MAAG AUDIO PREQ2 DUAL MIC PREAMP WITH EQ

Mäag Audio proudly presents the PREQ2™ Dual Mic Preamp with EQ, a fully integrated analog system designed for both recording and mixing, ingeniously packed into a 1U standalone unit. Featuring Cliff Mäag’s renowned Air Band® shelving equalizer, first introduced in 1993 with the NTI EQ3 equalizer, the PREQ2™ sets a new standard in versatility and sonic excellence.

Versatile Signal Handling

The PREQ2™ accommodates both line and microphone signal levels, offering two matched channels with separate rear-panel line level inputs and microphone XLR connectors. Equipped with switchable +48-volt phantom powering, the rear panel includes XLR output connectors for each channel and an on/off/fuse mains switch. Each switch on the PREQ2™ is fitted with vibrant LEDs to confirm their operational status, and all controls are equipped with detents—excluding the continuously variable microphone gain.

Microphone Input Prowess

The microphone preamp within the Mäag Audio PREQ2™ delivers up to 71 dB of gain, divided between a discrete Class-A transistor preamp and a substantial nickel-core Mäag Audio-built input transformer (one for each channel). This circuitry delivers a clean, detailed sound with a remarkable +27 dBu of headroom and an EIN noise level of -128 dB. Front panel options allow selection between two optimized gain ranges: +20 dB to +42 dB as the default range, and a high-gain mode extending from +42 dB to +71 dB via the 25 dB gain switch. The maximum input level is +8 dB.

Microphone and Line Inputs

The microphone input section presents front panel switches, LED indicators, and buttons for +48-volt phantom powering, a -20 dB attenuation pad, signal presence (+26 dBu peak LEDs), and phase/polarity reversal. The microphone gain is continuously adjustable via a single, prominent MIC GAIN control knob. The front panel line switch toggles the rear panel XLR line input connectors in place of the microphone preamp’s output. Both channels can be toggled separately, permitting simultaneous use of a microphone and a line level source, providing diverse recording possibilities.

Equalization Mastery

The PREQ2™ boasts three equalizer/filter sections, each mirroring the layout and control setup for both channels. The equalizer design is meticulously crafted to facilitate recording and subtle tonality adjustments, enhancing audio with euphonic qualities. The layout incorporates a 2nd order, 12 dB/octave high-pass filter with fully variable control, a low-frequency bell-shaped equalizer section with a boost control, and the revered Mäag Audio Air Band® shelving section.

Premium Sound, Ultimate Flexibility

Embracing a discrete Class-A transformer-coupled preamp with reamplification capabilities, the PREQ2™ marries world-renowned Air Band® technology with meticulous low-frequency EQ control. Whether for recording, tonality enhancement, or nuanced adjustments, the PREQ2™ delivers a versatile and sonically gratifying solution.

Technical Specifications

• Noise level at lowest gain setting: -100 dB (EIN: -128 dB)
• Balanced XLR output headroom: +27 dBu
• Microphone transformer feeds discrete front-end Class-A discrete transistors paired with a FET input operational amplifier
• High and low gain push-button switch: Low range: +20 dB to +42 dB, High range (gain +25 switch with green LED): +42 dB to +71 dB
• Switchable -20 dB pad with green LED
• +48-volt phantom power, switchable, with red LED
• Phase reversal switch: Switches the phase of the balanced output
• Green signal present LED, red peak LED lights at +26 dBu