Avalon - M3 and E3 Modules

M3 Pure Class A Mono Microphone Preamplifier and
E3 Pure Class A Mono Music Equalizer

Modules for Sony MXP - 3000 Console

The Avalon M3 Preamplifier and E3 Equalizer Modules are pure Class A, 100% discrete, direct plug-in modules for the Sony MXP-3000 console.

Avalon is currently developing a 19" wide rack mount chassis and power supply system that will run multiple M3 and E3 modules simultaneously. For more information please send an email to avalon@avalondesign.com.

M3 Pure Class A Mono Microphone Preamplifier Module

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The Avalon M3 pure Class A mono microphone preamplifier is a pin-compatible plug-in replacement module for the Sony MXP-3000 series recording consoles.

The Avalon M3 features an alternate design to the Avalon M5 and AD2022 microphone preamplifiers. The M3 utilizes twin cascaded 100% discrete bipolar amplifiers. This unique design combined with a custom high-level input transformer delivers a high definition sonic signature rich with low mid-range harmonics.

The M3's Class A circuit includes a constant current input stage with variable bias and automatic voltage regulation. This ensures that the M3 can be operated over a wide range of input voltages from +/-15v (30v), to +/-40v (80v).

Design highlights include switch selectable phantom power, custom low ratio input transformer, accurate switched gain steps and DC coupled audio circuits.

M3 Specifications

Circuit topology: 100% discrete, high voltage, pure Class A

Gain range: Transformer balanced 1250 nominal

Gain range switch: 4dB switch steps from +20dB to +48dB, 6dB steps +54 to +60dB

High gain switch: Gold contact switch 0dB -15dB

Maximum input level 50Hz: Microphone +10 at 0dB, +25 at -15dB gain setting

Maximum output level: +30dB unbalanced 3k ohms, DC coupled, discrete Class A

Connector interface: 15 pin male gold plated 0.1" amp type (Sony standard)

Noise microphone EIN: -126dB 22-22kHz

Distortion THD, IMD: 0.05% nominal

Frequency response -/+0.5dB: 2Hz to 75kHz input filter included

Frequency response -3dB: 1Hz to 96kHz

Phantom power switch: Gold contact

DC power Bipolar +/-18V 30mA, +/-24V 35mA,+/-32V 40mA

Dimensions: 1.18 x 2.36 x 5.9 in

Weight: 7 oz, 198 gm

E3 Pure Class A Mono Music Equalizer Module

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The Avalon E3 pure Class A four band parametric music equalizer is a pin-compatible plug-in replacement module for the Sony MXP-3000 series recording consoles, designed to optimize absolute signal integrity and musical performance.

Avalon's exclusive combination of active and passive EQ filter design enables the E3 to deliver high speed transient detail at the operational extremes of real-world equalization demands. The passive high and low bands deliver smooth high end detail and extended bass control, while the full function active parametric mid bands provide precise and versatile tone selection.

The E3's Class A circuit includes a constant current input stage with variable bias and automatic voltage regulation. This ensures that the E3 can be operated over a wide range of input voltages from +/-15v (30v), to +/-40v (80v).

The 100% discrete bipolar amplifiers featured in the E3 are Avalon 2010 MkIV. This pure Class A design ensures maximum headroom, extended bandwidth and very low noise. Serious music professionals will appreciate the unlimited sonic character and natural harmonic balance that enhances the program material and becomes one with the music itself.

E3 Specifications

Circuit topology: 100% discrete, high-voltage pure Class A

Maximum input level: +30dB 10k ohms unbalanced

Maximum output level: +30dB unbalanced 3k ohms, DC coupled, discrete Class A

Connector interface: 15 pin male gold plated 0.1" amp type (Sony standard)

Output noise: -85dB EQ in 22-22kHz

Distortion THD, IMD: 0.05% nominal

Frequency response -/+0.5dB: 10Hz to 100kHz

Frequency response -3dB: 4Hz to 230kHz

Equalizer bypass: Hard-wire, DPDT sealed gold contact with LED indicator

Equalizer type: Variable active and switched passive design

Frequency bands (4)

Treble - switched 10kHz, 20kHz, 32Hz +/- 20dB range, shelf

High mid - variable 250Hz to 3k2Hz and 2k5Hz to 32kHz
+/-16dB range, Q = 0.3, 0.5 and 0.8.

Low mid - variable 35Hz to 450Hz and 350Hz to 4k5Hz
+/-16dB range, Q = 0.3, 0.5 and 0.8.

Bass - switched 30Hz, 60Hz, 150Hz +/-24dB range, shelf

DC power - Bipolar +/-18v 70mA, +/-24v 90mA, +/-32v 130mA max

Dimensions: 1.18 x 6.57 x 5.9 in

Weight: 12 oz