MANLEY FORCE

Product overview

The MANLEY FORCE® delivers four channels of pure Class A tube gain: an all-tube microphone preamplifier derived from the award-winning MANLEY CORE® channel strip.

Each channel features a 12AX7 dual triode and a custom hand-wound MANLEY IRON® input transformer, providing the high-fidelity sound and distinctive sonic character that define MANLEY. Embodying the principle of "high voltage equals high headroom equals high fidelity", the FORCE offers a transparent, powerful front end for professional recording, from drums and live bands to vocals, acoustic instruments and tube DI.

Key features

• Four channels of all-tube, Class A microphone gain in 2U
• Custom hand-wound MANLEY IRON® input transformer on every channel
• One 12AX7WA dual triode per channel
• Switchable gain: 40 dB (LOW) or 50 dB (HI); 60 dB via internal jumper
• Phase reverse, 120 Hz high-pass filter and 48 V phantom power per channel
• Continuously variable input attenuator: a precision pad for gain staging
• Front-panel Hi-Z DIRECT IN for line and instrument signals
• Seven-segment LED metering and positive-action latching switches
• MANLEY Power® switch-mode supply, 90-254 V AC

Quality signal path for microphones and DI instruments

At the core of the FORCE is its all-tube, Class A topology. Each channel combines a custom-wound MANLEY IRON® input transformer with a 12AX7 dual triode vacuum tube, delivering wide dynamic range and rich harmonic detail. The dedicated front-panel Hi-Z input accepts line-level or instrument signals and routes them directly into the tube gain stage for tone shaping of electric guitars, basses and keyboards. If you use amp simulations in recording software, you can feel the difference when playing through a tube DI.

Intuitive workflow with professional-grade control

The FORCE is engineered for streamlined operation in demanding sessions. Each channel provides switchable gain at 40 dB or 50 dB, phase reverse and a 120 Hz high-pass filter. The continuously variable input attenuator on the front panel works as a precision pad for optimal gain staging. Seven-segment LED metering delivers clear visual monitoring, while positive-action latching switches ensure tactile, reliable control.

High voltage, high headroom

A regulated 300 V DC rail feeds the vacuum tubes, so the preamp handles very hot input signals without distorting or clipping. The result is a cleaner, more dynamic and more transparent sound, with +35 dBu maximum output and 31 dB of output headroom, that captures every nuance of a performance.

MANLEY Power®

The custom high-voltage switch-mode supply operates at frequencies well above the audible range for a cleaner, quieter signal path. It is more efficient and lets the FORCE operate anywhere in the world, from 90 V to 254 V AC, without voltage selection. AUTOMUTE keeps the outputs muted for 30 seconds while the tubes warm up.

In the box

• MANLEY FORCE four-channel microphone preamplifier

MANLEY FORCE: frequently asked questions

What is the primary application for the FORCE?

It is a main front end for multi-channel recording such as drums, live bands and ensembles, and an excellent choice for vocals, acoustic instruments and other sources that need a clean, punchy, professional sound. Its direct inputs make it a versatile tone-shaping tool for bass and keyboards too.

How does the Hi-Z input differ from the mic input?

The XLR mic input passes through the MANLEY IRON® transformer. The front-panel Hi-Z input is transformerless and sends line and instrument signals directly into the tube circuit, preserving the instrument's tone while keeping the all-tube signal path.

Can I use the FORCE with ribbon microphones?

Yes. With up to 60 dB of gain and a custom-wound MANLEY IRON® input transformer, it brings low-output ribbon microphones up to professional level without adding noise.

What are the gain options?

The front-panel switch gives 40 dB (LOW) and 50 dB (HI). An additional 10 dB is available via an internal jumper for 60 dB in total, and the INPUT LEVEL control acts as a variable pad.

Where can I buy the MANLEY FORCE in India?

The MANLEY FORCE is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Multi-miked drum kit

Four drum microphones into one tube front end.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the four microphones to INPUT 1-4.
2. Select LOW gain for loud close-miked sources.
3. Use INPUT LEVEL as a pad so the meter stays below the red LED.
4. Engage the 120 Hz filter on the overheads if needed.

Tip: Wait 30 seconds after switching on: AUTOMUTE unmutes the outputs when the tubes are warm.

Workflow 2: Lead vocal with a condenser microphone

A singer recorded through a clean, high-headroom tube channel.

Connections

Setup

1. Connect the microphone, then engage 48V PHANTOM with the monitors turned down.
2. Choose LOW or HI gain.
3. Set INPUT LEVEL for healthy metering.
4. Use phase reverse when combining with other microphones.

Tip: The 120 Hz high-pass filter removes stand rumble and proximity build-up.

Workflow 3: Ribbon microphones

Low-output ribbons on guitar cabinets, brass or room.

Connections

Setup

1. Keep 48V PHANTOM off unless the microphone needs it.
2. Select HI gain (50 dB).
3. Raise INPUT LEVEL for enough level.
4. Use the internal 60 dB jumper for very quiet sources (service work).

Tip: The MANLEY IRON® input transformer gives clean, quiet gain for ribbons.

Workflow 4: Tube DI for bass and keyboards

Instruments recorded straight into the tube stage.

Connections

Setup

1. Plug the instrument into DIRECT IN.
2. Choose LOW (20 dB) or HI (30 dB) gain.
3. Set INPUT LEVEL for the instrument's output.
4. Record the clean tube DI signal or re-amp it later.

Tip: DIRECT IN is transformerless with a 10 MΩ input impedance.

Workflow 5: Live band or ensemble tracking

Four sources recorded together in one room.

Connections

Setup

1. Assign one channel per source.
2. Set gain per channel with HI / LOW and INPUT LEVEL.
3. Check polarity between microphones with 180°.
4. Record all four channels.

Tip: Two FORCE units give eight matching channels in 4U.

Workflow 6: Stereo acoustic recording

A pair of microphones on acoustic guitar, piano or strings.

Connections

Setup

1. Set both channels to the same gain setting.
2. Match INPUT LEVEL on both channels using the meters.
3. Engage phantom power on both channels for condensers.
4. Use the remaining two channels for spot microphones.

Tip: The 20 Hz to 20 kHz response is flat within -0.1 / +0.3 dB.