Description

The GC Audio Inherit Bank highly extends the use of the GC Audio Inherit system and lets you use up to 4 cartridges at the same time.

Demo Video

Watch the demo video here

Overview of the GC-Audio Inherit System

The GC-Audio Inherit system is an innovative audio device that allows for a variety of preamplifiers, compressors, equalizers, or FX in a single 19’’ rack. Its “Hot swap” design allows users to quickly test a wide range of assorted sounds. Unlike other modular formats, it allows the implementation of high-voltage or high-current multiple-voltage preamplification technologies.

Key Features

• Outstanding Audio Quality: The absence of space constraints and the best EMC environment result in less compromise in electronic designs.
• Complex Electronic Design: Access to TRUE tube preamplifiers or complex discrete designs impossible to get with 500 Series units.
• Premium Device: Specialized in sound recording, mixing, and mastering aimed at professional sound engineers looking for uncompromising results.
• Quick Technology Testing: Allows you to quickly test various technologies without a patch bay.

Power Supply and Construction

The INHERIT rack’s custom power supply has been designed with great care and contains 7 unique voltages generated by three toroidal wire transformers. All functions are analog but digitally controlled in a well-shielded construction designed to protect the signal path. This enables each cartridge to keep its unique and unadulterated sound.

Cartridges Available

Currently, these 12 cartridges are available (more cartridges will be released soon!):

1. Riser Color: 3 Stages channel: Hybrid mic/line preamp + harmonic stage + tube saturator
2. Riser Compressor: 2 Stages channel: Hybrid mic/line preamp + compressor
3. Riser EQ: 2 Stages channel: Hybrid mic/line preamp + equalizer
4. RE-73: Class A preamp, unbalancing & balancing by Original Carnhill Transformer
5. RE-98: Class A differential preamp, ultra-low noise discrete components, Balanced by Lundahl Transformer
6. RE-VR: Unbalanced by an Original TF10015 rebuilt transformer, preamplification and balanced by an Ultralow noise Operational Amplifier
7. RE-4K: Unbalanced by an Original Jensen 115 transformer, preamplification and balanced by an Ultra-low noise Operational Amplifier
8. Tube Heat: True Tube High voltage preamplifier, unbalanced and balanced by transformer, no discrete component in the signal path
9. RE-15: Class A differential preamp unbalanced and balancing by an ultra-low noise Operational Amplifier
10. The Graham Langley Signature Cartridge: Designed with Graham Langley to be the best possible discrete components preamp with his unique signature
11. The Gyraf Audio Signature Cartridge: Designed with Jakob Erland to be the best Tube preamp with his unique signature
12. RE-11: Monolithic differential preamp unbalanced and balancing by an ultra-low noise Operational Amplifier

Overview by Graham Langley

Graham Langley, the founder of Amek and designer/co-designer of legendary analog mixing desks, shares his thoughts on the GC Audio Inherit system:

“When I first discovered the GC Audio “Inherit” system I was impressed by the innovative concept of interchangeable microphone amplifier cartridges allowing customers the flexibility and freedom of choice to enhance their creativity. The thought that had gone into the design and the build quality of the product also appealed to me. I was therefore honoured when invited to contribute a “Langley” microphone amplifier cartridge design. I designed a custom preamp to completely match the capabilities of the Inherit System. The circuit is reminiscent of the topology that I used in Amek console microphone amplifier designs in the 1970s and 80s but with significant improvements, particularly in noise performance. This cartridge is intended to provide a clean, transparent sound over the full audio frequency spectrum. I hope you enjoy using this addition to your “Inherit” cartridge collection.”

Overview by Jakob Erland

Jakob Erland from Gyraf Audio shares his insights:

“The preamp-as-a-cartridge is simply a great idea: In this day and age where you can have clean and neutral preamps virtually for free with your converters, you don’t want a big stack of the same type preamp – you want variety, something that matches the individual microphones and sources you are working with. The inherit cartridge system gives you exactly this – the ease of trying out a variety of flavors – the possibility of finding that sonic imprint that’s just right for what you have at hand. The G9, which the GY 4.5 cartridge is based on, is an adaptation of the input circuit of the G36 tape recorder, that I have used and loved since I was a kid.. Update includes transformer balancing in and outputs, phantom power, switchable high-pass filter and switched gain settings.”

Using the GC Audio Inherit Bank

The GC Audio Inherit Bank allows the GC Audio INHERIT system user to work with up to 4 cartridges at the same time. The goal is to have a true analog hardware system able to have plugins routing capabilities.

Warning

Although the Inherit Bank can supply up to 4 cartridges, no more than two tube cartridges out of the 4 should be used when the Bank is connected to the INHERIT Rack.

Getting Started

1. Plug the D-Sub cable from the Inherit BANK to the Inherit rack.
2. Insert the cartridge(s) in the Inherit BANK (It’s not possible to use the single slot of the Inherit rack when you use the Inherit Bank).
3. Power on the INHERIT rack and the BANK.
4. The inherit system is a hot swap system, you can change cartridges when the unit is powered on.

Functional Modes

Multi Mode

In this mode, you work with 4 independent channels:

• Each cartridge has its own input and output 1 to 4 on the rear face of the Inherit Bank.
• With the pushbutton, you can route the signal of each cartridge to the Inherit system vu meter.
• This mode allows the user to make multitrack recording, mixing, or mastering.
• If you link in serial with XLR slot 1 to 3 and 2 to four: You have a two slots stereo treatment for mix bus or mastering. With compressors cartridges an internal link allows to have a true stereo RMS link.
• Many other associations are possible.

