Prism Sound’s highly-regarded MEA-2 stereo analogue equalizer and MLA-2 stereo compressor have both undergone major upgrades to improve their performance and update their appearance.
On show for the first time at AES in San Francisco (Booth 725), the new versions of these two modern-day classics were updated by engineer/producer Leif Mases who first developed the MEA-2 and MLA-2 for Prism Sound in 1995. Leif's work with a diverse range of artists including Abba, Led Zeppelin, Jeff Beck and Black Sabbath, as well as co-ownership of the renowned Marcus Studios in London, provided the essential experience using the "tools of the trade" needed to define and implement new and improved professional audio components.
Designed for recording and mastering applications, the MEA-2 is a stereo or 2-channel, four-band precision analogue equalizer with stepped Q/shelf, frequency and cut/boost controls on each band. The new MEA-2 features faster amplifiers with wider bandwidth and improved low frequency eq filters. The individual eq sections are now completely switched off when the gain controls are set to 0dB and the unit goes into full bypass when the power is switched off. These developments have significantly improved the unit’s specifications by providing lower noise and wider dynamic range, while the new output amplifiers have improved high frequency performance. The icing on the cake is a fabulous new look, featuring custom-designed metal knobs and a thicker front panel.
Similar updates have been applied to the MLA-2, a stereo or 2-channel compressor with stepped drive (input gain), ratio, attack and release time and output gain controls. Once again, the exterior has been modernized to include custom designed metal knobs and a thicker front panel. New output amplifiers with improved high frequency performance have also been incorporated and this unit also offers total bypass when the power is off.
“The MEA-2 and MLA-2 have always been popular amongst professional recording and mastering engineers but, as a result of ongoing research and listening tests, I felt there was room for improvement,” Leif Mases says. “These new updates upgrade their specifications and give them a look that is more in keeping with today’s studio environment. I’m delighted with what we have achieved and feel certain that our customers will be equally impressed.”
The combination of Leif Mases' experience with the creative process and Prism Sound's focus on engineering and technical excellence ensure that the Maselec Master Series delivers great-sounding audio in an intuitive and easy-to-use package. As well as working with Prism Sound on the Maselec range, Leif Mases is also responsible for the highly acclaimed Maselec 9001 retrofit equalizer, which he developed for SSL’s 4000 range of mixing consoles. He currently builds custom consoles and equipment for mastering and other applications.
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