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Instrument Preamp

Name: Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp
SKU: IGB3465690571
Price: 98.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Original price was: $1,099.00.Current price is: $98.00.

SKU: IGB3465690571 Category: Preamps

Description
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Description

It had to happen sooner or later. Leave it to the innovators at Warm Audio to build a microphone preamp based on the tube electronics of the iconic American professional tape machine that recorded countless radio-ready hits during the golden age of analog. From the rock pioneers of the 50s and 60s to todays sound-savvy artists, the legendary 351 has been the secret sauce in the signal chain that delivers the vintage-flavored warmth and color we all seek in our own recordings. The Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel tube mic/line/instrument preamp incorporates an original-spec circuit design, authentically reproducing the coveted analog sonics of the original. Handwired and hand assembled using only premium, all-discrete components, including custom-wound, original-spec large-core CineMag USA transformers, the WA-MPX serves up instant sounds-like-a-record punch for tracks that blast right out of the speakers. But theres so much more to this amazing preamp that makes it indispensable to modern hybrid studio workflows.

Original circuit design, full feature set

While staying true to the original circuit design, Warm Audio added all the modern amenities that make the WA-MPX impressively versatile in the studio. Used in conjunction with the preamp gain and output level controls, the tape saturation switch makes it easy to tweak your gain structure from wide-open and crystalline to sizzling hot. The addition of Warm Audios classic tone switch lets you modify microphone input transformer impedance for mic optimization or extra analog color. Also onboard are a great-sounding instrument DI input, handy highpass and lowpass filters, polarity reverse, and of course, 48V phantom power. The WA-MPX employs three premium vacuum tubes: two 12AX7s and one 12AU7. In a stroke of engineering genius, Warm Audio included a high-gain switch that engages the third tube, boosting the available gain from 70dB to a staggering 90dB. Now you can finally deploy your favorite, notoriously low-gain passive ribbon mic on whisper-quiet sources!

Smooth and confident in operation

The WA-MPX graces any control room rack with its alluring visuals hearkening back to the vintage tape machine that inspired it. A model of simplicity, the WA-MPXs thick brushed aluminum front panel presents a logical and businesslike control layout with large, grippy knobs and a warmly lit VU meter. On the left, you have a rotary input select switch with mic, line, and instrument settings. To its right are the instrument jack and seven switches that engage the previously mentioned functions. And finally, theres that gorgeous VU meter flanked by preamp gain and output level knobs. In operation, the pots and switches feel silky smooth and inspire confidence. The WA-MPX is a very professional package, but we would expect nothing less from Warm Audio. And for pros with higher channel-count requirements, note that Warm Audio also makes a 2-channel version, theWA-2MPX.

An incredible value you dont want to pass up

With the WA-MPX, theyve done it again by delivering a feature-rich, hand-assembled, boutique-grade tube preamp at an amazingly affordable price. The flexible gain structure gives you broad latitude to push the tubes, dialing in natural harmonic distortion and compression that imbues sources with authentic 15IPS reel-to-reel sound. The WA-MPX offers mic/line inputs and balanced outputs on XLR and TRS for easy integration into your studio or mobile rig. And its robust metal chassis, stout rackmount faceplate, and discrete handwired internals make it an ideal preamp for front-of-house and location recording. Equipped with a rugged internal power supply and switchable 115/230 voltage, the WA-MPX is ready for action on any continent your productions take you to. Factor in its surprisingly low price tag, and it all adds up to an incredible value. Supercharge your recordings with the sound of a legend: the Warm Audio WA-MPX tube preamp.