User Manual

4
Introduction
This Focusrite Red 1 500 Series is a high quality, single-channel microphone preamplifier in 5.25” x 1.5” modular
format, designed to fit any of the popular “500 Series” portable rack housings.
The Red 1 500 Series is fully analogue, using circuitry identical to that employed in the familiar Focusrite Red 1 four-
channel mic pre, which was itself based on the now-classic ISA designs of the 1980s. The design uses the Lundahl
LL1538 input transformer to provide excellent common-mode rejection and 20 dB of “passive” gain, coupled to a very
low-noise amplifier with Focusrite’s signature extended bandwidth and high overload margin.
The output circuit is also transformer-coupled, which minimises system interconnection problems and provides a fully
balanced source. The circuit can drive very long cable runs – several kilometres if necessary – without significant signal
degradation, making the Red 1 ideal for location recording.
Intended to provide a traditional, analogue “front-end” to any modern digital recording system, the module will give
outstanding audio performance when used with any microphone. You will find it particularly effective for recording
vocals, or acoustic sources such as piano or stringed instruments.
The Red 1 500 Series module’s front panel provides stepped gain selection, switches for 48 V phantom power and
phase, and an illuminated VU meter.
RoHS Notice
Focusrite Audio Engineering Limited has conformed and this product conforms, where applicable,
to the European Union’s Directive 2002/95/EC on Restrictions of Hazardous Substances (RoHS)
as well as the following sections of California law which refer to RoHS, namely sections 25214.10,
25214.10.2, and 58012, Health and Safety Code; Section 42475.2, Public Resources Code.