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An absolute classic mic pre from Gates, this is the "raw" version of the SA-134. This example is in good, if not a little unkempt, condition (I prefer to not get to crazy removing outside dirt, as it doesn't affect the sound and can remove the delicate silk screens of the case). This one includes the somewhat hard to find factory base, which safely encapsulates the high voltage circuitry underneath, and all vintage tubes.
It has been recapped by the local tube tech here in Rochester within the last year or so and should be ready for many years of service with basic maintenance. I also had him remove the 6x5 tube and replace with diodes, hence the empty tube socket. This is easily reversed, or you can put in a 6x5 tube to fill the socket and it won't harm a thing with the diodes in place.
I used to have an unmatched pair of these, but sold one last year, and now this one is not getting the same amount of use, so I believe it is time to move on. With a LDC, I typically only need about a quarter of the gain to get proper volume. A lot of times, I will run this into an Altec 9063a passive EQ. This drops the signal around 15db, lets me eq out that little bit of 60 hz hum from the power transformer, and presents the preamp with the correct impedance so there is very little background noise.
For those who have not had the pleasure of this type of vintage tube equipment, these are phenomenal sounding, but do have their quirks. Due to a high voltage transformer sitting on the board, there is a very low level 60 hz hum. This is easily high passed in your DAW or with an outboard EQ, but if you are looking at this with your heart set on recording kick drum, you might want to reconsider. For 99% of sources, it's not a problem.
Other minor issues for full disclosure: the on/off indicator lamp is not currently working.
In my experience, the signal from these need very little polishing to be done. I usually tweak the EQ to get certain frequencies out of the way of other instruments, add compression to taste, and am done.
Once again, this has been serviced by a reputable tech within the last year or so and is ready to go to work for a long time. These have a very unique, full sound you don't get with much in the modern world, and definitely not at this price point. Thank you for looking!
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