Unit Mode

In this mode, you work with a single channel:

• The goal is to compare in a few seconds the sound from each slot.
• The input and output signal are on channel 1 of the Inherit Bank.
• You can put up to 4 cartridges and with the pushbuttons (1 to 4) you can select the slot you want to listen. So, you can compare 4 cartridges and choose very quickly the good one.
• Another configuration, you can put a preamp in slot 1, a compressor in slot 2, an EQ in slot 3 and harmonic FX in slot 4.
• First use the preamp in slot 1 for your take then in your DAW switch your track in insert and you can use the compressor or EQ etc … for your mix.
• So, with only one channel you can route the treatment you want when it needed.
• In this mode you can consider each slot like a plugin, but with true analog hardware and without the need of AD/DA conversion!

Serial Mode

This mode allows you to make a custom producer channel:

• Like the unit mode, the input and output signal are on channel 1 of the Inherit Bank.
• With the pushbuttons 2 to 4, select how many cartridges you want in serial.
• To know: On channel one, you have an active DI Input (Z In 680K Ohms) This DI turn on automatically when a ¼” Jack is inserted.
• Each channel has an output level Bourns fader, that can be used it in all modes.
• When you turn on the PAD, it’s active only on slot 1.
• When you turn on the phantom power, it’s active on all channels.

Why Choose the GC Audio INHERIT?

500 Series are able to give you access to several good tools, but their limited power supply and size require electronic compromises which affect the quality of the sound. In addition, 500 Series shielding is not always of very good quality. The Inherit system provides premium multiple power supply and a highly shielded environment. It is intended for demanding sound engineers who want uncompromising sound recording. The Inherit system is a different and more practical modular format specialized in preamplification. Although it is primarily dedicated to recording studios, its rugged construction allows for heavy touring use for recording engineers who want to use different sound colors without carrying multiple racks.

Usage Tips

• Although the system allows you to change the cartridge under power, it is preferable to lower the output volume to avoid feedback or unexpected noise.
• Never put your fingers at the cartridge slot, high voltage is present!
• It is important to keep the cartridge connector clean, you can maintain it with an alcohol wipe (glasses wipe).

Position

This product is designed and screened to minimize internal electromagnetic emissions and provide immunity to external electromagnetic fields. To reduce the risk of performance degradation due to external interference, do not site this unit close to sources of strong magnetic fields such as power supplies, power amplifiers, loudspeakers, etc.

Rack Mounting

This product is designed to be rack mounted using the screws and washers supplied to help preserve the finish of the facia panel. The facia graphic layer is under-surface printed to provide a robust hard-wearing surface designed to last the life of the product in virtually any operating environment. Failure to use the supplied fixings may result in damage to the facia surface which can invalidate the warranty. It is recommended that additional rack-mount side supports are used in conjunction with the facia panel fixings, particularly when the unit is mounted in a flite case or vehicle where vibration and transit shocks can be expected.

Cleaning

The product should be cleaned with a soft brush around the controls. If the facia becomes dirty, use a damp cloth with a little household soap to remove the dirt. DO NOT use solvent cleaners under any circumstances or the facia may be permanently damaged, and warranty invalidated!

Audio Connections

Two 3 pin XLR connectors are provided on the back side. Inputs are female, outputs are male. All connectors follow the European wiring convention: Pin 1 = Screen, Pin 2 = Hot (+), Pin 3 = Cold (-). Jack input for instrument in front side.

Power Supply

The GC Audio Inherit can be supplied by 230V or 115V source with a switch on the rear face. Please refer to safety instructions.

Safety Instructions

Caution – Earthing

This apparatus MUST be earthed on Inherit Rack Supply. Under no circumstances should the mains earth be disconnected from the mains lead.

Caution – Changing the Fuse

To avoid the risk of fire: Replace only with the same value and type of fuse as marked on the unit, 500mA T (230V) or 1000mA T (115V). Before changing the fuse, always switch off the unit and remove the AC power cable.

Warning

For your own safety and to avoid warranty invalidation, please read this section carefully:

• Do not place the apparatus on an unstable surface.
• Do not insert objects through any apertures.
• Do not use this apparatus near water. Unplug the unit before cleaning.
• Clean only with a damp cloth. Do not block any of the ventilation openings.
• Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus including amplifiers or power supplies that produce heat.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wider blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. When the plug provided does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Avoid using mains outlets on the same circuits as air control systems or other equipment that regularly switches on and off.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way such as the power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, the apparatus does not operate normally, the apparatus has been dropped. Unplug the unit under these circumstances.
• Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions.
• Use only the mains lead provided with the equipment. Other leads may not have sufficient current rating.
• Do not operate this unit with the cover removed.

Mains Cable

The supplied IEC mains cable must be terminated correctly to the AC mains supply before use. Use only an approved AC plug or power distribution device. The three cores are color-coded as follows: The Green/Yellow core in the mains cable is a safety ground and must be connected at all times!

115V/230V Operation

Before adjusting the operating voltage, always switch off the unit and remove the AC power cable! To adjust the operating voltage, use a flat blade screwdriver to click the voltage selector across to the required position until the legend 115V or 230V appears in the window and fit the appropriate fuse supplied in the fixings pack.