Top 10 Best Microphone Preamps Review 2023 – Expert Guide

As soon as the microphone is connected to the signal path, the microphone preamp is the next device that has to be connected. It is necessary to have preamps that can amplify mic signals to the level of line level, which is the rate at which recording equipment operates at normal recording levels. Getting a little extra gain from a preamp is necessary even when you are going direct with a higher output instrument like a guitar or keyboard. The microphone preamplifier is arguably the most important part of any signal chain, regardless of the type.

A microphone preamplifier is usually included as part of an audio interface. The sound quality from these devices is excellent for most of us who record at home. Dedicated hardware microphone preamps carry their own sets of advantages, however, including improved sound quality, a specific character of desired sound, more gain, and sometimes a lower amount of noise than software-based preamps.

There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re looking to purchase your first budget mic pre to bring to the studio, or if you’re getting ready to explore top-of-the-line gear.

There are many microphone preamps on the market, but we have chosen the best microphone preamps based on the amount of power they are capable of delivering so that you can be sure that you produce the best quality signal output from your recording instruments, microphones, and microphone preamps. Designed for condenser, dynamic, ribbon, or other types of microphones, these microphone preamps feature adjustable gain so that the level of the signal can be controlled to achieve optimal results.

In addition, the headphones are also fitted with a standard headphone jack, and they work with almost all audio and video recording apps. Moreover, with some of these microphone preamps, you will be able to connect the cable to an iLine camera adapter, which will allow you to easily record using it with digital cameras. It has been tested by our knowledgeable experts which microphone preamps are the best in terms of sound quality, price, and value for money from among the multitude of preamps available. In case you’re looking for some good microphone preamps, have a look at our top picks below to see that we have compiled a list of the best ones that we think you’ll enjoy.

#1. Best ART Tube Microphone Preamp

Type: Hybrid microphone Preamp

Inputs: Standard microphone inputs

Features: Aluminium stackable chassis, compact and reliable

View Full Specs: ART Tube Microphone Preamp

A professional quality audio interface with a hybrid design, the MP Project Series Audio Interface from ART Tube is a professional grade audio interface equipped with a microphone input, an instrument input, and line level input that can be connected to a mixer or another audio input device. If you raise the volume on your computer’s mixer, you may experience distortion or noise hums as a result of making the volume higher than it should be, which can be a problem when trying to adjust the volume to a nice comfortable level.

You will find this preamp to be able to provide you with up to 70 dB of clean gain, with balanced and unbalanced input and output options. There are also XLR balanced inputs and outputs, as well as 1/4 inch unbalanced inputs and outputs. Known for its frequency response of 10Hz – 40kHz +/-1 dB, dynamic range of more than 100dB, and harmonic distortion of less than 0.05%, it has a frequency response range from 10Hz to 40kHz +/-1 dB. In addition, this module has a high performance discrete front end with ultra low noise, a fast FET limiter to prevent overloading, as well as a precision LED meter to gauge real-time voltage.

The audio interface provides a built-in 48V low noise phantom power supply, so that condenser microphones can be used with the interface with the option to select the input impedance via a switch. Additionally, the device includes a switch for phase inversion as well as a switch for enabling the high-cut filter. As a result of the compact size, stackability, and aluminum material of the chassis, it guarantees both durability and the build quality of robust machines. In summary, the ART Tube MP Project Series is a cost-effective and high-quality solution that offers a wide range of features.

#2. Best ART Tube MPSTV3 Microphone Preamp

Type: Valve voicing tube mic preamp with limiter

Inputs: Standard microphone input

Features: Rugged all-steel construction, 1.5 lbs

View Full Specs: ART Tube MPSTV3 Microphone Preamp

A premium quality valve mic preamp, the ART Tube MPSTV3 includes a limiter to prevent the sound from being clipped due to the variable valve voicing. A balanced XLR input and an unbalanced jack output can be used for the input of mic-level audio signals, line-level audio signals, and the output of high-impedance instrument signals, and the output can be connected to either a balanced XLR or an unbalanced jack.

