Hardy 500?

[cww2]

I've heard some scuttle about John Hardy coming out with a 500 pre - anyone know any details?

[John Hardy]

I'm planning on three preamp cards that will be similar to my existing preamps:

1. An M-1 type of card
2. An M-2 type of card
3. A Jensen Twin Servo type of card.

The Jensen Twin Servo is the first one that will be available, simply because it is the most difficult (two 990C op-amps per channel compared to one for the other preamps). The design is almost complete, but I have some software issues to deal with. It's a long story, but I'm using an obscure CAD program that does not have the ability to output "Gerber" files (p.c. board fabrication files). I need to add that, then get it done. I've been stuck at this point for quite a while, but hope to get it finished very soon.

Any suggestions are welcome. Thank you very much.

John Hardy
The John Hardy Co.
www.johnhardyco.com

[cww2]

Very cool. Thank you for the kind reply. Looking forward to updates as your progress continues.

Chase

[LunchBoxHero]

John, thanks so much for the update and for joining the forum. We are honored to have your participation here at lunchboxhero and I am looking forward to having a Hardy pre in my lunchbox. :D

James
lbh

[LunchBoxHero]

Just a note - The database has been updated to include John's upcoming products. :D

John, please let me know if there is any other info that you want included at this time.

James
LBH

[John Hardy]

James;

Thanks for the listings in the database. Regarding the input and output transformer listings, all three preamps will use the Jensen JT-16-B input transformer, same as used in my M-1, M-2 and Jensen Twin Servo. This is Jensen's best input model. It has an 80% nickel core. The output transformer will be the Jensen JT-11-DM, which is one size smaller than the JT-11-BMQ that I use in the M-1, M-2 and Jensen Twin Servo. Since the Lunchbox format uses approximately +/-16VDC power supplies compared to the +/-24VDC supplies of my regular preamps, the smaller output transformer is appropriate. Both models are Jensen's best output transformers in their particular size. These output transformers are also 80% nickel.

The JT-16-B has a 1:2 turns ratio, the JT-11-DM and JT-11-BMQ have a 1:1 ratio. The ratio specs are important, and I think that most people don't realize it. The lower the ratio of the input transformer, the better it performs (wider bandwidth, more linear and extended phase response, lower distortion, etc.). The tradeoff is that you get less voltage gain from the lower ratio. The ratio of the input transformer should be matched to the noise characteristics of the op-amp or vacuum tube that follows the transformer.

Some output transformers such as the API2503 with multiple primary and secondary windings are often used with a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio which provides several dB of gain. They also do not perform as well as a 1:1 ratio, although there will always be the "color" issue or debate. If you like it, use it. Sometimes the added gain of an output transformer with a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio can be useful, but I have always preferred using a 1:1 ratio for the best performance. Let the other circuitry provide the gain.

Thanks.

John Hardy
The John Hardy Co.
www.johnhardyco.com

[Beechstudio]

I'm really stoked about your new 500 line John! Can't wait to get my hands on one! (or two or three....) :)

[cww2]

I've got 2 slots remaining in my 10 space rack - it's killing me not having them filled... like a hot girlfriend with her 2 front teeth missing.

I won't ask for a projected launch because I know that can be a slippery slope for manufactures... but sure would like to have some Hardys.

Chase