The HLabs CS169 is a streamlined 1U channel strip combining a high‑gain PRE169 mic preamp with a musical 3‑band EQ, marrying two Studer 169‑inspired circuits in a compact, rugged rackmount format.
The HLabs CS169’s sonic character is clean, open, and true to the source, far from the typical “warm and dark” preamps, making it ideal for genres like classical and jazz, or any situation where sonic transparency is paramount.
Designed for flexibility in the studio, the PRE and EQ sections of the HLabs CS169 feature independent inputs and outputs, and are linked via a removable patch cable. This allows effortless insertion of other gear between them, for example, compressors or tape emulations, without compromising signal integrity.
The HLabs CS169 section brings in over 67 dB of gain (perfect for ribbon mics and other low‑level sources), while delivering body and richness via a Carnhill VT24499 transformer and a tunable 12 dB/octave high‑pass filter.
The EQ section of the HLabs CS169 continues the tradition of openness, featuring semi‑parametric mid (“Presence”) band and fixed ±15 dB shelves for high and low frequencies. The entire signal path is built with 100% discrete through‑hole components, ensuring sonic clarity, reliability, and long‑term serviceability.
Features
- PRE169 section with >67 dB gain—ideal for ribbon mics and low-level sources
- Musical high-pass filter + tunable 3-band EQ (with “Presence” mid and ±15 dB shelves)
- Independent PRE & EQ inputs/outputs with removable patch cable for flexible routing
- Front-panel DI input with large Carnhill VT24499 transformer for rich tone
- 100 % discrete through-hole (THT) component construction for durability and clarity