Elysia skulpter2 qube

A 500 Series module that goes beyond the role of a preamp

The elysia skulpter 500 combines microphone amplification, instrument input, tonal color shaping and compression in a single module. Its approach prioritizes a carefully designed analog signal path and controls that can be used directly during recording. Rather than multiplying external processors, it allows you to build a sound from the moment of recording, while retaining an open and natural character when the processing is not engaged.

For vocals, instruments and line sources

This mic preamp with DI and compressor is designed for studios that want to move quickly from vocals to bass, guitar or synthesizer. The high-impedance DI input preserves passive-pickup instruments, while its ability to accept high levels also allows it to process balanced or unbalanced line signals.

During recording, the high-pass filter helps reduce rumble, while the compression stabilizes level variations. In mixing, the Shape functions provide a way to add density to a source. Separate storage of the mic and DI gains makes it easy to switch instruments without losing the amplification settings specific to each input.

Precise amplification and a choice of tonal color

Gain adjustment via switched resistors

The skulpter uses fixed resistors switched by a cascade of relays and electronic switches. The encoder, with 20 detents per revolution, provides access to 40 gain values in 1.5 or 2 dB steps. The active gain setting is saved when the unit is switched off and recalled at the next session. When switching from the mic input to the DI, the corresponding setting is recalled automatically.

Two Shape modes for working with the source

Shape One mode, intended for instruments, combines harmonic enhancement and a filtering curve to add body without aggressive peaks. The intensity of the saturation depends on the input level and preamp gain. Shape Two mode, designed for vocals, uses progressive saturation with a response similar to a tube curve: peaks are softened by soft clipping rather than turned into pronounced distortion.

Musical compression without complex settings

The built-in compressor has a single knob that adjusts the threshold. Its fixed 3:1 ratio and progressive knee promote subtle action. The Class A discrete audio circuit is paired with an RMS detector optimized for vocals and instruments. The Auto Fast function automatically shortens the attack when strong impulses or transients require it.

Controls designed for studio sessions

The variable high-pass filter, adjustable from 10 to 375 Hz with a 12 dB-per-octave slope, allows precise low-frequency cleanup. Its Class A discrete amplifier prioritizes transparency. Polarity reversal does not introduce any additional inverting stage into the audio path; a brief interruption accompanies the switching to prevent clicks.

Mute immediately cuts the output when changing a cable, microphone or instrument. It also engages briefly at startup and when the phantom power state changes. Generated within the module, this 48 V power supply does not depend on the quality of the one in the chassis being used. Activating or deactivating it requires holding the button for two seconds to limit accidental operation.

Finally, the 15-LED display brings together the essential information: input clipping, compression intensity and output level. Pressing the encoder temporarily turns the level meter into a gain indicator, with readings shown on the dedicated scale.

Technical specifications

Number of channels	2	Nominal mode power consumption (Wh)	8 W
EQ	High-pass filter

Type	high-end analog preamp in 500-series format.	Compressor	Class A discrete circuit, RMS detector, threshold adjustable via a single potentiometer.
Gain control	fixed resistors switched by relays and electronic switches.	Compression ratio	3:1, with a progressive knee.
Total gain range	3 to 65 dB.	Auto Fast	automatic reduction of attack time on significant impulses and transients.
Resolution	40 values, in 1.5 or 2 dB steps.	Polarity inversion	without an additional inverting amplifier, with automatic muting for a few milliseconds during switching.
Encoder	20 detents per rotation.	Frequency response at 3 dB of gain	10 Hz to 170 kHz at -3 dB.
Memory	separate mic and DI gains, automatic recall when changing input, and gain backup when powered off.	Frequency response at 29 dB of gain	10 Hz to 170 kHz at -3 dB.
DI input	JFET technology, on the front panel, accepting balanced and unbalanced signals.	THD+N at +6 dBu, from 20 Hz to 22 kHz	0.007% at 3 dB of gain and 0.007% at 29 dB of gain.
Maximum mic input level	+19 dBu.	Noise floor from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, A-weighted	-97 dBu at 3 dB of gain and -93 dBu at 29 dB of gain.
Maximum DI input level	+19 dBu.	Common-mode rejection, at +6 dBu output and 29 dB of gain	+87 dB at 1 kHz and +69 dB at 10 kHz.
Mic input impedance	13.6 kilohms.	Multifunction display	15 LEDs, including 13 for output level, one for input clipping, and one for compression intensity.
DI input impedance	1 megohm.	Variable brightness	progressive indication of levels, overload, and compression.
Output impedance	62 ohms.	Gain display	accessible by pressing the encoder, with a dedicated scale.
Shape One	harmonic saturation and instrument-optimized filter curve.	Mute	immediate output cutoff, also briefly activated at startup.
Shape Two	progressive saturation and vocal-optimized filter curve, with soft clipping.	Phantom power	48 V generated in the module; activated by pressing and holding for two seconds, with temporary output cutoff.
Low-cut filter	variable frequency from 10 to 375 Hz, 12 dB-per-octave slope, Class A discrete amplifier.