PreSonus has announced the DigiMax DP88, an 8-channel microphone preamplifier and A/D/A converter that combines eight remote-controllable, high-headroom mic preamps with advanced remote control features, superior connectivity, unprecedented integration with the new Studio 192 audio interface, and compatibility with third-party, ADAT Optical-equipped audio interfaces.
The newest member of the company’s ever-popular DigiMax series, the 24-bit, 96 kHz DigiMax DP88 delivers exceptional audio quality thanks to its clean audio path, eight XMAX™ Class A preamps, and Burr-Brown A/D/A converters with 118 dB of dynamic range. Unlike most recallable mic preamps, which rely on digital integrated circuits that compromise audio quality, the recallable XMAX is a true analog preamp with a separate digital volume control circuit.
In addition to offering front-panel control, the DP88’s preamps can be controlled via MIDI with any DAW. Unlike most remote preamps, the DP88 uses simple MIDI CC messages to control Level, Phantom Power, and direct ADC input. MIDI Channel 1 controls Preamp 1, MIDI Channel 2 controls Preamp 2, and so on, making MIDI management easy and intuitive.
When connected via ADAT Optical to a PreSonus Studio 192 audio interface, the DP88’s preamp controls also are accessible from PreSonus’ Studio One DAW and UC Surface control software for Mac OS X and Windows. No additional setup is required; the DP88 becomes a natural extension of the Studio 192 inputs and outputs. The DP88 also adds analog I/O and remote controllable preamps to ADAT Optical-equipped, third-party interfaces.
All inputs and outputs are on the rear panel, making it easy to incorporate the unit into any studio. The DP88 provides eight channels of ADAT Optical I/O at up to 96 kHz (using dual SMUX). Mic inputs are on XLR and DB25 connectors. Eight balanced, line-level direct inputs that bypass the preamps are available on a DB25 connector and can be connected at the same time as the preamp inputs.
Eight balanced direct outputs are provided on a DB25, as are eight balanced DAC outputs that expand your interface outputs for monitor mixes or speaker switching. You get MIDI I/O on a multi-pin connector and breakout cable and word clock I/O on BNC connectors. Use the DP88 as the master clock, or sync it externally via ADAT or word clock.
Phantom power is individually switchable for each preamp. Each channel has an eight-segment LED input meter and a phantom power indicator.
The DigiMax DP88 is now available for purchase in the USA, and is expected to be available worldwide in January, with an expected street price of $699 USD.
More information: PreSonus / DigiMax DP88
