Sound Performance Lab Gain Station 2272 - Manual (Page 22)

22 GainStation 1
Next to the obvious recording or sound reinforcement appli-
cations, the GainStation 1 is also extremely interesting as an
instrument preamp for musicians. Bassists can go through it
directly into a power amp, resulting in a sound that is hard
to achieve with standard bass preamps, with unparalleled
punch, detail and dynamic. (An electric bass was used exten-
sively during development as a „test generator“.) Using the FET
limiter results in an extremely compact bass sound, which can
usually get by without additional compression. On stage, the
GainStation signal can be fed directly to the FOH console. Be
sure that the console has a pad activated to prevent clipping.
The GainStation 1 is a much better choice for acoustic guitar
than standard DI boxes, which rarely have high enough imped-
ance to effectively amplify low-level pickup signals. With
the GainStation 1, guitars sound much more transparent and
dynamic—subtle string transients and harmonics are repro-
duced with amazing detail to create a harmonious, colorful
sound.
Keyboardists also benefit from the GainStation 1‘s excellent
sonic characteristics. On stage, the keyboard signal often runs
through a DI and then through endless lengths of cable. By
using the GS1 as a preamp and connecting its output directly
to the stage box, the FOH console receives a much healthier
signal, so it—and the engineer—can do their work effectively.
Due to its compact format, the GainStation 1 can almost always
be placed in an ergonomic position without being in the way.
The following section, while not attempting to represent a
complete guide or answer all questions, provides several oper-
ational tips for various instruments.
Application examples