Like all AEA products, the TRP500 is 100 percent handcrafted in Pasadena, California from locally sourced parts.
The first product in AEA’s 3rd-generation of microphone preamps, the TRP500 leans on the side of neutral but is unlike other “clean” preamps because of its rich and musical tonality. Optimized for ribbon mics, the TRP500 offers up to 85dB of effortless gain for any microphone.
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TRP500 PREAMP OVERVIEW
- Single-channel, 500 series format
- 85dB of quiet, DC-coupled JFET gain
- Ultra-high impedance (100,000 Ohms)
- Switchable 115 Hz or 230 Hz high-pass filter
- Switchable phantom power and polarity reverse
Based on the circuit and topology of the company’s original AEA TRP preamp, the TRP500 has the low noise, musical sonics, and ultra-high gain and impedance (100,000 Ohms) that AEA is renowned for. The TRP500 excels at drawing out the warmth and lush sound of ribbon mics as well as other top-level microphones. With up to 85 dB of quiet DC-coupled gain, minimal path architecture, and a gentle 115 Hz or 230 Hz high pass filter, this preamp puts as little as possible between you and your audience.
The ultra-high gain DC-coupled JFET circuit has two input impedances: 11,900 Ohms with phantom power “ON” and 100,000 Ohms with phantom power “OFF.” The 100,000 Ohm mode brings out the best in passive ribbons and tube mics, and also provides a unique balanced input for vintage, high-impedance dynamic mics. This versatility ensures the highest sensitivity, bandwidth, transient response, and clarity possible for a wide variety of microphones.
Where to buy: 
MSRP: $599
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