RSE TS508 500 Series Stereo Tube Saturator

The RSE TS508 is a two-slot 500 Series stereo tube saturator designed for mix-bus, mastering, and sound-design applications.

Each channel uses transformer-coupled input and output stages together with separate triode and pentode tube sections. Independent bias controls allow the operating point of each section to be adjusted, while the Triode/Pentode Mix control continuously blends their contribution to the processed signal.

Input and output level controls provide control over drive and level matching, while the analog Dry/Wet control allows parallel saturation directly within the unit.

The TS508 also includes a three-band Emphasis EQ system with low-shelf, mid-bell, and high-shelf controls. Each band operates through linked pre-tube and post-tube EQ stages. Turning a band clockwise increases the level of that frequency range before the tube stages and compensates after them, increasing frequency-selective saturation without substantially changing the overall tonal balance. Turning it counter-clockwise produces the opposite effect.

The pre- and post-tube EQ stages can also be switched independently, allowing them to operate as conventional EQ stages when required.

Front-panel channel-alignment trimmers are provided to maintain accurate stereo level matching over time.

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Key Features

• Stereo tube saturation processor in a two-slot 500 Series format
• Transformer-coupled input and output on each channel
• Separate triode and pentode processing stages
• Independent Triode and Pentode bias controls
• Continuous Triode/Pentode blend control
• Analog Dry/Wet control for parallel saturation
• Three-band frequency-dependent Emphasis EQ
• Independently switchable pre-tube and post-tube EQ stages
• Input and output level controls
• Analog VU meter with selectable input/output monitoring
• Independent input clip indicators for left and right channels
• Front-panel stereo alignment controls
• High-voltage tube supply generated internally from the 500 Series rack power rails
• Relay-switched true bypass