S-HILLS M-GAMA Preamp
Transformer versatility. Uncompromising clarity. True stereo depth.
The S-HILLS M-GAMA captures one of the most inspiring 500-series preamps we’ve had the opportunity to work with.
In fact, it might be our favorite 500-series preamp we’ve ever used.
Designed with multiple transformer options, the Mono Gama offers remarkably different tonal personalities from a single compact preamp — from exceptionally clean and transparent response to bold transformer coloration and rich analog weight.
This collection captures all three transformer characters, preserving the distinctive behavior and tonal identity of each circuit while retaining the exceptional clarity, punch, and musicality of the original hardware.
Both channels were captured independently, allowing the profiles to be used as a true stereo pair while preserving the subtle channel-to-channel differences of the original hardware.
Experience These Profiles with TSC Rack
To get the most out of these profiles, we recommend using TSC Rack — our original plugin designed specifically for Tokyo Studio Capture profiles.
TSC Rack fully supports the latest NAM A2 architecture, delivering the highest level of accuracy currently available, while also providing seamless True Stereo operation through independent Left and Right profile loading.
With its integrated profile browser, four processing slots, Auto Phase Calibration, Native Sample Rate Processing, and automatic profile management, TSC Rack makes working with NAM faster, simpler, and more enjoyable than ever.
New to NAM?
If you’re just getting started with Neural Amp Modeler, our step-by-step NAM Guide covers everything you need—from installing the plugin to loading your first profile.
What’s Included
A collection of S-HILLS M-GAMA profiles captured across all three transformer configurations, with both channels profiled independently for true stereo operation.
Profiles included:
- S-HILLS M-GAMA – Nickel Transformer CH1
Clean and refined transformer tone with a smooth, balanced response.
Transformer: Nickel / Channel: CH1 - S-HILLS M-GAMA – Nickel Transformer CH2
Clean and refined transformer tone with a smooth, balanced response.
Transformer: Nickel / Channel: CH2 - S-HILLS M-GAMA – Discrete CH1
Ultra-clean transformerless clarity with exceptionally fast transient response.
Transformer: Discrete / Channel: CH1 - S-HILLS M-GAMA – Discrete CH2
Ultra-clean transformerless clarity with exceptionally fast transient response.
Transformer: Discrete / Channel: CH2 - S-HILLS M-GAMA – Steel Transformer CH1
Bold transformer coloration with tight low-end weight and distinctive character.
Transformer: Steel / Channel: CH1 - S-HILLS M-GAMA – Steel Transformer CH2
Bold transformer coloration with tight low-end weight and distinctive character.
Transformer: Steel / Channel: CH2
Three Distinct Transformer Characters
The Mono Gama’s selectable transformer configurations give this collection an unusually broad tonal range for a single preamp.
Nickel provides a smooth, refined transformer character with excellent balance and natural musicality.
Discrete delivers exceptionally clean, fast, and open response, preserving transient detail with minimal coloration.
Steel introduces a more pronounced transformer character, adding weight, density, and distinctive analog coloration while maintaining tight low-end control.
Together, these three configurations cover everything from pristine recording clarity to unmistakable analog character.
True Stereo Operation
Both channels of the original hardware were captured independently, rather than duplicating a single profile across Left and Right.
This preserves the subtle differences between the two channels and allows the profiles to recreate the natural stereo behavior of a real two-channel hardware setup.
For the intended True Stereo workflow, load the matching CH1 and CH2 profiles using TSC Rack’s L/R Split mode.
This gives you independent Left and Right processing while preserving the depth, width, and dimensional character of the original hardware.
Sound Characteristics
- Nickel transformer delivers smooth, refined, and balanced analog character
- Discrete configuration provides exceptionally clean and fast transient response
- Steel transformer adds weight, density, and distinctive harmonic coloration
- Multiple transformer configurations provide exceptional tonal flexibility
- Independent CH1 and CH2 captures preserve authentic stereo behavior
- Designed for recording, mix buss, mastering, and stereo processing
Audio Demo
Compare the original hardware signal and the NAM profile across a range of sources — full mixes, drums, bass, vocals, guitars, synths, and more.
Each example demonstrates how closely the profiles capture the transformer character, transient response, harmonic behavior, and tonal identity of the original hardware.
The NAM and hardware samples are gain-matched to allow for a more accurate evaluation of the capture’s fidelity.
For additional context, a dry (unprocessed) version is also included.
Why this capture is different
- Captured from one of our favorite 500-series preamps
- All three transformer configurations captured
- CH1 and CH2 profiled independently for authentic True Stereo operation
- Wide tonal range from ultra-clean transparency to bold transformer coloration
- Consistent calibration across all profiles
- Optimized for TSC Rack’s L/R Split workflow
Waveform Comparison (Hardware vs NAM)
Below is a direct comparison between the original hardware signal and the NAM profile output.
This visualization highlights how accurately the transient response, harmonic character, and tonal behavior are preserved.
Technical notes
- Format: NAM (.nam)
- Sample Rate: 48kHz
- Capture Type: Real hardware
- Calibration: Studio-level gain staging
- Stereo Configuration: Dual Mono (CH1 + CH2)
- Transformer Configurations: Nickel / Discrete / Steel
Gain Staging Advice
Our captures are pre-calibrated at -18 dBFS input level.
For best results, we recommend feeding the plugin with an input signal close to -18 dBFS.
As with the original hardware, input level can influence the amount of transformer coloration and harmonic character.
Lower levels will preserve a cleaner and more transparent response, while hotter signals can bring out greater transformer density, harmonic richness, and analog coloration.
Please level-match carefully when comparing profiles to better evaluate tonal differences rather than perceived loudness.
Disclaimer
This product consists of digital NAM profiles and impulse responses captured from real hardware.
All products are independently developed by TSC (Tokyo Studio Capture) and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to any hardware or software manufacturers.
Any product names, references, or visual elements are used strictly for descriptive purposes only. All trademarks and brand names are the property of their respective owners.
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