TRP500

The first product in our 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 (66,000 Ohms)
Switchable 115 Hz or 230 Hz high-pass filter
Switchable phantom power and polarity reverse

Enhance your ribbons

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.

Handcrafted in Pasadena

Like all AEA products, the TRP500 is handcrafted in Pasadena, California from locally sourced parts. AEA is a family-owned company with a small crew of skilled technicians, many of whom are musicians themselves.

High Impedance Makes a Huge Difference

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.

Exceptional Preamps

Passive microphones, coupled with AEA’s range of ribbon-specific preamps, are the key choice for discerning recordists who want total control over their signal path.

AEA offers the RPQ2, RPQ500, TRP2 and the TRP500 microphone preamps, all of which provide unmatched clean levels of gain, and a high impedance. All AEA Ribbon Preamps all share the same topology and sound. The differences between each unit come down to extra features and form factor.