MASTER CUTTER exists because vinyl found its way back into mastering practice. A lathe needs two identical but physically separate stereo signals from the same output stage — one for the preview computer that calculates groove pitch and depth, one for the cutting head. Instead of splitting the signal externally, which easily introduces level or phase differences between the preview path and the cutting path, CUTTER delivers both copies straight from the console.
Dual stereo output for the lathe without compromise
The main output XLR connectors carry six pins instead of the standard three, so a single jack passes two identical stereo signals at once — Y-cables are included to split them into two separate paths. That solves a problem which, with standard gear, usually calls for an extra line amp or transformer splitter, with a risk of adding its own noise or a slight phase offset between the copies. On the CUTTER, both paths originate from the same point in the circuit, so what the preview computer sees is exactly what reaches the cutting head.
The M/S matrix as a vinyl-specific tool
Insert 2 carries the same audiophile-grade sum-and-difference matrix as the MASTER, which has direct practical relevance for cutting a record: excess high-frequency energy on the sides of the stereo image is a common cause of distortion and tracking problems, so de-essing or EQ applied only to the Mid signal tames vocal sibilance without touching the open, spacious top end on the sides. Stereo width control adds a further safety margin when preparing a mix for the groove, and when three inserts stop being enough, MASTER CUTTER pairs with LIAISON to expand the available insert loops from three to seven.
KEY FEATURES
- Two identical, independent stereo outputs for the preview computer and the cutting head
- Six-pin XLR connectors in place of the standard three, with Y-cables included to split the signal
- Three insert loops with stepped switching
- Analog M/S matrix on insert 2 with stereo width control
- Reversible order of inserts 2 and 3 (Flip switch)
- Input Monitor Offset for level-matched before/after comparisons
- Two switchable stereo inputs
- Integration with LIAISON expanding insert loops from three to seven
- 2U rack chassis, hand-built in the USA
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Inputs: 2 stereo, XLR connectors, +4dBu nominal
- Outputs: 3 stereo pairs (one for monitoring), lathe feed on 6-pin XLR connectors
- Input/output control: ±5dB in 0.5dB steps
- Input Monitor Offset: -2 to +8dB in 0.5dB steps
- M/S width control: -4 to +6dB in 0.5dB steps
- Attenuator accuracy: 0.02dB (0.01dB typical)
- Chassis: 2U rack
