About Soviet American Audio Systems
Soviet American Audio Systems designs and crafts precision-built analog studio equipment and microphones inspired by the finest American and Soviet engineering of the past. Our mission is to bring the sound and character of rare, sought-after vintage models to today’s engineers through innovative, enduring designs that enhance reliability and usability while preserving the bold industrial aesthetics and timeless spirit of the originals.
Soviet American Audio Systems is a partnership between seasoned audio and technical engineer Michael Stucker and first-born American by way of Russia Mike Bridavsky, owner and operator of Russian Recording. This collaboration grew out of their work together restoring and reimagining Russian Recording’s one-of-a-kind Sphere Eclipse Type III console. Their shared expertise and lifelong passion for analog design have resulted in the creation of Soviet American Audio Systems.
TYPE III MP4
Photo of Early Prototype for Reference
THE PREAMPS
TYPE III MP4 &
TYPE III MP500
SERIES MICROPHONE PREAMPS
The Type III MP4 and Type III MP500 microphone preamps are inspired by the original vintage modules modified for Russian Recording’s one-of-a-kind Sphere Eclipse Type III console, with refined frequency response and improved clipping behavior for greater versatility. They will soon be available to the public in a four-channel single-space rack and a single-channel 500-series format. The first run will be limited to 200 Type III MP500s and 60 Type III MP4s.
If you’d like more information and to be notified when pre-orders open, sign up for our waitlist.
The SAAS Type III MP4 is a four-channel rack-mount preamplifier inspired by the original vintage modules modified for Russian Recording’s one-of-a-kind Sphere Eclipse Type III console. Each channel uses Soviet American’s discrete DOA60 op-amp for both preamp and output stages. The op-amp follows a 2520 form factor, operates at ±24 V like the original console cards, and can be swapped for compatible units operating at the same voltage. SAAS op-amps will be available a la carte for custom projects.
The MP4 features four fully discrete channels with custom Cinemag 7341 input and 7393 output transformers built precisely to the original Sphere engineering papers and winding specifications. Input gain is set via a 12-position Grayhill rotary switch, paired with a continuously variable output level control, precision LED metering, 48 V phantom power, polarity reverse, two input impedance settings, and a +20 dB output boost for up to 83 dB of total gain. An external power supply is included.
If you’d like more information and to be notified when pre-orders open, sign up for our waitlist.
The SAAS Type III MP500 is a single-channel 500-series preamplifier derived directly from the vintage modules modified for Russian Recording’s Sphere Eclipse Type III console. It delivers the same fully discrete circuit design, op-amp topology, and Cinemag 7341 input / 7393 output transformers as the Type III MP4, but is engineered to run on the ±16 V rails of a standard 500-series rack.
Each unit uses the Soviet American discrete DOA60 op-amp in both the preamp and output stages, following a 2520 form factor for compatibility with other ±16 V modules. The MP500 also features a proprietary DI input with a dedicated circuit path modeled after classic 1970s solid-state bass amplifiers, providing rich tone and high headroom for direct instruments. Input gain is controlled by a 12-position Grayhill rotary switch, paired with a continuously variable output level control, unique 10-segment LED metering, 48 V phantom power, polarity reverse, two input impedance settings, and a +20 dB output boost for up to 83 dB of total gain.
If you’d like more information and to be notified when pre-orders open, sign up for our waitlist.
TYPE III MP5OO
The LOMO A9 will be the first release in the Soviet American Audio Systems line of Soviet recreations, based on the legendary LOMO 19A9 tube microphone. SAAS is faithfully reproducing the original’s distinctive look and sonic character by recreating its proprietary M7-style capsule and sourcing microphone-grade, hand-selected 6J1P tubes.
We are carefully designing the A9’s power supply to replicate the original LOMO 20B35 PSU, which housed the 19A9’s proprietary output transformer and coupling capacitor network, critical to the unmistakable tone of this iconic microphone.
While preserving all of the 19A9’s most important aesthetic and sonic qualities, enhancements include improved reliability, durability, a modern standard mic thread, and an upgraded multi-pin connector for compatibility and serviceability. The LOMO A9 will also feature a custom SAAS shock mount inspired by obscure Soviet designs and a proprietary pop filter developed specifically for this model.
Coming Soon:
LOMO A9 TUBE MICROPHONE
