Akai Monoblock to Preamp Conversions x2

Tablebeast TB-2XP1 Times Two:

I am finishing up my waiting list so that I can begin work on the bulk of the xfmr rig. Pictured are the two most recent Akai monoblock mods of mine. They were made from a stereo M6 unit. Notice how the faceplates have only two sockets on the right hand side and the smaller meters. Both of these are 2xPre units. If the name isn't obvious enough it is a two channel microphone preamplifier. Each has the added XLR input transformer package, but the rest of their options differ. The top unit has green paint on the faceplate, working meter with three way toggle switch, and a reworked wood case made from the original tape machine box. The bottom unit has a black face, rack case, and XLR dual output package. The meter on the second unit doesn't function as it is just there for looks. These old Akai meters rarely still work and even when they do they only work at speaker level. They won't even tick at line level. I can install working meters, like the first unit has, but they have an added cost. These days I have several layers of metering in my DAW, so I find this functionality superfluous anyway. Alternatively I can install a blockoff plate with or without an original drawing for those that don't like the idea of a non-functional meter, but don't want the added expense of a working unit. The dual output option means that it has the original impedance balanced output which is about 3k and fairly hot, but it also has a transformer balanced, 600 ohm output that steps down the output 4:1 so this output is not quite as hot. You can use both outputs simultaneously for slightly different tones or to split signals to two devices. The input option is usually installed and add a mic-level 300 ohm transformer along with a -20dB pad switch and a 180 degree phase shift switch. All units come with a hi-z input that feeds the preamp stage and line-level inputs that feed the line amp stage. These inputs are on 1/4" unbalanced switching jacks. The impedance balanced outputs are on a TRS 1/4" jack and can be used with TRS balanced or TS unbalanced cables. The tubes consist of original NEC 6267/EF86 preamps feeding Sylvania or GE 5963/12AU7 line amps. The power supply consists of a tube rectified brute force supply using a CLC supply with a choke and double filtered individual supplies for each channel. This gives a supply with good channel separation and some nice unregulated voltage that tends to sag beautifully a bit when pushed. Nothing like how a power amp sags of course, but this type of supply is very smooth.