The Rane MS 1S Mic Stage preamplifier provides the answer when you need just one microphone input in an otherwise line-level world. Give us a call to go from either a dynamic, condenser or electret microphone to a line-level input with a minimum of noise, distortion, cost and hassle.
The MS 1S provides 48 V switchable Phantom Power with an indicator LED, continuous rotary Gain trim between 15 dB and 60 dB, Signal/Overload LED, and XLR balanced Input & Output connectors. A Polarity switch and high-current cross-coupled output line driver round out the features.
The MS 1S utilizes one of the finest ultra low noise amplifier designs available. Featuring a true differential input with high common-mode rejection, use of the MS 1S guarantees performance usually found only in mixing consoles costing thousands of times as much. Of course, for all of that extra money you receive a proportional increase in KPSI (knobs per square inch).
The MS 1S replaces the MS 1B Mic Stage with a new internal universal power supply. The width increases by one inch -- all other features are the same.
The MS 1S has CSA certification in the US and Canada.
Uses and applications for the MS 1S should be obvious. But then again, it’s obvious to us our taxes are too high and nothing is being done about that. With this in mind, perhaps a few words on using the MS 1S might not be wasted.
BALANCED USE
The MS 1S provides a true cross-coupled balanced output. This is equivalent to an electronic simulation of a transformer output. Rane follows the AES standard of pin 2 = hot. When running a long cable back to the mixer, run a line-level balanced line rather than a mic-level line. The compact MS 1S can mount closer to the microphone, provide a local volume control (or not, just pull the knob off), while the stronger signal minimizes RF and hum irritations.
UNBALANCED USE
Balanced use is recommended to minimize noise. Unbalanced lines are usually quiet under 10 feet (3 meters), but longer runs will introduce the hum and interference you are trying to avoid. When you must drive an unbalanced device with the MS 1S's balanced output, keep the cable short, and connect pin 2 to the “+” or “hot” lead, and tie pin 3 and ground together at the shield.
MIXING
The MS 1S is designed to fill the need for adding a microphone channel to line-level mixers, such as the Rane SM 26S or SM 82S. Many installations using either of these products invariably wind up with one unused input that would do the job perfectly if only it could operate at mic-level. In rides the MS 1S to the rescue.
DIGITAL RECORDING AND SAMPLING
Another handy use for the MS 1S is in recording applications. Many popular products do not have a high enough quality mic preamp to suit the resolution of the digital processing electronics. Such irony. Using the ultra low noise MS 1S to bring the mic inputs up to extremely high quality line-level is an easy and affordable solution for this dilemma. No garbage in; no garbage out. Clippity-clop; clippity-clop.
MICROPHONE TYPES
The available gain and large input range of the MS 1S allows the use of virtually any type of microphone. True 48V phantom power guarantees the MS 1S works with every microphone. The better the mic, the better the MS 1S sounds.
Ah, the sound of the thundering hoofs is deafening.
BLOCK DIAGRAM
| Parameter | Specification | Units | Conditions/Comments |
| Input Impedance | 2k | Ω | Balanced |
| Gain Range | 15 to 60 | dB | |
| Phantom Power | +48 | volts | 10 mA max |
| ..........Impedance | 6.81k | Ω | Each leg |
| Max. Input Level | +9 / -35 | dBu | Gain 15 / 60, balanced output |
| Equivalent Input Noise | -127 | dBu | 20kHz BW, Rs=150Ω, Gain=60dB |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 94 | dB | 20kHz BW, Rs=150Ω, Gain=15dB, re 4dBu |
| Dynamic Range | 114 / 91 | dB | Gain 15 / 60 |
| CMRR | 80 | dB | Rs=150Ω, 120 Hz, Gain = 60 dB |
| Frequency Response | 3 to 200k | Hz | +0, -3db |
| THD+Noise (gain 60 dB) | .004 (Output=+20 dBu) | % | 55 to 20k Hz, 20 kHz BW, Rl=10 kΩ |
| THD+Noise (gain 15 dB) | .0006 (Output=+20 dBu) | % | 50 to 20k Hz, 20 kHz BW, Rl=10 kΩ |
| Line Driver | Active Cross-coupled | ||
| Max. Output Level | +18/+24 | dBu | Balanced, 2 kΩ load |
| Output Impedance | 94 | Ω | Each Leg |
| Signal Indicator | -11 | dBu | Balanced output, Green LED |
| Overload Indicator | +20 | dBu | Balanced output, Amber LED |
| Output Cable Length | 300 | meters | Belden 8451 or equivalent |
| Unit: Agency Listing | c/CSA/us | 247105 | |
| ..........Max Power | 3 | W | C5 cord included |
| ..........Line Voltage | 100-240 | VAC | 50 / 60 Hz |
| Unit Size | 1.64" H x 6.8" W x 4.26" D | (4.2 cm x 17.3 cm x 10.8 cm) | |
| ..........Weight | 1 lb, 1 oz | (0.5 kg) | |
| Shipping Size | 3.6" H x 11.75" W x 7.2" D | (9.5 cm x 30 cm x 18 cm) | |
| ..........Weight | 4 lb | (1.8 kg) | |
If the above doesn't answer your question, or it's urgent...
Phone 425-355-6000, 8 AM to 5 PM PST, Monday through Friday.
If it's less urgent, you can email the factory.
For local service within the USA, find a service center.
MS 1S Mic Stage Data Sheet / Manual
RaneNote: "Sound System Interconnection"
MS 1S Mic Stage photo right front RGB JPG
MS 1S front DWG
