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 2008

Focusrite ISA 220 Channel Strip

The Focusrite ISA 220 is a channel strip combining a transformer-based mic preamp, EQ, compressor, de-esser, and limiter. It offers smooth compression with a unique “Blend” feature and optional digital output for high-quality recording. Ideal for tracking, mixing, and mastering, it delivers Focusrite’s signature sound in a compact unit.
Released in 2008

Universal Audio LA610 MkII Classic Tube Recording Channel

The Universal Audio LA610 MkII combines a hand-built in the USA, all-tube, vintage mic preamp design – heard on classic albums by Coldplay, The Beach Boys, and Van Halen – with authentic Teletronix T4 opto-compression circuitry.
Released in 2008

Requisite PAL Plus Preamplifier & Limiter Mk III

The Requisite PAL Preamplifier and Limiter is now in its Mk III version but retains all the goodness of previous version with some sonic improvements.
Released in 2008

ART MPA Gold Two Channel Microphone Preamplifier

The ART MPA Gold Two-Channel microphone preamplifiers use differential input Class-A two-channel tube microphone preamp design with variable input impedance and selectable tube plate voltage to create the most versatile high performance microphone preamplifiers in its class. It delivers unmatched warmth, presence and clarity.
Released in 2008

ART Pro Channel Professional Tube Microphone Preamplifier

The ART Pro Channel from ART is the latest offering from the world’s most popular tube dynamics processing manufacturer. ART engineers have combined the world-renowned Pro MPA, Pro VLA, and Tube EQ into a single product – creating the world’s best-sounding and most affordable professional recording channel.
Released in 2008

TL Audio A1 Dual Preamp

The TL Audio A1 Dual Preamp features two independent channels, with each channel offering mic and instrument inputs.
Released in 2008

TL Audio A3 Channel Strip

The TL Audio A3 Channel Strip is a single channel unit, accepting mic, line and instrument inputs. Processing includes gain and phase control, compression and equalisation. A tube stage may be switched into the signal path, with variable drive control.
Released in 2009

SPL Frontliner Channel Strip

The SPL Frontliner has everything to record voices and instruments in perfect quality: Positioned even above the already legendary Channel One, the Frontliner combines preamp, de-esser, EQ and compressor, tube saturation, which can be used individually or in combination.
Released in 2009

A-Designs Pacifica Microphone Preamplifier

The A-Designs Pacifica is a high-end dual-channel mic preamp inspired by the classic Quad Eight console, delivering a rich, detailed sound with custom Cinemag transformers, wide frequency response, and a sonic character praised for combining the best of Neve, API, and Massenburg designs.
Released in 2009

TUBE-TECH MEC 1A Recording Channel

The TUBE-TECH MEC 1A is a single-channel recording unit featuring a tube-based mic preamp, equaliser, and compressor. It uses a tube operational amplifier for its filters and includes fully floating transformers for input and output. Most DC voltages are stabilised, ensuring high-quality performance.
Released in 2010

Empirical Labs Mike-E Microphone Preamplifier

The Empirical Labs Mike-E is a digitally controlled, transformer-coupled mic preamp with ultra-low noise and a unique CompSatâ„¢ section that combines saturation, compression, and high-frequency emphasis. It delivers clean yet musical signals with vintage-style tonal shaping, all in an easy-to-use layout.
Released in 2010

Thermionic Culture The Earlybird 4 Microphone Preamplifier

The Thermionic Culture The Earlybird 4 is a four-channel valve preamplifier in a nineteen-inch rack, offering 3 dB to 62 dB of clean class A gain, switchable input impedance and handwired point-to-point construction. Its custom Sowter transformers deliver minimal phase shift and high headroom, and a pair of VU metres and peak LEDs provide clear level monitoring.