The microphone’s frequency response is roughly 10Hz to 30kHz, and the equivalent input noise is -129dBA. An XLR has an output level of +28dBu and a dynamic range of 100 dB. A moving coil VU meter illuminates to display the output level, and there is a mic gain of up to 70 dB. Separate input and output gain controls are included, along with 48 V phantom power and phase reversal, as well as a switchable 20 dB gain boost.

In addition to indicating power and clipping/limiting, the unit has a multi-colour LED. EQ presets are also included, which provide 15 different switchable voicings for your bass or synths, enabling you to significantly improve their sound. With its all-steel construction, the amp offers years of dependable, continuous performance. It measures 5.0″D x 5.5″W x 2.0″H and weighs only 1.5 pounds.

#3. Best ART Pro MP Microphone Preamp

Type: Two channel discrete Class A microphone preamp

Inputs: Standard microphone inputs

Features: Rugged all-steel construction, 1.5 lbs

View Full Specs: ART Pro MP Microphone Preamp

A discrete class-A microphone preamplifier, like the Art Pro MPA II, is two channels in size. High-quality dynamic and ribbon microphones come with a variable input impedance circuit, which shows the overall performance of the microphone and is used to vary the overall quality of the output that is being generated by the microphone. A 48-volt phantom power supply can also be selected to allow condenser microphones to be used with this microphone.

With the Pro MPA II, you can select the option of using a mid-side microphone or a side mic. The adjacent channels will be summed in order to decode the left/right signals, allowing for dual mono or stereo operation. With its hand-selected 12AX7 tubes, you are able to control the preamp tone and performance based on the plate voltage of the two tubes that are integrated into it for a wide range of options. Low noise at low gain settings along with extremely low harmonic distortion make it a great choice for those who want crystal clear sound performance.

A large back-lit analog VU output meter shows the level of either the input or output, and a multi-color LED array shows the tube gain indicating either the average or peak value. Anodized aluminum with CNC routing, along with an integrated 2 space rack mountable steel chassis, make the amp a great solution for studio, production, and on the road sound reinforcement. The chassis of the amp ensures sturdy build quality, durability, and reliable operation in the studio, production facility, or on the road. For those who mix music primarily “in the box” with no hardware and who don’t want to buy any additional equipment, the ART Pro MPA II is a highly recommended product.

#4. Best Golden Age Pre-73 Microphone Preamp

Type: Integrated microphone Preamp

Inputs: Standard microphone inputs; input and output is transformer balanced

Features: Selectable 6 dB/octave two frequency high pass filter, switchable impedance

View Full Specs: Golden Age Pre-73 MKIII Microphone Preamp

This Pre-73 MKIII microphone preamp from Golden Age Project is one of the best microphone preamps available on the market. For the transmission of the signal, this system uses only discrete components, like resistors, capacitors, and transistors, which were produced before integrated circuits became readily available on the market. The system uses vintage electronic components that were constructed before integrated circuits became readily available on the market. Originally, audio components were constructed in this way before integrated circuits became readily available (this is what we still do today).

Transformer balance is used on both the input and output, each of which uses a different transformer, each of which is optimized for the particular function it will perform. So as a result, it is obvious that the sound performance is characterized by a warm, punchy, sweet, and musical sound character that comes out of it. In addition, the preamp is capable of handling passive ribbon microphones as well as sources with quiet sound levels. As a result of the switch between the GAIN/LINE modes, the gain in the LINE mode is reduced by 30 dB. Among its features is its two-position selectable AIR boost EQ, which allows you to select three or six dB at 30 kHz in the high frequency band.

The MKIII microphone preamp also features a two frequency high pass filter selectable by 6 dB/octave and switchable by impedance in MIC mode as well as a two frequency low pass filter. In addition to this, the microphone is also provided with phantom power possibility so that condenser microphones can be connected and the phase can also be controlled accurately. Golden Age Project Pre-73 MKII has enough features to be able to adjust it in order to get just the right amount of color, allowing you not only to boost the volume of your microphone, but also to use it as a creative tool if you choose to. Overall, the Pre-73 MKII is a high quality microphone with enough features for you to use it creatively.

