Aphex expands 500 Series with new modules

Aphex has introduced six new modules to its 500 Series, forming a comprehensive line of signal processors. New to the range are the J Pre 500 mic pre, the EQF 500 parametric equaliser, the Dual RPA 500 mic pre, a pre 500 mic pre, the Comp 500 optical compressor and the previously unveiled EX•BB 500 Aural Exciter/Big Bottom module.

Taking inspiration from the brand’s flagship Aphex 1788A remote controlled preamp, the J Pre 500 benefits from a Jensen JT11K8 nickel input transformer and Aphex patented mic limiter technology, in addition to a Jensen JT-11DL nickel output-balancing transformer.

Meanwhile, the EQF 500 is a modern take on the brand’s Aphex EQF-2 500 series three-band equaliser. This unit includes a Jensen output-balancing transformer and offers 25Hz to 20kHz operation.

The third in the new line up is the two-channel Dual RPA 500 mic pre, a solid state/tube hybrid preamp that includes Aphex’s patented Mic Limiter technology. Key to its appeal is that the solid-state front end provides a fast transient response while the tube back end provides ‘warmth and punch’.

Moving on to the Pre 500 mic pre, this is inspired by the Aphex 188 eight-channel preamp. Both use a custom-designed Aphex input transformer, and like the 188, the Pre 500 features a Jensen JT-11DL nickel output-balancing transformer.

The new Comp 500 module is an optical compressor, and features an electronically balanced input and uses a Jensen JT-11DL nickel output-balancing transformer. Optimised to be as fast as possible, the OC-500 features stereo linking and combines the transparency of an optical compressor with enough flexibility to achieve aggressive compression when needed.

Completing the new series is the EX•BB 500, which is a mono, 500 Series module version of the Aphex Aural Exciter and Optical Big Bottom processors.

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