PRE169
Microphone Preamplifier
Studer-Inspired Input Stage
PRE169 is built around a near-perfect replication of the legendary Studer 169 console input stage, delivering a naturally open, transparent sound with an exceptionally wide gain range suited for modern and vintage microphones alike.
Massive Output Transformer Character
To complement its clean input stage, PRE169 features a large Carnhill VT24499 output transformer, the same family used in classic Neve 51-series consoles. This allows you to dial in anything from pristine neutrality to rich, harmonically dense coloration.
Ribbon-Friendly High Gain Performance
With over 67 dB of available gain and a highly stable transformer-balanced input, PRE169 excels with low-output ribbon and dynamic microphones, providing ample headroom and low noise without saturation artifacts.
Musical Low-End Control
A discrete 12 dB/octave high-pass filter, continuously variable from 20 Hz to 315 Hz, makes it easy to remove unwanted rumble and tighten low frequencies while preserving musical weight and depth.
Compact Versatility, Studio-Grade Build
Despite its compact 500-series format, PRE169 delivers the flexibility of a full console channel, including DI input, pad, polarity control, and transformer-driven output character, all built from fully discrete through-hole components.
FEATURES
- Studer 169–inspired discrete input stage with wide, transparent gain range
- Over 67 dB of gain, ideal for ribbon, dynamic, and low-level sources
- Large Carnhill VT24499 output transformer for musical coloration
- Continuously variable 12 dB/octave high-pass filter (20–315 Hz)
- Transformer-balanced microphone input and output stages
- Dedicated DI input with rich transformer character
- Pad and polarity controls for flexible signal management
- 100% discrete through-hole audio path
- API-style 500-series format for easy integration
- Designed and assembled in France using European-sourced components
Specifications
| Format | API® style 500 series |
| Maximum Gain | 67 dB |
| Pad | -33 dB |
| Output Level Control | 0 to -30 dB |
| Phantom Power | +48 V |
| Polarity | Phase reverse switch |
| High-Pass Filter | Discrete 12 dB/octave, variable 20 Hz – 315 Hz |
| Input Transformer | Neutrik NTM-4 |
| Output Transformer | Carnhill VT24499 |
| Frequency Response | ±1 dB from 6.2 Hz to 25 kHz (1 kΩ load) |
| Mic Input Impedance | 1.2 kΩ |
| DI Input Impedance | > 1.0 MΩ |
| Output Impedance | < 20 Ω, transformer balanced |
| Equivalent Input Noise (EIN) | -125 dBu @ max gain (mic input) |
| Power Consumption | 120 mA (peak 215 mA) |
| Manufacturing | Designed and assembled in Saint-Vérand, France using parts sourced from France & Europe |