Description
SPL Hermes
Hermes revolutionizes mastering. Now it is possible to have an audio signal processed by up to eight 2-channel processors in any order that can be stored. At the push of a button, you can compare up to four complex processing chains.
Connect, route, store, compare
Hermes accelerates mastering workflows in an unprecedented achievable way. The time-consuming replugging of the patchbay alone had made true comparison almost impossible.
Now you can change, store and compare processing chains in seconds. All with real buttons, relays, and without additional software.
Simply push the processor buttons A to H in the order in which the audio signal should pass through the processors and store it.
All processors can be named for a better overview. The name always appears briefly in the display when an insert button is pressed.
Free routing of two parallel mix stages
Hermes has two parallel mix stages that can be freely assigned to each of the eight processors and stored with a processing chain.
This means that even two compressors with different parallel mix settings can be compared quickly and easily.
The routing is completely passive with gas-encapsulated and gold-plated high-end relays.
All active stages, such as the input/output stages and the parallel mix stages work in 120V technology.
Sends & Returns
The stereo channels are strictly separated on two boards to achieve the highest possible channel separation.
The inserts are connected with XLRs for the first four stereo processors and with DB25 for the second four stereo processors.
The 120V technology
The 120V technology is our reference technology. The 120V technology is unique in the world. It operates at a DC voltage of 120 volts. This is four times that of IC-based semiconductor op-amps.
The highest possible audio quality requires the highest possible audio operating voltage.
The 120V technology works with +/-60 V. To be able to handle such a high voltage, we have developed special proprietary operational amplifiers that can operate with a DC voltage of +/-60 V: the SPL 120V SUPRA operational amplifiers.
This high voltage would destroy conventional components and operational amplifiers.
The 120V technology achieves impressive technical specifications and sonic benefits. Technically, in terms of dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio, and headroom. Sonically, in terms of richness of detail and an absolutely relaxed listening experience.
By the way, the “120V” in the name of the technology has nothing to do with the local mains voltage from the mains power socket. This is about the operating voltage inside the device with which the audio signals are processed.
The mains voltage from the mains power socket is transformed to the required secondary voltage in the device’s internal linear power supply with a toroidal transformer. Rectifiers convert this AC voltage into the DC voltage needed for the audio device.
The idea for SPL 120V technology and the SUPRA operational amplifier based on this technology were developed in the 1990s by SPL founder and chief developer Wolfgang Neumann.
With the goal of building the best mastering console ever, this basic technological philosophy then took shape for the first time – thus the SPL MMC1 Mastering Console for Galaxy Studios saw the light of day in 2000.
The outstanding sonic and technical features quickly got around in the scene – so further orders were not long in coming.
Besides the MMC 1, another legendary product with 120V technology was created with the PQ, the “King of Parametric Equalizers”.
Since then, 120V technology has been the foundation for all SPL premium products. Meanwhile, not only for mastering applications but also for studio or hifi use.
What exactly is that?
And what does it do?
Good questions need good answers.
And that’s what the 120V technology video gives you.
Comparison
Most audio devices work with an internal operating voltage of +/-15 volts and can thus process a maximum input level of +21.5 dBu. If a DAC, for example, has an output level of +22 dBu at 0 dBFS, level peaks of the music material would already cause overload in the input stage of the device.
All components in the audio device often operate at their limits. The result is an unsteady sound that causes stress and faster ear fatigue.
SPL devices with 120V technology can handle input levels of +32.5 dBu thanks to the higher internal operating voltage of +/- 60 volts – thus offering 12 dB more headroom. All components consequently operate continuously in the optimum operating range. The result is a very pleasant, natural, and relaxed sound experience. So you can enjoy your music in every detail.
These diagrams clearly show the superiority of the 120V technology in comparison to other circuits with lower, common operating voltages.
Specifications
Analog inputs & output; XLR & DB25 (balanced)
Internal Linear Power Supply with Shielded Toroidal Transformer
Mains Power Supply
Dimensions & Weight
Reference: 0 dBu = 0,775V. All specifications are subject to change without notice.
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