output Transformers, Plate Inductor) custom wound by Cinemag®
Output Transformer with 50% nickel core
Frequency response is flat within 2dB from 20Hz-30KHz:
Each channel of the SFP-60 features 5 switches:
- Input selector (Rear XLR/Front Instrument Input)
- High Pass Filter
- Input Pad
- Phase Reverse
- Phantom Power
Absolutely no signal passes through these switches, because we hate the noise that develops over time in even the most expensive switches. Instead, the front panel switches control sealed, gold-plated relays to ensure years of operation without pops and clicks.
The input and output levels of the triode stages of the SFP-60 are separately controllable by detented attenuators, and combined with the color control, the SFP-60 provides just over 55dB of useable gain.
The rear panel is simple: Gold-plated XLR connectors for the transformer-balanced inputs and outputs, a ground post, and a voltage selector for 115/230 volt operation.
The faceplate is milled from .190”-thick aircraft-grade aluminum for maximum rigidity, and anodized in a very dark green finish. All markings on the front panel are laser-engraved, ensuring that the unit’s appearance will not deteriorate with age.
The only active devices in the signal path are the three tube gain stages, consisting of 1 EF806 and 1 ECC82 per channel. We use new-manufacture JJ tubes for long life and easy replacement.
Each channel features an output level VU meter, which is op-amp buffered to ensure that the signal is not loaded by the meter.
The audio power supply features a toroidal dual-primary transformer and linear regulation for lowest noise.
Construction is fully modular, with gold plated connectors used throughout the audio path.