VOXBOX® – Reference Channel Strip
The VOXBOX® combines the legendary Manley Mono Mic Preamp, the ELOP reborn as a lower ratio compressor, the MID EQ blown out as a full range PEAK-DIP-PEAK EQ, and a DeEsser with a second ELOP limiter at the end. Using the Direct Input, bass players often wonder why it wasn’t named the BASSBOX.
It Looks Awesome, But What Is It?
Primarily, it is a voice processor which in itself is not a novel idea, but the time had come to pull out all the stops and make a truly professional high-end statement. One that covered the needs of the project songwriters and big-time major studios alike. One whose all-tube signal path could bring every instrument and overdub to life. One that, plain and simple, sounded unquestionably better than the rest, provided flexibility, simplicity, and well thought-out ergonomics. Full of features, timeless style, robust build quality, and that world-famous “Manley Sound”, we present to you the MANLEY VOXBOX®.
What’s It Good For?
While we were designing the VOXBOX® we couldn’t help but notice how well it works on other instruments besides voice. There are some great settings for drums, bass, guitar, and keys and the two separate sections can be used together or independently. Stereo using two VOXBOXes? You know we couldn’t resist planning for that as well. There are Stereo Links for both the compressor and the De-Ess/Limiter sections, special compression settings and super-sweet EQ frequencies for your mix or pre-mastering. So don’t just use it for voice. The name “VOXBOX®” represents only the beginning…
Microphone Preamplifier Section
- The preamplifier is a clone of the highly regarded Manley Mono Microphone Preamplifier.
- The mic input transformer is designed and wound in-house at Manley Labs.
- High current 48V Phantom power is switchable from the front panel.
- A passive BASS CUT switch kills rumble and reduces popping.
- The INPUT ATTENUATOR is a variable pad control situated before the first tube stage.
- Both transformer balanced XLR output and a transformerless 1/4″ phone jack output are provided.
- The Gain switch changes the gain, slew rate, and flavor of the circuit.
- Headroom is +31dBu capable, which is 5 to 10 dB better than almost all other pro gear.
Compressor Section
- This compressor design takes the opto-isolator approach of the Manley ELOP® Limiter to the max.
- The Ratio is adjusted down to 3:1, turning the ELOP into a compressor.
- Includes ATTACK and RELEASE controls for more versatility.
- Compresses the signal before it hits the tubes, with no detrimental effect on distortion or frequency response.
- New thinking in the sidechain using up to four different time constants simultaneously.
- Provides fresh sounds from powerhouse punching drums to super-solid bass.
- Transparent and liquid-smooth on vocals, easy to use, and accurate.
EQ Section
- Includes the Pultec Mid Frequency Equalizer, extended to 33 frequencies in 3 bands.
- Real inductors provide bottom end magic and Class A circuitry keeps the top end sweet.
- The EQ INPUT switch patches in the Line Input, Preamp Output, or the INSERT return.
De-Esser & Limiter Section
- Includes a de-esser & peak limiter based on the original ELOP® Limiter design.
- Features a passive LC network to handle the de-essing with four notch frequencies from 3KHz to 12KHz.
- The fifth position gives you a limiter which mimics the famous LA-2A.
- Allows you to insert the de-esser silently and smoothly as the music plays.
The Meter
- The METER is a full size illuminated Sifam VU meter.
- A five-position switch shows three audio levels: the line input, the preamp output and the final output.
- Shows compressor gain reduction and the de-esser/limiter action.
- Includes warm-up muting circuitry, extensive magnetic field containment, ‘smart-grounding’, and silent switching.
Details
- Update: As of late 2021, the VOXBOX now incorporates our MANLEY POWER® Switch-Mode Power Supply.
- The MANLEY POWER® power supply is an innovative design developed specifically for Manley Labs.
- Provides 300 Volt DC rails to run the vacuum tubes, beefy 6 Volt lines to power them up.
- Several other voltage rails for the phantom power and various solid-state control voltages.
- High Voltage = High Headroom, providing massive audio excellence starting with this superior power supply.
- All lines are importantly regulated, low impedance, efficient, and super-quiet in this low radiating high frequency design.
- The universal mains input accepts any voltage or frequency from anywhere in the world making travel with the VOXBOX a breeze.
