VERTIGO SOUND VSP-2

Product overview

The VERTIGO SOUND VSP-2 is a two-channel, dual mono microphone preamplifier built around VERTIGO SOUND's fully discrete Twin Op Amp, the OPA 1976, with transformer-isolated inputs, stepped gain from 12 to 72 dB, a real DI instrument input and +24 dBu output.

The VSP-2 is VERTIGO SOUND's third big impact design. Its in-house discrete op amp is combined with a mic input transformer with a low 1:2 ratio, for a smooth, warm and defined sound from the lowest bass to the very top end. The transformer handles very high input levels with very linear phase behaviour, and its low ratio makes the discrete op amp provide most of the amplification: a 'pedal to the floor' circuit for a unique, rich, full and characterful sound.

Key features

• Fully discrete Twin OPA 1976 in each channel, built in house
• Transformer-isolated mic inputs, 1:2 ratio, 1.5 kΩ input impedance
• Gain 12 - 72 dB: 10-position rotary switch in 6 dB steps
• 41-click fine gain trim, 0 - 6 dB
• Low-cut input filter at 80 Hz or 120 Hz, 12 dB/oct
• Real DI instrument input straight into the Twin OPA, output muted while switching
• Ramped 48 V phantom power, -20 dB pad and phase reverse per channel
• Signal / clip LED per channel
• Electronically floating balanced outputs, +24 dBu into 600 Ω
• Noiseless linear power supply with toroidal transformer

The discrete OPA 1976

Most newer designs use an integrated circuit for this job. The VERTIGO SOUND 1976 is a fully discrete operational amplifier: a well thought-out classic circuit which, together with the input transformer, the coupling capacitors and the specific choice of components, gives a fresh, punchy, precise and colourful sound without sounding dull or nasty at any time.

Controls

Each channel has a stepped Gain switch and a Fine trim, a 120 Hz / Off / 80 Hz low-cut switch, and toggles for Instrument, 48 V, -20 dB and Phase. The LED shows green from -6 dBu to +19 dBu at the output and red at +19 dBu, close to clipping; the maximum output is +24 dBu, and the red LED marks the maximum input level of most common converters and analog gear.

Real DI input

The unbalanced instrument input for guitar, bass, samples and more goes directly to the Twin OPA input without any circuitry in between. Simply throw the toggle switch and play: the output is muted while switching to avoid loud clicks.

In the box

• VSP-2 dual mic preamp

VERTIGO SOUND VSP-2: frequently asked questions

How many channels does the VSP-2 have?

Two: it is a dual mono mic preamp with two identical, complete channels.

When should I use the -20 dB pad?

Use the pad with the gain settings 12, 18, 24 and 30 dB. It does not affect the sound or the input impedance, but high gain settings with the pad engaged worsen the signal-to-noise ratio.

Can I plug a guitar or bass straight in?

Yes. The instrument input is a real DI input that goes directly to the Twin OPA; throw the Instrument switch to use it.

Does the VSP-2 need ventilation space?

No, it generates very little heat, but its discrete op amps are sensitive to thermal and magnetic influences, so avoid mounting heat or magnetic stray-field generating devices directly above or below it.

Where can I buy the VERTIGO SOUND VSP-2 in India?

The VERTIGO SOUND VSP-2 is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Vocal recording

Singers and producers recording with condenser microphones.

Connections

Setup

1. Switch on 48 V.
2. Set Gain in 6 dB steps until the LED shows green.
3. Trim with Fine.
4. Engage the 80 Hz or 120 Hz low-cut if needed.

Tip: Red at +19 dBu marks the limit of most converters.

Workflow 2: Drums and loud sources

Close miking of kick, snare and amplifiers.

Connections

Setup

1. Engage the -20 dB pad.
2. Use gain settings of 12 - 30 dB.
3. Trim with Fine.
4. Check the LED stays green.

Tip: Avoid very high gain with the pad engaged.

Workflow 3: Guitar or bass DI

Players recording direct.

Connections

Setup

1. Plug in the instrument.
2. Throw the Instrument switch.
3. Set Gain and Fine.
4. Record.

Tip: The output is muted while switching to avoid clicks.

Workflow 4: Stereo pair

Overheads, pianos and room microphones.

Connections

Setup

1. Set both Gain switches to the same step.
2. Match with the Fine trims.
3. Apply the same low-cut.
4. Check polarity with the Phase switches.

Tip: Stepped gain makes settings easy to repeat.

Workflow 5: Two sources at once

Recording a singer-guitarist or two instruments.

Connections

Setup

1. Set each channel independently.
2. Use 48 V only where needed.
3. Use the instrument input on channel 2 for DI.
4. Record both.

Tip: Each channel is a complete dual mono preamp.

Workflow 6: Samples and keyboards with character

Producers re-amping samples or keyboards.

Connections

Setup

1. Plug the source into the instrument input.
2. Throw the Instrument switch.
3. Drive the gain to taste while watching the LED.
4. Record the result.

Tip: The instrument input goes straight into the discrete Twin OPA.