LPZ-2 – Line to Mic Level Adaptor
LPZ2 input
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LPZ2 output
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Features
- Converts Line level signal to a Mic level to make any mic-pre a line amp
- XLR/TRS combo Input, XLR Output
- Selectable -36dBu or -24dBu attenuation for both DAW and Tape Machine levels
- Output impedances 150Ω @ -36dBu, or 600Ω @ -24dBu
- Patented Xsolate® Ground Lift System for correct and safe way to lift ground
- Steel chassis with durable finish
- Small rubber feet
The LPZ-2 allows the user to connect the high level outputs from a DAW to a microphone preamplifier by attenuating the signal and by providing the correct load and source impedance for best audio transmission.
Excellent for testing preamps with any music from a balanced line source.
It also features a patented ground lift to isolate connected systems from each other.
Note that the LPZ-2 should only be used in balanced audio systems.
LPZ-2
| Attenuation (Output Impedance) | -36dBu (150Ω output) / -24dBu (600Ω output) |
| Frequency Response | 0Hz – 200kHz (-1dB) |
| Input Impedance | 10kΩ |
| Distortion | Input dependent |
| Noise | Passive; same as source |
| XLR/TRS pins | Pin 1/Sleeve = shield, Pin 2/Tip = Hot+, Pin 3/Ring = Cold- |
| Chassis Dimensions | 3.5″ x 3.5″ x 15″ Steel construction |
| Weight | 1 lbs. |
FAQ
Why would I need the LPZ-2?
Microphone preamplifiers come in many designs and topologies today and having them to use as your line amp imparts additional coloration to an otherwise digital mix. In fact, many of the vintage consoles did a similar thing when bus signals were attenuated about -36dB’s and made to have a microphone impedance of around 150Ω.
The idea first came to us with knowing how well a mix sounded going through the MA5 preamp. We sometimes test and audition mic-pre’s using the LPZ setup with music we are familiar with going through it, and it helps to reveal some things in the spectrum that may be hidden.
When would I use the different attenuation settings?
Usually you will be using -36dBu with line level output from the D/A converter. This level could be as high as +21dBu so it will need to be attenuated enough for a mic-pre to be useful. The output impedance of this setting is consistently held at 150Ω
The -24dBu attenuation setting is mostly for tape machine, ADAT, DAT, or older digital medium. The output impedance increases to 600Ω at this setting which is still low enough for returning back to the A/D converter
When would I need to use the ground lift?
After you plug your converter into the XLR or TRS inputs of the LPZ-2, and the outputs to a matched pair of mic-pres, you should turn levels up and listen carefully for any ground loop type noise. Switch the ground lift and see if there’s a difference if you hear noise. Keep in mind that the LPZ-2 will safely disconnect one ground system from another but if there are other ground paths to the two devices being connected, then lifting the ground will make little or no difference.
Can I plug my guitar or bass into this?
The LPZ-2 is to be used only in balanced audio. If you use it with unbalanced sources, you will have difference attenuation levels depending on the source impedance, and noises will be higher. Use the LPZ-2 only with balanced source and loads.
What’s the input impedance of the LPZ-2?
The input impedance is 10kΩ
This makes it easy to drive with any converter or tape machine
Is it made Lead-free?
Yes, the LPZ-2 is made using lead-free solder and lead-free PCB.
