Manley MicMAID

Manley MicMAID

4x4 Mic and Preamp Matrix-Switcher
The MicMAID Matrix-Switcher from Manley Labs was designed for auditioning combinations of four microphones with four microphone preamps through a fast-acting matrix system. The unit features four inputs for both microphones and preamps, while dedicated returns and direct outputs are offered for each micpre. The front panel has four sections including instrument input, phase control, routing matrix, and monitor control.

The instrument input offers a dedicated DI with thru-output and a ground lift, as well as a 1/4" TRS input for inserting a fader for controlling the Mon/Rec level output for real-time fader rides while tracking vocals or instruments.

The phase section offers phase reversal, variable phase control and a range button, which switches between low and full-bandwidth frequencies. The variable phase knob allows you to fine-tune the phase relationship between two of your mic signals, or between your direct signal and your mic signals.

The routing matrix offers four horizontal buttons for selecting microphones, while the four vertical buttons engage the four preamps. The microphone selection is routed to the selected preamp, while the preamp selection routes signal through the Mon/Rec output. The lock button lights up red when selected and prevents any other mic or preamp from using the current paired combination. The instrument button switches from microphone A input to the DI input.

The monitor section features a gain trim for matching levels of different combinations, which may be saved to any of 9 user presets for instant recall. There is also a pickle remote, which connects via RJ45 cable and features a momentary switch for cycling through presets. Hand-made in the USA, the unit is housed in a 2U chassis with a CNC machined 1/4" steel faceplate that is also inlaid with laser engraved inserts. The MicMAID ships with an IEC power cable.