Combining a precisely matched octet of discrete bipolar transistors with a laser-trimmed DC-coupled FET-based output driver stage, the Millennia HV-3C is an entirely "double-balanced," extremely wide dynamic range stereo microphone preamplifier intended for demanding acoustic recording. Unlike "textbook" mic preamplifiers, the HV-3C signal path never unbalances or rebalances the original signal thus maintaining a high degree of signal integrity. Over 20,000 channels of HV-3 mic amps are already in use by a who's-who in critical acoustic recording. Unlike preamps using vacuum tubes, IC function modules and audio transformers (all of which can lend their own audio colouration) the Millennia HV-3C is precisely optimized towards capturing the subtlest detail of music and ambience. With +23 dBu native input headroom, the HV-3C requires no input pads, attenuators, or switch points as found on common textbook preamp designs - thus avoiding yet another source of sonic degradation. Moreover, with its +32 dBu output headroom, ultra-high dynamic stability and linearity is assured. NOTE: The HV-3C is a recently-updated version of the HV-3B two-channel mic preamp, with improved mechanical design and cosmetics, and standard 36-step gain control. HV-3C uses the identical preamps as found in the HV-3D 8-ch units. HV-3C signal path from input through output is entirely balanced with a minimum amplifier topology. Uncompromising circuit design with meticulous selection and hand-matching of critical components assures consistently transparent audio performance at all dynamic excursions and frequency extensions.
