A microphone preamplifier, or preamp, is at the heart of any sound system, be it for recording, live sound, or radio transmission.
Function
The primary function of a microphone preamplifier is to boost the signal of a microphone to line level. This is done through a variable gain control.
Types
A microphone preamplifier can be transistor- (solid-state) or tube-based. Each imparts a different characteristic, or color, to the sound that it amplifies.
Variations
A microphone preamplifier can be purchased individually or in combination with a mixing console. Some individual microphone preamplifiers are modeled after a single channel of a particular mixing console.
Controls
A basic microphone preamplifier will feature phantom power and a variable gain control. Other optional controls include a pad, hi-pass filter and phase reversal.
Connectivity
At the very least, a microphone preamplifier will have an XLR input and output. Many individual preamps also feature a high-impedance input (for instruments) as well as a 1/4-inch TRS input and output for added connectivity.
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