Handcrafted Labs (HCL) Velvet 2025

Shipping to Europe $150

Demo unit used for promotional photo/video and short client demos, basically new unit from manufacturer with a great discount.

Velvet is the ultimate pure tube pre-amp channel strip unit from Handcrafted Labs. It is a masterful blend of vintage warmth and modern precision, offering a Class A tube microphone preamplifier, a nuanced opto-compressor and a convenient EQ section. This all-in-one unit is designed to deliver rich, smooth and warm sound, making it an indispensable tool for any recording application for variety of engineers, musicians and producers alike.

Pre-Amp Section: The Heart of Velvet

At the core of Velvet lies a Class A tube microphone preamplifier, operating on dual triode tubes (6n3p and 6n5p) with two tubes per channel. This pre-amp is a testament to our commitment to quality, featuring top-class components such as Cinemag input transformers and high-quality film capacitors. The output stage incorporates custom in-house built transformers, designed to complement the tubes in the most harmonious way possible. Controls include a stepped Input Gain knob, High Z instrumental input, Phantom power, Phase flip switch, Attenuator Pad switch, and a Low Cut filter set at 80 Hz.

Compressor Section: Precision and Control

Following the pre-amp, Velvet's chain features an opto-leveling amplifier, a nod to the legendary Teletronics LA-2A, but with our own unique enhancements. The dual triode 6N5P tubes ensure a sonic character that is transparent yet smooth and colorful. The signal path is pure tube, hand-built with high-quality shielded oxygen-free wire and film capacitors. Controls include a side-chain filter switch at 80 Hz, Pre/Post EQ routing switch, Hard/Soft Knee switch, and a Bypass switch for the compressor section.

EQ Section: Sculpt Your Sound

The EQ section of Velvet offers four stepped switches to boost/cut Low frequencies, Low Mid frequencies, Mid frequencies, and High frequencies. These fixed values and relatively broad Q have been meticulously selected by our engineers to work perfectly with a large number of signals, with a particular focus on vocals. A Bypass switch for the EQ section is also included for added flexibility.

Output Section: The Final Touch

The Velvet's output section is controlled by a Master Level knob that adjusts the output level of the device. An Insert in/out switch allows for insert circuitry engagement if you wish to use other gear to enhance the signal prior to Velvet’s output stage. A needle indicator mode of operation switch can be set to output level metering or gain reduction, providing you with precise control over your sound.