Pricing and availability

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover a new level of studio precision with the LaChapell Audio 500CS, a versatile 500 Series channel strip that seamlessly integrates a solid-state preamp with an Op Amp foundation and a VCA compressor into a single, dynamic unit. With its innovative design, the 500CS allows each section to function independently or as a cohesive unit, offering you unparalleled flexibility in sound shaping. Whether you’re tracking vocals or dialing in the perfect guitar tone, this channel strip has you covered.

On the left, the 500CS boasts a pristine preamp complete with a front-panel hi-Z input, ideal for capturing all the nuances of your instruments. The right side features a mastering-grade 3-band EQ, accompanied by fixed low- and high-pass filters to refine your sound with precision. The VCA compressor, equipped with ratio and threshold controls, ensures your tracks remain punchy and clear, while the makeup-gain stage lets you fine-tune your output levels. A vintage-style VU meter provides real-time visual feedback, selectable between preamp level, gain reduction, and output, for an engaging hands-on experience.

Crafted with boutique-quality components but without the boutique price tag, the LaChapell Audio 500CS is a trusted tool for both seasoned professionals and budding audio engineers aiming to elevate their recordings.

Key Features:

  • Solid-state preamp with Op Amp foundation
  • 3-band mastering-grade EQ
  • VCA compressor with ratio and threshold controls
  • Front-panel hi-Z input
  • Selectable VU meter for preamp level, gain reduction, and output
  • Low- and high-pass filters
  • Independently functioning modules for versatile use
  • 48V phantom power and polarity reverse options

Product specs

Internal gain 60 db
Thd+n 0.0009%
Frequency response 5 hz – 36 khz (+/- .28 dbu)
Max output 28.12 dbu
Typical ein -128
Input impedance 3 kω mic / 20 kω hi-z
Maximum input level 27.65 dbu
Noise floor < 94.5 db – 20 hz to 20 khz
Cut/boost range +/- 12db
bands 3 band
High pass filter 6 db per octave at 142 hz
Low pass filter 6 db per octave at 7 khz
Type VCA
Knee hard/soft selectable
Slow setting 5 ms attack, 65 ms release
Fast setting 3 ms attack, 13 ms release

FAQs

What is the LaChapell Audio 500CS used for in a studio setting?

The LaChapell Audio 500CS is a complete 500 series channel strip that combines a preamp, EQ, and compressor, making it ideal for tracking and mixing with mastering-quality sound.

Does the LaChapell Audio 500CS have a high pass filter?

Yes, the LaChapell Audio 500CS features a high pass filter with a 6 dB per octave slope at 142 Hz, useful for reducing low-frequency rumble.

What type of compressor is included in the LaChapell Audio 500CS?

The LaChapell Audio 500CS includes a VCA compressor with selectable hard/soft knee settings, offering versatile dynamic control.

Can the LaChapell Audio 500CS handle high input levels?

Yes, the LaChapell Audio 500CS can handle a maximum input level of 27.65 dBu, making it suitable for a wide range of signal sources.

What is the frequency response of the LaChapell Audio 500CS?

The LaChapell Audio 500CS offers a frequency response from 5 Hz to 36 kHz (+/- .28 dBu), ensuring clear and accurate sound reproduction across the audio spectrum.

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

LaChappel Audio 500DT & 500CS - Summer NAMM 2018

Video thumbnail for LaChappel Audio 500DT & 500CS - Summer NAMM 2018 by Sound On Sound magazine

LaChappel Audio 500DT & 500CS - Summer NAMM 2018

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for MicPreamp Shootout by Drew Brown

MicPreamp Shootout

Drew Brown

Drew Brown

Reviews

Critic Reviews

LaChapell Audio: 500CS Channel Strip | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The LaChapell Audio 500CS Channel Strip shines with its stellar preamp, smooth EQ, and effective compression, making it a versatile tool for any studio. Its design is user-friendly, with a well-organized layout and quality feel. However, the internal switch for compressor speed is an inconvenient design flaw, and the high-pass filter's steep slope at 142 Hz may leave users wanting more options. Despite these minor drawbacks, its exceptional sound quality and price point of $499 make the 500CS a compelling choice for musicians seeking a reliable channel strip.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More LaChapell Audio Effects Processors

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar