I have an Accurate Sound 300SS rack unit which a customer wishes to use as a standalone preamp for vocals and possibly guitar. From the layout it looks identical to an Ampex 351. It's all original and needs a bit of work to check it over, carry out any necessary repairs and to replace the electrolytics.
I see quite a few examples where the tape-specific electronics are removed to leave just a functional preamp, and a board added to provide phantom power. But it seems to me from the block diagram that it could just be used like it is to both preserve the original spec (in case it was used with a tape deck) and minimize the amount of work involved.
Has anyone got thoughts on this? I'm also keen to hear if anyone has experience of using the equipment unmodified and what results they've had.
I see quite a few examples where the tape-specific electronics are removed to leave just a functional preamp, and a board added to provide phantom power. But it seems to me from the block diagram that it could just be used like it is to both preserve the original spec (in case it was used with a tape deck) and minimize the amount of work involved.
Has anyone got thoughts on this? I'm also keen to hear if anyone has experience of using the equipment unmodified and what results they've had.