The AEA TRP500 is the first product in AEA’s third generation of microphone preamps, delivering up to 85 dB of effortless, low-noise DC-coupled JFET gain in a compact 500-series format.
While designed with ribbon microphones in mind, its rich, musical character and ultra-high input impedance also make it an exceptional partner for dynamic, condenser, and vintage tube microphones. Unlike many “clean” preamps, the AEA TRP500 balances neutrality with warmth, enhancing the natural tonality of any microphone.
Based on the proven circuit topology of the original TRP preamp, the AEA TRP500 is optimised to extract the full potential of passive ribbons, offering two selectable input impedances: 11.9 kΩ with phantom power on, and a remarkable 100 kΩ with phantom power off. The high-impedance mode ensures unmatched sensitivity, bandwidth, and transient response, particularly for ribbons, vintage dynamics, and tube mics.
A gentle, switchable high-pass filter (-3 dB at 115 Hz or 230 Hz) is included to manage proximity build-up or low-frequency rumble, while a wide gain range and output trim provide full control.
Handcrafted in Pasadena, California, from locally sourced parts, the AEA TRP500 reflects AEA’s dedication to precision engineering and musicality, making it a powerful yet compact tool for studio and professional recording environments.
Features
- Single-channel, 500 series format
- 85dB of quiet, DC-coupled JFET gain
- Ultra-high impedance (66,000 Ohms)
- Switchable 115 Hz or 230 Hz high-pass filter
- Switchable phantom power and polarity reverse