ML10X / ML5R frequency response below 100 Hz — bass use

Morningstar Gear ML10X
1

Hi James / Morningstar team,

I’m putting together a bass board around an MC8 Pro and was planning to use either an ML10X or ML5R. Before ordering, I’d appreciate clarification on the low-frequency response of the current units.

A TalkBass user has published measurements of an ML10X showing the response beginning to fall in the low bass region, reportedly around −3 dB at 75 Hz and −5 dB at 50 Hz. He also reported receiving confirmation from Morningstar that this was normal for the buffer circuitry around the matrix-switch IC.

I can see from previous posts here that the ML10X requires buffers around the matrix switching, and that both the ML10X and ML5R use matrix-switch arrays, but I couldn’t find a published frequency-response specification or a forum discussion addressing these LF measurements directly.

Could you please clarify:

  1. Does the currently shipping ML10X still have this low-frequency response?
  2. Has the analog audio path changed in any hardware revision?
  3. Does the ML5R use the same matrix IC / buffer topology, and does it exhibit the same LF response?
  4. What is the measured frequency response or low-frequency −3 dB point of the current ML10X and ML5R?

This is mainly a bass-use question — low E is ~41 Hz and low B ~31 Hz — so a few dB of attenuation in this region would materially affect the choice of switcher.

I already have a MC4Pro and am planning on getting a MC8Pro as well. I really like the Morningstar controller ecosystem and would prefer to keep the switcher in the same system if the current hardware is suitable.

Thanks for any clarification.

2

Hi James

This is something I really would like to know about too. As I was planning of using the Morningstar ML10x as the basis of my Bass pedalboard, so I am also concerned about the reported low frequency loss.