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Congratulations! You just purchased one of the most useful audio tools for digital audio
recording, C valve from Samson Audio. The C valve is a high quality microphone/instrument
tube pre-amplifier offering a tremendous amount of transparent gain with a pristine audio
path that terminates in both balanced analog and S/PDIF digital outputs. By using discreet
transistor pre-amp topology, along with the warmth from the incorporation of the12AX7 tube,
the C valve takes advantage of the latest technology, together with time proven circuit tech-
nique. The result; a super clean pre-amp for microphones or instruments with the warmth
and personality of a classic unit, which makes C valve the perfect tracking device for any
recording situation. And, with the SATURATION control you can dial up specific amounts of
harmonics that are right for your recording or performance. An optical limiter with a musical
response is built into C valve, which will help you get a good level to your mixer or recorder.
The C valve also features a variable LOW-CUT filter and a musical ENHANCE circuit to add
a pleasant “high-frequency lift” to the overall sound. To monitor your input levels, the C valve
features a six segment LED bar VU meter, along with a classic analog circular VU meter,
which displays the output level. In order to bridge the classic sound of the warm mic-pre to
today’s digital audio world, the C valve features a high quality, 24Bit, A to D converter with a
selectable sample rate of 48 or 96K feeding the S/PDIF digital output . In addition, two C
valve’s can be linked together to make a stereo mic-pre with digital out. The C valve is a
perfect addition to any recording studio, especially those using computer based hard disk
recorders, as well as for live use to capture that studio sound live.
Although this unit is designed for easy operation, we suggest you take some time out first to
go through these pages so you can fully understand how we’ve implemented a number of
unique features. In this manual, you’ll find a more detailed description of the features of the
C valve, as well as a guided tour through the front and rear panels, step-by-step instructions
for using the C valve and full specifications. You’ll also find a warranty card enclosed—
please don’t forget to fill it out and mail it so that you can receive online technical support
and so we can send you updated information about other Samson products in the future.
With proper care and adequate air circulation, your C valve will operate trouble free for
many years. We recommend you record your serial number in the space provided below for
future reference.
Serial number:
Date of purchase:
Should your unit ever require servicing, a Return Authorization number (RA) must be
obtained before shipping your unit to Samson. Without this number, the unit will not be
accepted. Please call Samson at 1-800-3SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) for a Return
Authorization number prior to shipping your unit. Please retain the original packing materials
and if possible, return the unit in the original carton and packing materials.
Introduction