R.E. Designs SCPA 1 Six-Channel Preamp

A few years ago when I started to do the research and development for the SCPA 1, I consulted with some of the better professionals doing multi channel audio recording and mix down in the Boston area.

I was given a demonstration at one studio that left an indelible mark on my consciousness. The demonstration started with all six channels precisely calibrated. Then the levels were reset so that the speaker levels were 0.5db from each other.
The difference was stunning. The loss of coherency from the precision level setting versus the 0.5db setting gave me a clear understanding of what was going to be required for multi channel audio playback.

Precision level control can also provide additional benefits. From stereo we learned that precision level control could greatly reduce the need for equalization, tone controls and balance controls. The above applies for multi channel audio as well.
With the above in mind, the SCPA 1 will exceed the requirements for multi channel audio. Each channel level trim can be adjusted to within 0.025 db of the target. The master volume control will track to within 0.1db, typically 0.05db at the worst case. I should note that this is all done in analog domain. No digital attenuation to lop off bits or parts of bits to reduce resolution. There is no digital at all in the SCPA 1.

For the serious multi channel music lover, the level calibration procedure that the studios use is included with the SCPA 1. All you need is a good spl meter and a test disc that has pink noise for this purpose. Total novices have been able to calibrate their systems as well as any studio by simply following the calibration procedure included with the SCPA 1. Stunning listening is only a calibration away.