New to the 500 Series

[yeluhz_strongs]

Hey everyone,

I'm new to the 500 series and I'm looking for some advice.
I've been doing a lot of research for the past month on preamps (looking to buy my first ever!) and I finally narrowed it down to the Chandler Limited TG2.

I'm looking for a preamp for every application and vocal is on the top of the list.

However, I have been reading about the 500 series and its development, and it seems like such a great way to expand your arsenal! From customizing it to cater a specific project to portability of all your gear.

I'm really contemplating if I should hold out and wait for the Radial Workhorse, buy the API Lunchbox or just get the TG2.

For double the price of the API, the Radial has a lot of connectivity options--worth it?

Also, the TG2 sounds amazing--if I decided to go the 500 route, what would be a good starting preamp? I've checked out the MA5, P-1, and Germanium 500 (but what's the issue with the power supply?).

Any words of guidance will be appreciated,
Thanks

[pan60]

i would not worry about the power supply.
their are only a few unit that have a currant draw hat Exceeds the VPR ALLIANCE guidelines, and short of a rack full of them no really need to even give it much of a thought.
i would however recommend that you educate your self as to what the current draw for each unit you are looking at is, just so you can know what you have.
the VPR ALLIANCE allow for 130 ma of draw per slot + and - at 16 volts. a six slot lunch box way more then covers that.
most units will be far below that and a few are just a hair about, so you should not have any reason for concern.
the MA5 and the P-1 are awesome pre and will complement each other very well, great starting point.
lots of flavors and so many rock it is hard to recommend one over the other, for what i do the P-1 get rode hard here, but it ain't the only pony in the stable, and they ALL get a chance to stretch the legs: )~
pan
:eek::eek::eek:

[yeluhz_strongs]

thanks for the response pan,
i'll look into the Current draw for the units i'm interested in.
I read that the ma5 uses 75 ma, guess that's no problem for the lunchbox!

do you think its a good idea to wait for the radial workhorse as oppose to the api box?

[pan60]

i have a MA5 in my lunchbox with no issues at all.
i think you are allowed 130 ma +/- at 16 volts DC
the MA5 if i correctly recall is 150 ma but it is not a issue, most units are half that.
if you had a rack full of MA5's you might AND I SAY MIGHT have a inrush current issue but i would be surprised if you did?
the MA5 dose have a big inrush current but as i say it is not really a issue at least not for me.
i love the MA5 and do recommend it as one of the pre to addition when guys are looking at getting into the 500 format.