Retro Instruments 500PRE 500 Series Tube Mic Preamp (Demo / Open Box)

Description

Category 500 Series Modular Synth Keyboards Microphones Preamps Dynamics Equalizers Monitoring Computer Audio Interfaces Software Beat Production Retro Instruments 500PRE 500 Series Tube Mic Preamp (Demo / Open Box) The Retro Instruments 500PRE is a vintage-inspired 500 Series microphone preamplifier that combines the circuit topology of the legendary Sta-Level tube compressor with class-leading distortion, noise and frequency response characteristics in a compact package. Equipped with three powerful 12AT7 tubes, the 500PRE delivers thick, rich analog tone with gentle limiting characteristics—making it the perfect tool for tracking and mixing. UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE The Retro Instruments 500PRE packs the massive tone of the Sta-Level compressor into a compact 500 series module. This thick, rich-sounding preamp offers the same depth, detail and musicality of your favorite tube compressors from yesteryear. With minimal distortion, vanishingly low noise, and a balanced, neutral frequency response, the 500PRE delivers world-class tone that never sounds plastic and brittle like solid-state amplifiers. HEAVY-DUTY CONTROLS The Retro Instruments 500PRE features an inviting interface with rugged, heavy-duty knobs and a durable steel chassis. A large input knob at the top lets you dial up an impressive 75 dB of amplification. Below the input knob are three hefty switches for Gain Select, Phantom Power and Polarity. The Gain Select switch toggles between two input modes. Low Gain mode uses a classic two-stage amplifier and can sustain +10 dBu input levels without overload, while High Gain mode uses a high gain, three stage topology. Below the Gain Select switch is the Phantom Power switch, which is used to provide 48 V for recording with condenser microphones. The Polarity switch lets you invert the polarity of the incoming signal—a useful feature when recording in stereo. TUBE LIMITING Equipped with three new-production TAD 12AT7 tubes and soft-start circuitry that minimizes stress to the tubes and power supply, the 500PRE is built to last. Unlike old-school tube gear which can take what seems like an eternity to heat up, the 500PRE is warm and ready to go in less than 60 seconds. And for those who prefer the original, the 500PRE is also compatible with vintage and new-old-stock tubes. In addition to giving your recordings a rich, warm tone, 500PRE gracefully limits input signals at +18 dBu, without destroying the details of your transients. The perfect limiter for both tracking and mixing, 500PRE is ideal for fattening up tracks with thick, rich harmonics that never sound plastic or brittle like solid-state amplifiers, even when overdriven. About Us Since 1993, we have been committed to equipping our customers with the very best gear, advice, and personal service anywhere. We believe that great sound can be achieved at any budget. We also believe that the ambitions of our customers should always come first. For us, it's about building long-lasting relationships, not just selling gear. And over the years, those beliefs have turned customers into friends and family. Whether you're just starting out, or a seasoned pro, we're here for you, no matter where your audio travels may take you. Shipping Policy Free ground shipping to the lower 48 states Via FedEx. All of our items ship via FedEx. On checkout, it may look like you are selecting a UPS shipping method, but the item will be shipped via the equivalent FedEx method. Import Duties and Tax Since import taxes and/or duties that your government might impose on products shipped from the United States may apply, you (the customer), are solely responsible for shipping charges, taxes, and duties, once goods arrive in your country. Undeliverable/Rejected Package If your package was rejected by your local Customs Bureau or the shipment could not be delivered and was returned to Vintage King Audio for any reason, we are not responsible for the shipping costs. Free Extended Warranty All new items that Vintage King carries are subject to our FREE extended warranty protection. Basically, if the manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty on your product, then you are covered under the same warranty terms for a total of 2 years from the time of initial shipment. Likewise, if the manufacturer offers a 5-year warranty, then you receive a total of 6 years of coverage when purchased through Vintage King. We add 1 year to your standard manufacturer's warranty period, FREE of charge, whatever the manufacturer's warranty period may be. Duties and tax for warranty and damage replacement items International Duties and tax for warranty and damage replacement items may apply. Even though you may have paid shipping, taxes or duty on your original order, it is IMPORTANT to understand that your government may impose duties and taxes for warranty items or replacement items damaged during shipment from the United States for the new order. You (the customer), are solely responsible for shipping charges, taxes, and duties, once goods arrive in your country. Used Item Warranties Vintage King offers an industry-leading level of technical service and warranty support on our used and vintage items. Our used item warranty periods are as follows: Analog Outboard Gear – 1 Year Microphones – 1 Year (excluding capsules, tubes, and ribbon elements) Speakers – 1 Year (excluding drivers) Digital Outboard Gear – 30 Days Return Policy We do our best to help you choose the perfect gear, but if you don't love it in the first 30 days after receipt, please contact us through eBay for a return authorization. Note: Software is not returnable or refundable. What Are "Demo Deal" or "B-Stock" Products? Our Demo Deals and B-Stock products offer a unique opportunity to save big on near-mint condition, fully warrantied gear. These items have been opened for demonstration purposes and put back in the box without extended use. All original factory accessories and packaging are included. In addition to the manufacturer's warranty, Demo Deal and B-Stock items also come with an additional 1-year of warranty coverage from Vintage King, free of charge, so rest assured that not only are you saving big by purchasing a Demo Deal/B-Stock item, but you will also receive the same level of world-class support from Vintage King as with the purchase of a factory-sealed unit. Taxes Vintage King collects sales tax for shipments to Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C., Wisconsin and Wyoming. Partial and complete tax exemptions may be available in your state. Contact us through eBay for details. Note: eBay may collect sales tax in states not listed above.