• ALL-TUBE preamplifier audio path using 1 x 12AX7 for gain and 1 x 6922 White Follower
• Balanced Transformer Coupled XLR Microphone Input Impedance: 1200 Ohms
• Balanced XLR Line Input Impedance: 10 kOhms
• Unbalanced 1/4" Direct Input Impedance: 10 Meg Ohm
• Hi-current drive Direct XLR output Impedance: 50 Ohms
• Silent conductive plastic INPUT attenuator
• Microphone preamp high pass filter starting at 120Hz with a 6dB/8va slope
• Compressor Maximum GAIN REDUCTION: 16 dB
• Compressor ATTACK time: 60ms slowest CCW, 30ms at 12:00, 5ms fastest CW for 6dB compression
• Compressor RELEASE time: 1.5s slowest CCW, 1s at 12:00, 100ms fastest CW from 6dB compression

• Maximum Input Mic input (Low Gain Setting): -5 dBu or 435mV RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Input Mic input (High Gain Setting): -25 dBu or 44 mV RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Input Line input (Low Gain Setting): +13 dBu or 3.5V RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Input Line input (High Gain Setting): -8 dBu or 300mV RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Input Direct input (Low Gain Setting): +24 dBu or 12V RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Input Direct input (High Gain Setting): +17 dBu or 5.5V RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Input Insert return: +20 dBu or 7.8V RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Preamp Output (Insert Send): +35 dBu or 43V RMS @ 0.5% THD
• Maximum Preamp Output (Insert Send): +22 dBu into 600 Ohms
• Maximum Main Output: +20 dBu

• Insert Send output impedance: 50 Ohms
• Insert Return input impedance: 13 kOhms
• Main Output Impedance: 50 Ohms
• Direct Output Headroom (referenced to +4 dBv): 31 dB
• Main Output Headroom (referenced to +4 dBv): 16 dB
• Dynamic Range: >90 dB
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 20 kHz ±0.5 dB

• Large LED illuminated VU METER
• Meters switch to read Direct Output (1) from preamp, Output (2) from Main Out, or Compressor Gain Reduction
• THD & Noise (1kHz @ +4 dBm): 0.02% at Low Gain setting
• Noise Floor (Gain set to minimum): -70 dB wideband typical
• Gain via Microphone Input: 40 or 60 dB
• Gain via Line Input: 20 or 40dB
• Maximum Gain of EQ & Limiter section: 10 dB
• AUTOMUTE warmup delay: 30 Seconds

• Power consumption: 35 watts
• Operating mains voltage: 90 to 254 VAC (internal universal supply)
• Mains Voltage Frequency: 50-60Hz
• Dimensions: 19" x 3 1/2" x 7" (occupies 2u)
• Unit Weight: 8.3 lbs.
• Shipping weight: 11.5 lbs.

The CORE was designed as a streamlined, "greatest hits" channel strip that combines the best of Manley's renowned circuits—including elements from the legendary VOXBOX and SLAM!—into a single, user-friendly unit. It offers a comprehensive all-tube signal path for an accessible price, making it an ideal entry point into the Manley universe without compromising on sonic quality or headroom.

The CORE is a versatile tool perfect for a wide range of applications, including recording vocals, bass, guitars, and other instruments. Its intuitive design and powerful signal chain make it especially well-suited for tracking, where its forgiving circuitry helps artists focus on their performance. It's also an excellent tool for shaping and adding a polished, analog sound to individual tracks during mixing.

Yes, the CORE features a 1/4" TRS insert point located between the preamplifier/compressor and the EQ/limiter sections. This allows you to use the preamplifier and compressor as a standalone unit, or patch in other external gear. The dual outputs (Direct Out after the preamp/compressor and Main Out after the full chain) also provide additional flexibility for routing signals.

Manley Power® is our proprietary, high-voltage switch-mode power supply. It provides a highly regulated 300-volt B+ rail, ensuring huge headroom and consistent performance regardless of variations in the AC mains voltage. This modern design is quieter and more efficient than traditional linear power supplies, resulting in lower noise and a lighter unit without sacrificing the classic tube sound.

The CORE's all-tube audio path utilizes one 12AX7WA tube for the gain stage and one 6922 tube as a White Follower output stage. These tubes were carefully selected and are hand-tested by Manley to ensure they meet our high standards for performance and reliability.

The CORE's compressor section uses our celebrated ELOP® (Electro-Optical) technology, similar to the circuit found in the VOXBOX. This design employs an optical cell for gain reduction, providing a smooth, musical, and transparent compression. With a fixed 3:1 ratio, the compressor is designed to effortlessly tame dynamics and add a subtle, consistent warmth without sounding over-processed.