#5. Best 1K Multimedia Microphone Preamp

Type: Portable microphone Preamp

Inputs: XLR microphone input with adjustable sensitivity

Features: 48V phantom power for use with condenser microphones

View Full Specs: 1K Multimedia iRig Microphone Preamp

IRig PRE is a high-quality iRig PRE preamp and includes a microphone input level control and pad for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices. In order to preserve the sound of your favorite microphones, it is equipped with a high-quality, low-noise preamp, which plays a key role in delivering crystal clear sound quality. It is equipped with a gain control to ensure you are able to position the signal at the optimal level, plus 48 volts of phantom power for the use of condenser microphones, along with a 1/8″ headphone output to assist in real-time monitoring via apps that are compatible with this product.

Through the standard headphone jack, the iRig microphone preamp is easily connected to virtually any audio or video recorder app that supports the standard 3.5mm jack. It is possible to use any XLR microphone, whether it is dynamic, condenser, ribbon or any combination of these, with iRig PRE with the option of 48 V phantom power. As a part of the 3.5 mm output, you are able to hear the final result of the recording while you are recording (with applications that support monitoring in real time).

By using the integrated Velcro strip and the 16 inch / 40 cm cable, you are able to easily mount the iRig PRE anywhere you need it to be. A 9V battery is used in order to prevent it from drawing power from your device’s battery. It is estimated that the 9V battery in normal use will last up to 30 hours, but if you use Phantom power you may only get 10 hours. A very simple way to capture quality audio for your video production is by connecting your iRig PRE to a DSLR camera or another digital camera with the optional iLine Camera Adapter cable.

#6. Best TNP 2 Channel Microphone Preamp

Type: Two channel compact microphone Preamp

Inputs: RCA ports, 2 3/4 microphone ports for variety of microphone inputs

Features: Control 2 microphone volumes separately with a simple knob

View Full Specs: TNP 2 Channel Microphone Preamp

There are two channels of microphones provided with the TNP mini audio mixing device in order to achieve high-quality, compact audio mixing results. In addition to being very easy to set up and use, the unit requires very little time to set up and is capable of delivering crisp and clear sound quality, which is perfect for beginners as well as business users. With this system, you can adjust the volume of two microphones independently and smoothly, achieving the best audio quality possible by adjusting each microphone’s volume independently. Therefore, both microphones can adjust their volume independently and smoothly in order to make sure that they are adjusted independently and smoothly in order to ensure the highest audio quality possible. In a microphone preamplifier, the gain is usually 50 dB and the input impedance is 600 ohms, and the device has a calibration gain of 50 dB.

With the two 1/4″ and six 3.5mm input ports on the microphones, you will be able to connect the microphone to a wide variety of types of microphones. Simply by turning a knob on your device, you can easily adjust the sound quality of your device with a great deal of precision. In order to ensure consistent audio performance from the mixer, a power adapter is supplied with the mixer which can be plugged into a 12VDC power source, ensuring you can power it directly from this power source. It can be hooked up to a wide variety of audio equipment, such as music players, iPods and other electronics, so you will always be able to listen to your favorite music, as there are RCA ports on the back of this device that are compatible with many audio equipment types.

Furthermore, the TNP2 microphone preamp incorporates anchor points in order to secure the unit to a stable surface. The anchor points are part of the unit in addition to anchoring the body. There is also a set of screws included with this package that will allow you to securely mount the device to the wall along with the AC adapter. It measures 4 inches wide by 2.5 inches deep by 1.25 inches high, so it measures 4 inches wide by 2.5 inches deep by 1.25 inches tall. The weight of the device is 11.2 ounces. Two microphone channels are one of the things that make this mixer so versatile. As it has two dedicated microphone channels, it can be used for a wide range of audio projects, ranging from DJ events to DIY audio projects.

#7. Best Saramonic SR-PAX1 Microphone Preamp

Type: Two channel audio mixer with phantom power

Inputs: 2x balanced XLR, 2 x 3.5mm (TRS), 2 x 6.3mm

Features: Gain control knobs, line/mic/phantom switch

View Full Specs: Saramonic SR-PAX1 Microphone Preamp

It is designed specially for DSLR cameras, mirrorless digital cameras, camcorders with microphone jacks, and it is also designed to work with mirrorless digital cameras and mirrorless digital cameras with phantom power. Two sets of inputs are available on this unit, so it can accommodate signals coming from various sources including microphones (with XLR connectors), wireless microphones, instruments that have a 6.35 mm connector, and a variety of mics and line-level sources, including balanced XLR mics (with XLR connectors).

