Preamp/line mixer help?

mdiddium · #1 03-21-2008, 09:50 AM

Hi everyone,
This is my first post on TB, although I frequently read the threads and really enjoy all the advice people have to offer. Here is my situation...

I have three sources that I want to run through my amp (Aguilar AG 500):
1. Active EBMM 5 String
2. Passive Lakland HB
3. Micromoog synth (playing basslines)

Obviously these all have different output levels, and I need to get them all to a common level before it hits the amp so I can seamlessly switch between sources live (I don't really have enough time in between tunes to worry about unplugging cables and muting things). Also, I would like this to be in a relatively small box that I can put on my pedalboard so I can run the output of whatever magical box this is through all of my effects pedals (i.e. a rack mounting preamp/line mixer won't work). I have researched the Raven Labs MDB-1 which seems to be the magic box that will do everything I want (and more) but since they are out of production, it seems to be really difficult to get a hold of one besides just hoping to jump on a used one if it comes around. I also don't necessarily need the DI or send/return features that it offers. Does anyone know of another company that makes something similar? Thanks again.

bongomania · #2 03-21-2008, 10:12 AM

The Lehle 3@1 is very good but expensive (in the US). It takes three inputs; switches between them noiselessly; has passive volume attenuator pots on two of the channels in order to bring all three to the same general level; and sends the signal to two parallel buffered outputs. (I used one output for my tuner and the other to my amp.)

mdiddium · #3 03-21-2008, 10:48 AM

Thanks for the insight about Lehle, that might be exactly what I need. When I did a search I saw you that have/had (?) one for sale. Still have it?

bongomania · #4 03-21-2008, 12:45 PM

Oops, I must have forgotten to close that thread, it is sold already. The only reasons I sold it though are (a) I wanted to buy their 1@3 instead for my current purposes, and (b) I wanted their newer version with the trimpots on the exterior instead of the interior. Otherwise I was very happy with its quality and functionality.

Colonel Monk · #5 03-29-2008, 10:04 PM

I checked out the Lehles, but for what you're getting they seem pretty pricey.

I use one or two basses, and currently my Little Phatty synth for some kickass drones and whatnot in my setup.

I've borrowed a EHX Mini Mixer from a friend to support this currently, but I don't really want it in my signal chain as it doesn't seem well built. Too many gain controls, and I have no need for eq on this.

So is there anything else you guys are aware of in the minimalist spirit of the Lehle?

Thanks,

bongomania · #6 03-29-2008, 11:07 PM

You could ask Barge if they can make something like that for you. I don't know if they have worked much with relay switching though.

rekesbass · #7 03-30-2008, 07:29 AM

search for a company called Rolls..I'm pretty sure they make a mini mixer

Colonel Monk · #8 03-30-2008, 10:01 AM

Thanks, Guys.

Both good suggestions. I've been meaning to try Barge out anyway - they seem to be the affordable "experts" at dealing with signal chain.

The rolls stuff looks OK too - just want to make sure I don't ruin my bass signal with equipment that's not meant to be there.

out,

Col. Monk

Shindig · #9 03-30-2008, 10:27 AM

My situation was exactly the same. When I got my AG500 I had to find a way to run 3 instruments thru 1 input. I now use a Raven Labs MDB-1 and it works great. Small, great tone, and reliable. Good luck!

4Mal · #10 03-30-2008, 10:33 AM

Why not work with a small mixer ? I use an m-audio Mixim 10 to combine electric bass and key's I either mute with a tuner or just turn the vol down on the bass when putting it down. The mixer lives on top of my rack when I need it.

bongomania · #11 03-30-2008, 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Colonel Monk

I've borrowed a EHX Mini Mixer from a friend to support this currently, but I don't really want it in my signal chain as it doesn't seem well built. Too many gain controls, and I have no need for eq on this.

^^^ So a mixer that is high quality and doesn't have extra gain stages (noise/distortion sources) would fit the bill. I can think of some nice ones, but they are in the same price ballpark as the Lehle.

Colonel Monk · #12 03-30-2008, 11:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bongomania

^^^ So a mixer that is high quality and doesn't have extra gain stages (noise/distortion sources) would fit the bill. I can think of some nice ones, but they are in the same price ballpark as the Lehle.

Yeah, I know. I'm suffering the latent consequences of a severe GAS attack over the past few months. You know, one of those where you have flat leveled your savings trying to get there, and yet without spending several hundred more you're not there yet.

Don't get me wrong, I own and support quality gear and manufacturers, but sometimes those mfrs price high just because nobody else has a product offering. (supply/demand).

So yeah, I want something better than the EHX (around $60) but if possible less than $325 for the Lehle. Something like that....

mdiddium · #13 04-02-2008, 03:46 PM

Definitely some great suggestions, and I'm happy to find others in a similar situation as me looking for answers. I've been talking with Barge Concepts about some of these issues. They do offer pedals that have active buffering level matching, but nothing like Lehle in terms of stomp-box switching capability. Another issue I'd like to bring up is the active vs. passive debate. In this scenario, would there be audible consequences of having active and passive instruments going into the Lehle and having to trim them? Obviously the active signal will have to be trimmed, but this seems like it will effect the output impedance. Is this something to be concerned about? What are the pros and cons of the Lehle 3@1 as opposed to the Raven Labs MDB-1?