Avalon Design VT737SP (Gold Edition) – Tube Channel Strip

OVERVIEW

The Avalon VT-737SP Gold is a premium channel strip that combines a Class-A vacuum tube preamp, smooth optical compression, and a fully discrete 4-band parametric EQ for ultimate tonal control. Designed for professional studios, it features high-voltage circuitry for +30 dB of headroom, transformer-balanced mic inputs, and a Hi-Z instrument input for pristine signal clarity. The opto-compressor offers adjustable threshold, ratio, attack, and release, allowing seamless dynamics control from gentle leveling to hard-knee limiting.

With 100% discrete Class-A transistors, the EQ section delivers natural, musical shaping, enhanced by sweepable frequency bands and a side-chain option for de-essing. Built to the highest standards, the VT-737SP includes Sovtek 6922 vacuum tubes, sealed silver relays, and an ultra-low-noise output stage. Whether for vocals, guitars, or mix processing, this 40th Anniversary Limited Edition Avalon delivers legendary warmth, clarity, and dynamic precision.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Class-A Tube Preamp:

Delivers rich, warm sound with transformer-balanced mic input and Hi-Z instrument DI.

Smooth Opto-Compression:

Twin-tube optical compressor with fully adjustable threshold, attack, release, and ratio for natural dynamics control.

4-Band Parametric EQ:

Discrete Class-A circuitry with sweepable frequencies, switchable Q-width, and pre/post compression selection.

Ultra-Low Noise & High Headroom:

High-voltage circuitry provides +30 dB of headroom with minimal self-noise (-92 dB).

Premium Build & Components:

Features Sovtek 6922 vacuum tubes, toroidal transformer, and sealed silver relays for superior audio performance.

FEATURES & TECHNICAL SPECS

Preamplifier Stage:

• Class-A tube preamp with four Sovtek 6922 dual-triode vacuum tubes
• Transformer-balanced mic input with +48V phantom power
• Hi-Z instrument DI input (front panel 1/4″ jack)
• Combo XLR-1/4″ balanced line input
• Phase reverse switch and high-pass filter (30–140 Hz)

Optical Compressor:

• Twin-tube Class-A optical compression
• Adjustable threshold (-30 to +20 dB), ratio (1:1 to 1:20), attack & release
• Compression bypass switch with sealed silver relay
• Stereo link function for dual-unit pairing
• VU meter displays gain reduction & output levels

4-Band Parametric EQ:

• 100% discrete Class-A transistor EQ
• Bass, low-mid, high-mid, and treble bands with sweepable frequencies
• Selectable narrow Q and X10 frequency multipliers
• Pre/post compressor routing option

Outputs & Connectivity:

• Balanced XLR I/O & 1/4″ line input
• 1/4″ stereo link output for compressor linking
• USB port for firmware updates

Build & Design:

• High-voltage circuitry for maximum headroom (+30 dB)
• Soft-start tube life extender for longer reliability
• Premium conductive plastic potentiometers for precision control
• Large backlit VU meter for real-time monitoring
• Rackmountable 19″ / 2U design
• Dimensions: 482 x 89 x 305 mm | Weight: 10 kg