TAMPA is a preamplifier from M-AUDIO that can simulate the sound of vacuum tubes and provide a transparent sound.
This document serves as a supplement to the full manual for the M-Audio Tampa, focusing on how to get the most from its unique design. It explains that the unit's goal is natural sound rather than strict tube emulation, offering transparency at modest gains and warm coloration at higher signal levels.
The guide details the interactive process of setting gain between the Tampa and an external mixer or recorder. It highlights features such as the +20dB input switch, the 20dB output pad, and the dual-optical servo compressor design which minimizes distortion.
| Total Gain Capability | up to 66dB |
|---|---|
| Compressor Distortion | very low distortion |
To get a warm sound, drive the internal signal level high by turning GAIN up and optionally engaging the +20dB switch on the input stage.
Engaging the 20dB PAD at TAMPA's output will likely bring the signal back down to a usable range.
No, since the 20dB PAD only affects analog outs, it does not enter the equation if you are running the preamp's digital outputs directly into a digital recording device.