SPL - Sound Performance Lab Elector - Version 1.1 Analog Preamplifier

SPL - Elector - Version 1.1

The latest development around the SPL Elector is announced with joy - version 1.1 is now available. In this new hardware revision, users can expect some notable updates. Particularly noteworthy are the well-known functions 'Slave Thru' and 'Home Theater Bypass', which are already used successfully in the Director Mk2.2.

Version 1.1 of the Elector integrates two pairs of stereo outputs that are specially designed for connecting power amplifiers or active loudspeakers. One pair of outputs is available with XLR connectors, while the other pair is equipped with RCA outputs. Despite the different connections, both pairs transmit the same output signal. The volume is regulated centrally via a large volume control on the Elector. This opens up the possibility of supplying a pair of loudspeakers via one of the stereo outputs, while the second output can be used for a subwoofer. The playback volume is adjusted simultaneously for both stereo outputs via the central volume control.

A notable feature of the Version 1.1 Elector is the use of DIP switches on the rear of the unit. These enable the volume control for the cinch and XLR outputs to be switched off separately. This mode, known as 'Slave Thru', can be used to connect, for example, a headphone amplifier with its own volume control.

Another impressive new feature is the 'Home Theater Bypass', which is available from hardware revision 1.1. This feature allows the Elector to be used in conjunction with a multi-channel home theater system. The L and R channels of this home cinema system can simply be connected to input 6 of the Elector. If the 'Home Theater Bypass' is activated (DIP 4), the signal is unaffected by the volume control of the Elector.

In summary, the SPL Elector in hardware revision 1.1 offers a range of settings via a four-way DIP switch. This allows adjustments such as fixing the levels for RCA and XLR outputs, controlling the AMP CTL connection and the 'Home Theater Bypass' for input 6.

The update to hardware revision 1.1 can be identified by the 'Elector 1.1' label in the lower left corner of the device rear panel and by the four-way DIP switch. However, it should be noted that this hardware modification cannot be retrofitted to previous versions of the Elector.

Technical information summarized

Stereo output pairs: The Elector version 1.1 is equipped with two stereo output pairs, which can be used to connect power amplifiers or active loudspeakers.

Connections: One pair of outputs are fitted with XLR connectors, while the other pair feature RCA outputs. Both pairs carry the same audio signal.

Volume control: The playback volume for both stereo outputs is set using a large volume control on the Elector.

Slave thru function: The volume control for cinch and XLR outputs can be switched separately from the signal path using DIP switches on the rear of the device, for example to connect a headphone amplifier with its own volume control.

Home Theater Bypass: Starting with hardware revision 1.1, the Elector allows the use of the "Home Theater Bypass" which allows connection to a multi-channel home theater system. The signal from the L and R channels of this system is connected directly to the Elector's Input 6 and is not affected by the Elector's volume control.

Quadruple DIP switches: The hardware revision 1.1 Elector is equipped with a quadruple DIP switch that allows the following basic settings:

• DIP switch 1 – RCA Fixed: adjustability of the level of the RCA PREAMP OUTPUTS.
• DIP switch 2 – XLR Fixed: adjustability of the level of the XLR PREAMP OUTPUTS.
• DIP Switch 3 - AMP CTL High: Toggles the AMP CTL pin between low and high current.
• DIP Switch 4 - Input 6 Thru [HT Mode]: Enable Home Theater Bypass for Input 6.

Hardware Revision Identification: The updated hardware revision can be identified by the “Elector 1.1” label in the lower left corner on the rear panel and by the 4-way DIP switch.

Please note that this hardware modification cannot be retrofitted to previous versions of the Elector.