Echo Mona Digital Multitrack
The Mona uses the latest generation of 24-bit, 96kHz converters. This allows Mona to provide 115dB of dynamic range on both inputs and outputs for the quietest, most accurate digital recordings available at almost any price. Mona has "universal" inputs. Using a unique combination jack, Mona provides inputs for microphones, +4dBu balanced line level signals, and high impedance guitar pickups. Since converter technology has outpaced the noise performance of digitally controlled gain circuits, Mona has analog trim controls and input meters easily accessible on the front panel. The gain ranges change automatically according to the type of inputs being used. Mona has four mic pre-amps that are outstanding. They are built using monolithic amplifiers that provide very low noise and distortion along with exceptional bandwidth and dynamic response. Laser trimmed resistors insure high common mode rejection while custom built common-mode transformers keep out high frequencies and RF signals. Phantom power is available for mics that need it. Mona’s preamplifiers provide very clean, transparent recordings from any microphone.
Because Mona’s microphone preamplifiers connect directly to the input circuitry of the A/D converters, there are no extra components or cables to add noise and distortion. The preamp specifications touted by mixer manufacturers apply to the output of the preamps before they pass through the rest of the mixer. Mona has multiple connection options for its six outputs. A low noise, low distortion headphone amplifier allows crystal clear monitoring of channels 1 and 2 with a headphone jack and volume control on the front panel. This is handy for those late night mixing sessions or monitoring while recording. Six XLR connectors on the back panel provide +4dBu balanced differential outputs for connecting directly to studio monitors or other high-end analog gear. For those just starting out with limited budgets, all outputs are also available at –10dBV levels from standard RCA connectors for connecting to amplifiers and other "consumer" equipment.
While Mona provides many of the functions needed by project studios, it’s not limited to being used alone. Digital inputs and outputs are provided via ADAT light pipe or S/PDIF (coax or optical). All analog tracks are available when using either of the digital interfaces allowing Mona to record and playback as many as 26 tracks simultaneously (4 analog inputs, 6 analog outputs, 8 ADAT inputs, and 8 ADAT outputs). Mona can synchronize with other digital equipment with word clock or one of the digital interfaces. In addition, an "Esync" connector is provided on Mona’s PCI card for syncing with Echo’s other 24-bit products.
