Summit Audio TD-100 Instrument Preamp & Tube Direct Box

The TD-100 instrument preamp and tube direct box from Summit Audio features a hybrid signal path utilizing both a discrete solid state output device and a 12AX7A/ECC83 vacuum tube. Musical instruments take on the clarity of class A sound with the richness and warmth of vacuum tubes.

 

Perfect for both live and studio use, the unit offers XLR microphone level and 1/4" TRS line level outputs, plus variable input impedance, polarity switch, ground lift, signal and overdrive LEDs and a headphone output for use as a practice device.

 

The variable input impedance control (loading) can dramatically alter the sound of an instrument. By lowering the impedance on the TD-100 the instrument's pickups get loaded down, changing their tone and the way they react to the string vibrations, generally making the tone darker and quieter.

 

Raising the impedance allows the pickups to work without hindrance, opening up the sound with a slight increase in gain. The instrument can then sit properly in a mix without EQ or other tone shapers. This effect works best with passive pickups.

 

The transformerless vacuum tube based circuitry isn't made to distort, rather it's used to add a subtle texture and smoothness, a professional sheen to an instrument. All of this functionality is packed into a very compact 1U half rack chassis with an internal power supply.

 

Instrument preamplifier and tube direct box

Variable input impedance from 10kΩ to 2MΩ provides great variation to musical instruments

Delivers smooth and subtle tube overtones

XLR microphone level and 1/4" TRS line level outputs

Headphone output

Ground lift and polarity switch

Signal and overload LEDs

One 12AX7A/ECC83 vacuum tube

Internal, high voltage power supply

 

Input Connections 1 x 1/4" TS phone (front panel)

Output Connectors 1 x XLR Microphone Level

1 x 1/4" TRS phone Line Level

1 x 1/4" TS phone Direct Out (front panel)

1 x 1/4" TRS phone Headphone

Input Level Not specified by manufacturer

Output Level +24dB

Controls 1 x Rotary Control Variable Input Impedance (loading)

1 x Rotary Control Output Gain

Frequency Response 24Hz to 48kHz, -1.0dB

Noise THD+Noise: 0.07% @1kHz with 16dB gain, A weighted; 0.11% unweighted

Power 120V AC

Dimensions (WxDxH) 9 1/2" x 8" x 1 3/4"

Weight Not specified by manufacturer

Specialties Both a direct box for live use and instrument preamplifier for recording