3VU (Custom)

• Customize your 3VU!
• Hand built using top quality components
• Three independent calibration points
• Transparent bypass
• Uses a JLM Audio VU buffer amplifier to keep the signal clean
• Featuring the DIYRE HC1, a high current, low noise
  Headphone amplifier with an upgraded Alps “Blue Velvet” volume control
• Choose your own colors for the case and decals 
• Choose from XLR, 1/4″ or RCA connections
• 5 different color LED options
• Resonance absorbing rubber feet 
• Triad Magnetics 12v power supply
• Full one year warranty
• Get weekly updates & pictures of your build until it ships (2-4 weeks build time estimate)

3VU Owner’s Manual

The 3VU was designed to be placed across the main outputs, before your monitor controller and speakers. It features a buffer amplifier by JLM Audio to provide proper rectification to the DC type VU meters, and prevent any noise from coming back into the signal. The 3VU is transparent and will not degrade or change the audio path in any way. The bypass is built using 14 gauge teflon-coated, solid core silver plated copper wire. What comes into the 3VU is exactly what comes out of the “thru” connections.

Having the meters placed across the main outputs presented an opportunity to add something that is missing from most budget/entry level audio interfaces: a high-quality, monitoring grade headphone amplifier. The HC1 from DIYRE is a clean, low-noise, high gain amplifier that is based on Douglas Self’s NE5532 amplifier design; each channel is practically a complete amplifier with its own NE5532P opamp. I’ve upgraded the volume control with the revered Alps “Blue Velvet” pot, which has a fantastic left/right channel balance down to the lowest levels. 

Each 3VU is hand made and built to last a lifetime using high quality components. The passive switching network uses Lorlin UK switches and Bourns Pro Audio potentiometers. The buffer amp & headphone amp PCBs, and all terminals are soldered with Cardas quad eutectic. It can take a balanced (XLR or 1/4″) or unbalanced (RCA) signal, although the HC1 headphone amp is unbalanced. After working with my VUs in this configuration for more than ten years, I believe they can be easily incorporated into your own workflow’s loudness targets for recording, mixing, mastering, or simply playing back reference tracks.

Choose a basic paint color for your case options. After receiving your order, I will reach out with a full list of available paint colors in that range. A 50% deposit is required for this custom build, or pay the full amount. The balance is due when the 3VU is ready to ship, approximately 2-4 weeks after placing the order. After the unit is fully tested and ready to be shipped, I will contact you to request the balance. Returns are not allowed on custom-built units. Your 3VU will be tested thoroughly before shipping and backed by a full one-year warranty (see Additional Information section for details).

Some of the components used for this build, including the premium solder that I use come with the following health warning, and I need to make you aware of it. I wear protective gear and make sure to properly clean the outer surfaces on all my builds prior to shipping them, but here you go:

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information, go to http://www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Questions? Use the contact form on the home page.