A 3.5mm jack is also provided on the back of the unit for connecting mobile devices that have a 3.5 mm output, such as smartphones or MP3 players, to the device. Moreover, it provides phantom power connectable to the XLR jacks on the unit, and 5 V for the 1/8″ (3.5 mm) jacks on the unit, allowing you to connect a wide variety of microphones to the unit. Through the dual control knobs located at the top of the unit, it is possible to easily control the input level of each channel. With a 3.5 mm TRS output, it can be used for DSLR camera, mirrorless camera, camcorder, and other digital cameras.

There are two sources of audio in the Saramonic SR-PAX1, which allows you to record and mix two different types of audio with professional quality. Additionally, the unit is equipped with 3 cold shoe mounts directly on the device, as well as gain adjustment knobs and line/mic/phantom switches. There is also a mono/stereo switch, a 3.5 mm headphone monitoring jack, and three line/mic/phantom switches in addition to a mono/stereo switch. The device needs to be powered by either an alkaline or lithium battery (9 V alkaline or lithium battery is not included in the package). In order to monitor audio,you need to have a phone jack connected to your phone. A typical measurement of this device would be 101.2mm by 85.0mm by 65.5mm with a weight of 357 grams.

#8. Best ART Tube MPC Microphone Preamp

Type: Tube-based preamplifier with optical compressor circuitry

Inputs: XLR balanced inputs and outputs

Features: Tube based mic/line preamplifier with up to 80 dB of gain

View Full Specs: ART Tube MPC Microphone Preamp

A tube pre-amplifier and compressor can be used for a range of audio engineering and recording tasks, and the unit is also a multi-purpose audio engineering and recording tool. The unit comes with a tube preamplifier and compressor mix feature. A hand-selected 12AX7a tube is used in this tube-based mic/line preamplifier, which provides up to 80 dB of gain, which can be achieved with the best tube available. Using a twelve volt regulated DC voltage, the second stage of the preamplifier’s 12AX7a tube offers an additional gain of 20 decibels as well.

This device utilizes optical (VCA-less) compressor circuitry, which enables the user to control dynamics in a transparent manner. A 1/4-inch unbalanced input and output are provided as well as balanced XLR inputs and outputs. You can use this product for a wide range of applications. This tube MP/C can be used at both line level and DI applications due to its high impedance input of 14.5 inches that prevents any connected device from being loaded. With transformer isolated XLR outputs and selectable output ranges, it is ideal for line or instrument interfaces.

According to the specifications of the preamp, it measures -128dBu A-weighted and has a frequency response of 30Hz to 60kHz, with a balanced 1dB response for the output that is not connected to a transformer, corresponding to a frequency response down to 20Hz at the non-transformer jack output point. In addition to the phase reversal switch as well as LED meters for tube temperature, gain reduction, and output level, the unit also provides a thermometer. As well as all this, you also have the option to select the release time settings, and for condenser microphones the device also provides 48 V of phantom power so that you can use it. This product boasts a sturdy construction and a durable finish due to its custom extrusion aluminum chassis.

#9. Best Behringer MIC100 Microphone Preamp

Type: Vacuum tube preamplifier with limiter

Inputs: Standard condenser microphone inputs

Features: 12AX7 vacuum tube with UTC technology

View Full Specs: Behringer MIC100 Microphone Preamp

This audiophile vacuum tube preamplifier by BEHRINGER Germany is equipped with a limiter and has been designed and conceived exclusively for Behringer. As it has been designed specifically to match the setup of all studio, live and hard disk recording setups, this device is able to provide high-end preamplifiers for microphones, instruments, and line-level sources. You are able to use this device for both studio and live applications with the balanced 1/4″ TRS inputs and outputs and gold-plated XLR outputs.

Hand-picked 12AX7 vacuum tubes with UTC technology are used to create a powerful and very quiet amplifier. An old-fashioned tube vibe permeates the sound performance. When it comes to high-end DI boxes, it ensures that the signal will have a very high level of transparency. The output signal cannot be distorted as a result of its high quality output limiter. A phase reverse switch and a 20dB pad provide the flexibility you need to be able to use this unit with condenser microphones that require 48 V phantom power.

