Microphone Preamplifiers

In recording studios, microphone preamplifiers (or preamps) are essential tools used to boost the low-level signal from microphones before it is sent to a mixer or recording device. The preamp is the first device in the signal chain, and its primary function is to amplify the microphone’s signal to a usable level without adding too much noise or distortion. A good preamp will provide clean gain, clarity, and warmth to the recorded signal.

In addition to amplifying the signal, preamps also provide other features that are crucial for recording. Many preamps offer phantom power, which is used to power condenser microphones, and they may also have high-pass filters to remove low-frequency rumble and other unwanted noise. Some preamps also provide a selection of input impedance options, which can affect the way the microphone responds to certain frequencies, resulting in different tonal qualities. Preamps can be solid-state or tube-based, each with their unique sound and characteristics. Overall, preamps are critical tools in the recording process, and choosing the right preamp for a particular recording can greatly impact the final sound quality of the recorded track.

Released in 1992
The Drawmer 1960 is a two-channel unit with each channel comprised of a completely natural sounding “soft knee” vacuum tube compressor and an extremely low noise microphone pre-amplifier with switchable 48-volt phantom power. Upon its release in 1993, it was THE mic pre to have!
Released in 1993
The Langevin Dual Mono Mic Preamp is our refined version of the historic Langevin AM-4 console channel.
Released in 1993
In designing the D.W. Fearn VT-1 preamp, no compromise in sonic quality, reliability, or ruggedness was permitted. Like the best tube equipment of the 1950s and ’60s, the VT preamp is built on a heavy-gauge aluminium chassis, utilising point-to-point wiring.
Released in 1994
In designing the D.W. Fearn VT-2 preamp, no compromise in sonic quality, reliability, or ruggedness was permitted. Like the best tube equipment of the 1950s and ’60s, the VT preamp is built on a heavy-gauge aluminium chassis, utilising point-to-point wiring.
Released in 1998
The craftsmanship of the dbx 786 precision microphone preamplifier is as stunning as the engineering is innovative.
Released in 1998
Mic preamps have long been a part of dbx’s reputation as the leader in signal processing technology. In keeping with that proven tradition, dbx proudly enters the vacuum tube domain with the dbx 586 Dual Vacuum Tube Preamp.
Released in 1998
With innovative, state-of-the-art engineering, the dbx 576 Vacuum Tube Preamp/Compressor carries the dbx heritage into the vacuum tube arena.
Released in 1998
The TL Audio 5051 provides the perfect front end for any system by offering a combined preamp, compressor, equaliser and noise gate all in one easy-to-use package: now with an optional digital output.
Released in 1998
The TL Audio 5050 came directly from user requests for a simple yet great sounding valve front end and boasts the winning combination of a mic/line/instrument preamp and mono compressor: making it the most cost-effective way of processing your sources.
Released in 1998
The TL Audio 5001 preamp offers four top quality valve mic preamps in a single 2U package, and now boasts extra features including a discrete mic preamp stage, 30dB pad, instrument DI inputs, improved metering and optional 24-bit digital output.
Released in 1999
The Langevin Dual Vocal Combo is a 2-channel microphone preamplifier with 2 shelf equalisers plus 2 channels of electro-optical limiters.
Released in 1999
If you want to capture sound with stunning realism, clarity, and accuracy, you need a GML Model 8304 Transformerless Microphone Preamp.

Just a Quick

Question?

Can you tell us quickly what it is you love about Vintage Digital, and what it is you would like to see more of on the site? Is there anything you think we should add?
Let us know!