tubedrve mastering

The tubedrve is a stereo tube saturator module for the API 500 series also known as the ‘lunchbox’ format.

This mastering version is the same as the original tubedrve, but with indented/stepped controls for easier recall and stereo matching. It also has a low gain setting which provides an extra -10dB of gain which comes in handy when using it on the mixbus or when mastering.

The tubedrve utilises 2 pentode tubes per channel, for a total of 4 tubes per module. The first one is an EF86 and the second one a 6AS6. The 6AS6 tubes is overdriven, providing the distortion.

The 6AS6 can be switched from pentode to triode operation. Triode mode provides a smoother type of overdrive with more ‘even harmonics’. Pentode mode gives an aggressive distortion with more ‘odd harmonics’.

Switchable bypass and a mix knob for parallel processing provide pro audio requirements. The two channels are controlled independently from one another.

The module can be controlled with an input or ‘drive’ level, controlling the audio signal going to the tubes. A bias control sets the operating point for the distortion tube, allowing the user to control the bias current. With high and low settings this introduces asymmetrical waveform clipping, providing a more aggressive sound.

Input gain can be selected with a 3-way switch and finetuned with the input knob. An output level control controls the level coming from the tubes.

A simplified overview of how the tubedrve works can be found in the manual at the bottom of this page.

parallel mixing

The mix knob provides full dry and wet operation, allowing for parallel processing. This is a great feature to have in a saturator since they tend to compress audio. Parallel processing allows the user to dial in the exact amount of saturation they want and provides full control over dynamics.

A white led lights up when the distortion tube is being overdriven. Furthermore there is a bypass switch which switches the module out using relays for complete bypass.

An anodised black aluminium frontpanel is used, providing a long and lasting finish.

“This is essential for anyone after that saturation sound that only tubes provide, and it easily competes against – in some cases beats – saturation units I’ve owned costing 3-5x more” – Lorn, electronic musician

high voltage

Plate voltage for the tubes is 240VDC, due to a DC-DC converter which generates the high voltage from the +- 16V power supply of the API 500 format. This is needed for the best possible overdrive sound. This is unlike other designs which use the +48V supply for the plate voltage, which leads to a ‘starved plate’ sound. The +240VDC plate supply in this design allows for the best possible tube overdrive sound.

NOS (‘New Old Stock’) tubes are used, meaning they are unused tubes manufactured in the 70s or 80s.

Tubedrve has the following power consumption. Please check if your 500 rack and complement of other modules can provide this: (+16V = 200mA, -16V = 150mA, per slot).

pricing

The tubedrve mastering is priced at 709 euros, excl. any applicable sales tax. They are assembled by hand in small batches.

files

Tubedrve manual

Tech specs

Panel design for recall sheets