The LED level meters provide you with accurate monitoring of the volume levels of your signal thanks to their eight-segment display. A beautiful vintage-style design is present inside this unit, and there are vintage-style knobs on the front of the unit that are used to control the gain as well as the output. A sturdy build quality and durable construction are both ensured by the high-quality components and rugged construction of this product.

#10. Best Tascam US-4X4 Microphone Preamp

Type: Two channel audio mixer with phantom power

Inputs: 2x balanced XLR, 2 x 3.5mm (TRS), 2 x 6.3mm

Features: Gain control knobs, line/mic/phantom switch

View Full Specs: Tascam US-4X4 Microphone Preamp

A USB Audio/MIDI interface from Tascoscam is a design that offers microphone preamps and compatibility with iOS devices. Two headphone outputs each have 45mW/ch output power and are available with either XLR or TRS (MIC/LINE) inputs. Condenser microphones need +48V phantom power, which is provided by the mic input via a professional XLR connector.  Input lines from professional synthesizers and processors can be balanced through an additional TRS jack.

Direct recordings of electric guitar and bass can be made using the first two inputs switched to high-impedance. Four TASCAM Ultra-HDDA mic/line preamplifiers provide up to 57dB of gain with very low noise and distortion specs. (One XLR input or one 1/4′′ input can be used at a time.) This system provides a rich sound quality by taking advantage of high-performance media components such as the NE5532 op amps that do not color the audio. There is a simple ASIO driver for Windows, which brings the support for Mac OSX and iOS devices such as the iPad, as well as a class-compliant driver for plug-and-play operation on Mac OSX and iOS devices.

For connecting synthesizers, drum machines, and controllers to the system, MIDI inputs and outputs are also included. A dedicated AC adapter comes included with the interface, which provides the possibility of choosing both Cakewalk SONAR X3 LE and Ableton Live Lite DAW applications. It consists of a heavy-duty metal mechanism throughout, which keeps it solid on your desk even when you move mics around as you use it. Angled desktop design makes viewing and operating comfortable for tabletop use.

Time To Buy One Of The Best Microphone Preamps For Home Recording

 

Now that we’ve established what we need to do, let’s move on to the next part. If you care about producing high quality recordings, then you have to have this piece of equipment in your studio. Since many microphones have a very low output level, and they often can’t be used as microphones because of how quiet they are, there are people who view preamps as merely a method to increase microphone volume.

There are many items in today’s world that have a mic input, such as audio interfaces, that have a preamp built right into them. It is possible that you might want to consider upgrading to a dedicated, outboard preamp if you want to achieve better, more professional results.

Preamps for outboard disc players come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, but what makes them stand out is the wide range of sounds they provide.

While the preamp will certainly enhance the volume of what is running through it it will also add its own taste to the sound that is being produced at the same time. The sound they produce differs from that of an instrument or amplifier just as they do from each other.

What Is The Sound You Want?

 

There are many types of preamp on the market. From simple preamps to those that bring us back to the days when tube amps ruled the world. What really matters is what kind of sound you want to achieve.

You have a lot of options available to you, so decide what you are willing to spend, maybe even a little more. See what works for you first and then decide what you want to do.

The best microphone preamp for home recording is certain to be found on this list, so be sure to check it out. It’s simply a matter of figuring out what would be the best option based on your personal needs and preferences.

What Would We Choose?

 

There is no doubt that the preamp plays a crucial role in our system. Our engineers have changed preamps in studios in the past so we can choose sound options, and the difference was incredible. The engineer changed the preamp just so we could have different sound options.

This is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can have. The decision has therefore been made to ‘push the boat out’ in order to get the ball rolling.

We are faced with a difficult decision. Putnam preamps are available for purchase, and they are so tempting. It is hard to beat the value for money provided by the Behringer and ART. Avalon and Grace Designs, both of which produce outstanding sound, deserve special mention. It was ultimately up to us, but we decided to go with what we think are the best microphone preamps for recording at home, which iis SSL,an industry legend whose mixing desks have been used to record and mix hits over any other – I want you to know more about it.