Frontliner

The flagship channel strip.

The Frontliner has all tools on board to record vocals and instruments in perfect quality: it merges a preamp, a de-esser, an EQ, a compressor and tube saturation.

Thanks to it’s individual analog I/Os, all these powerful, hi-end analog processors can be use not only while recording but also during mixing. The Frontliner is therefore not reduced to a front-end device. Especially DAW based studios can integrate high-grade analog processing at any stage of the audio production process.

This version of the SPL Frontliner channel strip boasts the same impressive functionality of the standard Frontliner, and it adds a two-channel A/D converter with 24-bit/192kHz resolution for more connectivity options. Its modular nature, with individual analog ins and outs for the preamp, de-esser, compressor/limiter, and EQ/tube saturation sections, means the Frontliner also represents four outstanding hardware processors in one. The rich, clear sound is ideal for everything from music recording to voiceovers and broadcast. Capture polished recordings on the way in, then take advantage of four world-class analog processors during mixdown with the SPL Frontliner modular channel strip.

SPL Frontliner Channel Strip at a Glance:

• Top-shelf components and design for outstanding sound
• Built-in 2-channel A/D converter for more routing options
• A versatile front end for agile studio performance
• Easily fits into your studio

Top-shelf components and design for outstanding sound

Time to get geeky: the SPL Frontliner boasts a discrete semiconductor/tube hybrid preamplifier that combines the best characteristics of solid-state and tube preamp technologies. You get the high dynamic range and low-noise operation of semiconductor-based preamps, with the appealing highs and beautiful spatial impression that tubes provide. The preamp and tube saturation stages of the Frontliner operate at 250 volts for ample headroom and excellent transient response. Renowned Burr-Brown op-amps are used to regulate voltage throughout the signal path. Even the wiring follows a central-star grounding scheme that minimizes electrical noise and interference. From input to output, the SPL Frontliner has obviously been designed by engineers who know how world-class sound quality is achieved.

Built-in 2-channel A/D converter for more routing options

This Frontliner is equipped with the optional analog to digital converter right out of the box. This allows you to send the output of the Frontliner digitally into your recording system, and it also effectively turns your Frontliner into a two-input front end: just plug any line-level signal into the AD Input on the back panel. While you may not use it on every session, at some point you will find yourself in a routing situation where the additional A/D capabilities on this Frontliner get you out of a jam. Digital outputs include S/PDIF and optical, with sync available via a dedicated S/PDIF input.

• Modular channel strip with preamp, de-esser, comp/limiter, and EQ/tube saturation sections
• Built-in 2-channel A/D converter for digital connectivity (S/PDIF, optical)
• Excellent dynamic range and low-noise performance from the discrete solid-state/tube hybrid preamp design
• Individual analog I/O for each section allows you to use processors separately during mixdown
• Auto-mode on the compressor can still be influenced by the attack/release controls for fine-tuned response
• Dual outputs allow you to feed 2 destinations simultaneously, for example a front of house mixing board and a monitor mixer for live performance
• Tube +15dB switch increases the degree of tube amplification for enhanced harmonic richness
• A great workhorse solution for project studios, pro studios, and broadcast
• Top-shelf components and circuit design for outstanding sonic quality

Record and mix better tracks with the SPL Frontliner modular channel strip!

Tech Specs