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PreSonus Central Station
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PreSonus Central Station
solo84 solo84
Published on 10/27/08 at 07:44
From the outset, unpacking, we notice the high quality construction and materials, both for the rackmount unit for the remote. This is relatively heavy, very stable ... The pro stuff!

I will not dwell on the technical specs (excellent), all being well addressed on the site of Presonus. One important thing: the totally passive signal path, which is preferable for its neutrality! Another thing: a double-digital input (SPDIF + Optical) with a DAC that goes up to 192kHz.

Connections are complete, you turn it all (no switch ON / OFF, it becomes a habit a little heavy at that price, anyway!) And presto! Means the mechanical relays get together on their default position, the front displays an armada of loupiotte pretty blue and we're ready!

Usage / Usability:
The ergonomics are well thought! The knobs give a very serious contact, the detent is very thin, the resistance is good ... The switch selection are frank ... The remote control is in-dis-pen-sand! Otherwise, arm outstretched toward the rack at any operation, while the remote allows you to stay at the center, in the listening position!

A small criticism: if the blue LEDs are the most beautiful effect, I wish some of them differ in color. The MUTE, such as red or orange, to know instantly that I can start the sauce 4am 'no surprises ... Ditto for Mono, Sun .. etc.

Listening to:
You do not hear it, actually! No difference with the analog output of my Motu Ultralite! Superb!
SPDIF in is even better: I suspect the converter DAC to be a bit better even than those of MOTU, which is already more than correct!

The two headphone amplifiers: from the Presonus HP-4, which is already a very popular headphone amp, it is clearly better! The headroom is huge, and higher bandwidth! My DT-770 PRO is supposed to tackle 5Hz (probably 20-25Hz real) and I hear there really sub bass, this with great clarity! Highs are more present. Amazing! This is now my headphones listening reference!
Conclusion:
A superbly built machine, a no-compromise audio quality and ergonomics "pro"! It's the safe bet, the kind of thing you never regret the purchase! Keep in mind that all that means in your studio will come along!
I first use of a Monitor Station, taking advantage of the coupon Universe Son (269euros) I kept a few days: good product, but ultimately it's a bit annoying to have all these cables and other headphones extensions that lead to the big box put there on the master keyboard. Above all, no digital input + signal passing through active elements, so its neutrality in doubt! So back ... Next time we will avoid head shots!

When I dropped 650 euros for the Central Station + remote control, for sure I changed budget, but I know now that it is the right choice! No regrets, on the contrary!