AWA 1666143 modules

[Milo]

I have come across some AWA dual channel preamp/eq modules (similar but not the same as the JLM racked project). These are the Neve-type mic/line pres, with Centronics connectors on the rear running off 30 volts. Does anyone have any background on them - performance, value, etc?
Original condition, need to be recapped, serviced, etc

Thanks

[Milo]

Some photos:

[Chris H]

Nice find. I have a few that are like the " JLM racked project" but with the addition of limiters. I was told the desk they came in was always a "high maintenance" job for TV work but a few racked up for recording would be choice.

[Chinagraf]

They do look nice. Where's Chris V? Isn't he the AWA man...

[Milo]

Chris;
I also have an output module: essential, as it contains the line amp and output trannies (plus a couple of VUs). I noticed your input on a couple of different forums regarding AWA gear - you wouldn't have any AWA schematics, by any chance?? I found a generous posting of a similar schemo (the JLM project) by Linear Studios, but input only - no output. By the way, I read the model number incorrectly: its a TG series (66143 input & 146 group), not T6.

Thanks
Milo

[Chris H]

When i got the desk, all the balancing cards were missing, and all the looms were cut. I managed to contact several engineers who worked on the desk and none had spares or schematics. They said it was all binned when the desk was decommissioned. I willl ahve a look at the model no etc but i know the modules i have are 24 volts. There was also a 17 volt rail on the original desk.

[TimS]

John,
Linear Studios is Chris Vallejo :-)

http://www.linear-recording.com.au/home.htm

I'm sure he'll have a reply soon enough..
Tim..

[Milo]

Thanks, guys, I'll let you know the outcome

[rob]

i reckon these at the same version as a pair i've repaired some time ago
like all AWA stuff they have fantastic transformers and if you have the output driver cards then these input modules coupled with the output cards would be a decent unit.
Chances are high that they need recapping and are a bit fiddly to access the pcb to recap, but do-able. These modules on their own are designed to drive a fader and then a mix buss and so on their own have quite poor output drive capability and headroom, coupling with the output driver cards fixes that.
As you can see the EQ is a bit limited and from memory the mid freq control is boost only ( a presence EQ as they called it )
The modules in Linear's console are similar but a bit more of the "up market" version.

The mating connectors are still available but very expensive...$60 each rings a bell

Rob

[Milo]

Thanks for the background, Rob. And you're right, those transformers look fantastic. A workmate tells me he heard these modules when they were still a console, and, in his opinion, one of the best-sounding desks he's heard: as much character and warmth as a Neve, but quieter. Of course, it also comes with the rumour that Rupert was involved in the design consultations. Of course.

I've traced out the circuit connections for the module, and, yes, have found what I think are the external fader connections. Thanks for the gain tip: I also have one - and one only - precious group module, with VUs, amp board and output trannies: a lifesaver.

[Chris H]

Thanks for the background, Rob. And you're right, those transformers look fantastic. A workmate tells me he heard these modules when they were still a console, and, in his opinion, one of the best-sounding desks he's heard: as much character and warmth as a Neve, but quieter. Of course, it also comes with the rumour that Rupert was involved in the design consultations. Of course.

I've traced out the circuit connections for the module, and, yes, have found what I think are the external fader connections. Thanks for the gain tip: I also have one - and one only - precious group module, with VUs, amp board and output trannies: a lifesaver.

The AWA desk of this type i know of was built after Neve was asked to quote on a wrap around desk for one of the local TV broadcasters. They decided it was too expensive and AWA said they could do it for less. I'm not sure how closely the circuit etc follows that of a neve etc

[rob]

don't get to fussed about any association with Neve or otherwise. The circuitry is quite different to Neve stuff of the era. Besides, the emphasis on Neve being the holy grail is really more to to with myth, assumption and peer pressure than reality....and i'm sure Rupert would be the first to agree!

Rob

[Chris H]

don't get to fussed about any association with Neve or otherwise. The circuitry is quite different to Neve stuff of the era. Besides, the emphasis on Neve being the holy grail is really more to to with myth, assumption and peer pressure than reality....and i'm sure Rupert would be the first to agree!

Rob

+1

[Milo]

Not fussed at all, more amused about how the Grail always comes up as a comparison or an esoteric bloodline. I know AWA is good gear. I actually used to work for them, rebuilding filaments in those giant ceramic transmission valves, locked in my little cage with an arc welder and a vacuum machine. Harold, a former butcher from Oberon, was in charge of testing (1000 volts, couple of hundred amps), had no electrical training, but knew where the big needle on the meter should stop. Having a great time in '85 until Skase stuck his oar in and ran the place into oblivion. The factory is all apartments now.

[Linear]

Hi,

I have lots of schematics, including the output card but I'm not sure if it would match what you have. I can scan it and email it to you if you'd like.

I've seen those modules around before but don't really know where the fit in to the big picture (ie before or after the ones I have). What I do know is that all of it was in small production runs, so it was probably specific to the installation. I know that there were a few types like that installed in TV stations around Sydney.

I also spoke to a guy from the opera house, he said there was an AWA console installed there but it was terrible. It had no EQ and apparently didn't work very well. The console I have was pulled out of 2MBS and as far as I can tell now, was always installed there.

Fortunately I have lots and lots of spares for the console, some of the parts are quite esoteric and custom made for the modules. But let me know if there's anything specific you need. Recapping the modules is a bit of a PITA, not to mention finding the same form of the caps (most are axial). Recapping is essential, especially for the EQ cards.

Rob is right, the connectors are hideously expensive. I just picked up another 7 modules so will need to buy another 30 or so connectors. Cheapest place to source them is the US, let me know if you want some and we can order/ship together.

I still find it amazing that the console I have was Australian made - and made really really well. It's such a shame that our R&D as well as manufacturing in this area has dissolved (now we're pretty much just an open cut mine).

Oh well.

Chris

[rob]

Chris

there are few of us still doing R+D and building stuff here :)

Rob