SPL BiG Studio Overview. The SPL BiG [Studio] pushes the boundaries of stereo augmentation, giving your mix more breadth, depth, and presence while remaining completely mono compatible. This 19″ rackmount processor, housed in the sleek black style of the SPL Studio Series, delivers both innovation and analog warmth. It has a completely new stereo-processing architecture driven by ±18V high-voltage rails for maximum headroom and clarity. Redefining Big Stereo Sound. Unlike traditional M/S widening, BiG [Studio] employs a novel analog difference-signal network to increase the stereo field organically and tastefully. Three simple controls—Range, Bigness, and Stage—allow you to choose which frequencies are affected, how much width is applied, and where that range fits within the stereo field. The result is a soundscape that seems vibrant and wide while being phase-accurate when summed to mono. Tube Magic and Harmonic Depth. A newly built tube circuit incorporates regulated harmonic amplification for a more realistic, analog dimension. The Tube Harmonics control sets the intensity, while the Harmonics switch turns on the circuit after it has attained its optimal working temperature. A dedicated bass switch provides richness and punch to the bottom end, drawn from SPL’s renowned AirBass filter featured in the IRON Mastering Compressor. Built for professional integration. SPL is well-known for the durability of its products, and the BiG Studio is no exception. BiG Studio, with its 4mm-thick, black anodized aluminum 1U front panel and hefty knobs forged from solid aircraft-grade aluminum, is meant to last. Under the hood, a powerful internal audio voltage of /-18V easily accepts huge signal voltages, providing enough headroom to withstand transient peaks that might cause clipping distortion and contributing to the unit’s open, natural tone. All inputs and outputs are supplied with gold-plated Neutrik XLR and TRS connectors linked in parallel, and signal transmission is electronically balanced at 6 dB. A ground switch is present, which prevents ground loops by isolating the internal ground from the chassis ground. SPL: Supercharged Audio Products. SPL—Sound Performance Lab—was founded in Germany in 1983 and has been at the forefront of the professional audio business since then. From the well-known Transient Designer, TwinTube, and Vitalizer MK2-T to professional mastering instruments like the Passeq, SPL gear can be found in top studios and mastering facilities throughout the world. After creating unique 120V technology in the 1990s, SPL chose to make this groundbreaking technology the foundation of its premium goods. SPL’s equipment is precisely crafted in its Niederkrüchten, Germany workshop, employing discrete, high-quality components and through-hole circuit designs. The firm performs its R&D there, which involves real-world subjective listening evaluations as well as rigorous lab testing to the tightest tolerances. SPL is pleased to provide audio experts with SPL’s outstanding portfolio of innovative devices. SPL BiG Studio’s Features: Stereo image processor with tube harmonic generator. Range control determines frequency range. The stage control allows you to shift a certain frequency range forward or backward on the soundstage. The harmonics button starts harmonic production in the tube circuit. The Tube Harmonics control regulates the strength of the tube’s harmonics. The bigness control determines total processing intensity. The Bass button activates a passive bass enhancement. Bypass toggle for simple wet/dry comparison. Frequency response (-3dB): 10 Hz to 200 kHz. THD N (0dBu, 10Hz-22kHz) = 0.0035%. Noise (A-weighted): -97.5 dBu. Dynamic range is 120dB. Bass frequency: 42 Hz; boost: 2 dB. Harmonic frequency: 6 kHz; maximum boost: 9 dB. I/O: gold-plated Neutrik XLRs and TRS jacks linked in parallel. Internal linear power supply with insulated toroidal transformer. Mains voltage (selectable): 115V/60Hz or 230V/50Hz Produced at SPL’s Niederkrüchten, Germany, factory.
