George Massenburg Labs Shows Model 2020 Input Channel at AES

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George Massenburg Labs (GML) has combined the elements of the its three most popular processors to create the Model 2020 High Resolution Discrete Input Channel, providing users with peerless microphone pre- amplification, filtering, equalization, and dynamics processing in a two-rack space unit. Manley Laboratories (Chino, California) is manufacturing the Model 2020, in conjunction with GML, as part of the high-end manufacturers' recent alliance. The product is in production and now shipping.

The Model 2020 is a single-channel input processor and accepts either microphone or line-level signals with phase reversal and phantom power switches. The switching, filtering, equalization, and dynamics sections allow for flexible routing (including side-chain insertion) to accommodate any recording situation. Like all GML processors, it features discrete-transistor, balanced/symmetrical class-A op-amps which deliver the widest-bandwidth, lowest-noise, and the most extended-dynamic-range audio signal possible.

"We designed the Model 2020 based on the 8300 preamplifier, 8200 parametric equalizer, and 8900 dynamics processor," noted George Massenburg, GML CEO and original inventor of the parametric equalizer. "The designs are the result of decades of research, prototyping, manufacturing, listening to users and then subsequent alterations in our enduring drive towards engineering completely transparent audio processing. We conceived of the Model 2020 in response to the growing trend in 'front-end' processing, where a premium is placed on signal processing before the signal hits tape or, even more often, A/D converters. Because such uses often call for only a channel or two at a time, there's a need for processing power that's long on features (such as exquisite preamplification, equalization, and dynamics processing) and not so long on channels. It's a balance between use, features, and price point, and the Model 2020 fits the niche perfectly."