Experience with Wheatstone SP-5a??

[abechap024]

Hello,
I have a friend whos looking at getting a Wheatstone SP-5a console and asked me if it is worth getting. I have no idea and can't find any really usable info online. Seems like some people love the models other people hate them. Basically wondering if cross talk is an issue on this specific model of Wheatstone (I hate cross talk and its not something I could easily mod out for my friend). I know back in the day wheatstones were pretty dang expensive. Any other thoughts would be great!

Thanks for any help!

 

[Mike Cleaver]

Pretty much a middle of the road broadcast console.
Never really used one, I'm experienced with RCA, Gates, McCurdy and Ward Beck as well as Neve and Studer.
Can't comment on the crosstalk issue.

 

[abechap024]

Yea, I'm wondering if they are good enough building blocks to mod, or if they are riddled with fundamental problems that its more trouble than its worth. I know they are built sturdy enough and the modular design is great, Also I imagine the faders are fine. I guess crosstalk and other fundamental problems are my really concern. Thanks for the input.

 

[Ptownkid]

I'm pretty sure that Skylar had a Wheatstone...maybe try him?

 

[Brian Roth]

A dozen+ years ago, I specified and installed a Wheatstone SP-8 console in the CR of a television news operation.  I was very impressed with the quality of construction.  Can't comment about using it for music production, however.

Bri

 

[gar381]

Our company decommissioned a pair of SP-5a about 5 years ago
that I got my hands on.
I had mixed feelings about these for music recording but great for
broadcast news.  Very quite but headroom could be a bit better.
Good source for console parts ;D ;D

Not a bad PSU.. all 388k regs except for +48v

http://www.groupdiy.com/index.php?topic=37438.msg521489#msg521489

I'm using one in my Sphere build

http://www.groupdiy.com/index.php?topic=45733.msg646032#msg646032

Well made but not Neve or API quality build.

Modular with lots of module options.

All 5534 and 5532. 

Cheap small mic trafos with a 5534 for mic pre

All bell 3 band sweep-able EQ (no shelf) + fixed 100hz hipass
Cheap custom made dual pots for boost/cut/sweep duties.

P&G 8000 series 10k log faders.  AL29 meters

8 bus.

I would say an OK buy at $700-$1500

Hope this helps.

BTW.. I got lots of parts laying around if you get this guy.

Best..

GARY

 

[Fenris]

Yea, I'm wondering if they are good enough building blocks to mod, or if they are riddled with fundamental problems that its more trouble than its worth. I know they are built sturdy enough and the modular design is great, Also I imagine the faders are fine. I guess crosstalk and other fundamental problems are my really concern. Thanks for the input.

Yes, they're a very good platform for mods! I've come up with a bunch of mods for our Wheatstone TV-600 console that drastically improve the functionality. The mods should also work for other models from the early 1990's. You'll need a schematic to find the equivalent circuit points. Here's the documentation:  http://fenrisaudio.com/wheatstone

I would be interested to know if other models have the same odd design choices (EQ is post-insert and bell only, mic preamps are too sensitive).

If you find the mods useful, you can thank us by donating to the KDVS fundraiser. http://fundraiser.kdvs.org/

Fenris Wulf
KDVS Studio Tech

 

[tommyharron]

Yes, they're a very good platform for mods! I've come up with a bunch of mods for our Wheatstone TV-600 console that drastically improve the functionality. The mods should also work for other models from the early 1990's. You'll need a schematic to find the equivalent circuit points. Here's the documentation: http://fenrisaudio.com/wheatstone

I would be interested to know if other models have the same odd design choices (EQ is post-insert and bell only, mic preamps are too sensitive).

If you find the mods useful, you can thank us by donating to the KDVS fundraiser. http://fundraiser.kdvs.org/

Fenris Wulf
KDVS Studio Tech

Hi, @Fenris - Do you still have a working link to those Wheatstone mods of yours? I'm looking at an SP8 and curious if there is any crossover.

Thank you!

 

[Fenris]

I'll keep the zip file of documentation available for anyone with the link.

 

[pucho812]

I'll keep the zip file of documentation available for anyone with the link.

See about getting those in the tech docs for posterity. Perhaps the mods can make it possible

 

[Brian Roth]

See about getting those in the tech docs for posterity. Perhaps the mods can make it possible

Yeah....41 Megs isn't "allowed". Mods can make it happen, however.

Bri

 

[scott2000]

Yeah....41 Megs isn't "allowed"

 

[Brian Roth]

Wooo...look at you! <Big Grin>!!!! A few months ago I tried to upload....hmmm...a 25 Meg PDF to tech docs. Guess the size limits have changed.

Best,

Bri

 

[Brian Roth]

Yesss.....it works now with a Big Attachment!

https://groupdiy.com/threads/barry-porter-website-and-articles.81558/post-1149345

Bri

 

[scott2000]

Yeah ...on one of the truck forums they still have the anemic uploads...So frustrating. I think 1 or 2 mb....always having to resize images etc...
Site looks and operates pretty much like this one...
Who knows...Maybe just a coincidence... I reached out to the "Ethan" there but no response...
Hey Angie, can you see about getting bigger uploads to the GMT400 forum?..
jk..