TK Audio DP3 is a two-channel hybrid microphone preamplifier that combines vintage valve character with modern versatility. Each channel begins with a high-gain input stage built around a Swedish Lundahl transformer, followed by three selectable colour stages: a passive saturation circuit for rich odd harmonics, an active germanium stage for both odd and even harmonics with a softened top end, and a vintage class-A valve stage inserted before the output level control.
This arrangement lets you drive the custom Carnhill transformer in the TK Audio DP3 harder without overloading downstream converters and makes the output less sensitive to varying load impedances. A dedicated high-impedance instrument input, activated by its own switch, bypasses the microphone input stage and feeds directly to the sweepable high-pass filter and selectable colour stages.
A front-panel eight-LED headroom meter monitors internal headroom up to +25 decibels before the output control, ensuring precise level management. Phantom power at 48 volts and polarity inversion are provided, and all switches are illuminated for clear operation in low-light environments. Every TK Audio DP3 is hand assembled and tested in Sweden using specially selected transformers and valves for ultra-low noise and maximum musicality.
Features
- High-gain input stage: Lundahl transformer with up to 80 decibels of gain
- Passive saturation circuit: adds predominantly odd harmonics
- Active germanium stage: provides odd and even harmonics and softens the high end
- Vintage class-A valve stage: inserted before output control for punch and warmth
- Instrument input: two megohm impedance with direct-injection gain of +14 decibels
- Sweepable high-pass filter: 30 Hz to 400 Hz at 12 decibels per octave
- Headroom meter: eight-LED display monitoring internal headroom before the output control
- Phantom power: 48 volts with separate LED indicator
- Polarity switch: front-panel phase inversion
- Illuminated switches: all switching functions clearly lit
