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AEA RPQ3

Dual-channel Mic Preamp

AEA - Ribbon Microphones and Preamplifiers
SKU: 68326

Dual-Channel Microphone Preamplifier

  • Professional two-channel microphone preamp in a 19" rack-mount format
  • Gain up to 85 dB with extremely low noise
  • Ultra-high input impedance of up to 68 kΩ for maximum performance from ribbon microphones
  • CurveShaper™ equalizer with independent boost and cut controls for low and high frequencies
  • Variable frequency controls for precise sound shaping
  • +48V phantom power
  • Always-on pre-EQ line output
  • Mic/Line switching and polarity reversal
  • Linear power supply with 115V/230V selection
  • Ideal for ribbon, dynamic, and condenser microphones

The AEA RPQ3 is a dual-channel microphone preamp that represents the evolution of the renowned RPQ series, designed to deliver maximum performance with ribbon, dynamic, and condenser microphones. Based on the renowned RPQ2 circuit, it combines an extremely high input impedance, up to 85 dB of gain, and an exceptionally quiet signal path, ensuring faithful and transparent reproduction even with the most delicate sources.

Thanks to a combination of ultra-low-noise, low-distortion operational amplifiers, the AEA RPQ3 offers high headroom, exceptional dynamics, and an extremely linear response, making it the ideal partner for recording, mastering, and post-production.

Ideal Preamplifier for Ribbon Microphones

With an input impedance of up to 68 kΩ (phantom power off), the RPQ3 allows ribbon microphones to fully express their sonic character, preserving the low-frequency extension, the naturalness of the midrange, and the harmonic richness of the high frequencies.

The adjustable gain range from 7 to 85 dB allows you to work with any type of sound source, from passive ribbon microphones to low-output dynamic microphones, while always maintaining extremely low background noise.

85 dB of clean gain and ultra-low noise

The AEA RPQ3 achieves a typical EIN of -130 dBu, offering benchmark performance for professional applications. Even at the highest gain levels, the signal remains clean, detailed, and free of unwanted coloration, making it ideal for orchestral recordings, acoustic instruments, vocals, and sound design.

Completely redesigned CurveShaper™ equalizer

The RPQ3 introduces a new generation of the renowned CurveShaper™ circuit, allowing both amplification and attenuation of low and high frequencies directly at the input of the audio chain.

Continuous controls allow you to precisely select the frequencies to be adjusted, maintaining an extremely natural response even during significant equalization. Dedicated LED indicators clearly show when each section of the EQ is active, simplifying your workflow during recording sessions.

Precise Control of Low and High Frequencies

The LF section allows adjustment from 22 Hz up to 515 Hz with a maximum range of ±20 dB, while the HF section allows adjustment from 2.5 kHz up to 30 kHz with the same range. A finer-tuning mode with a ±10 dB range is also available for even more precise control.

Professional connectivity and maximum operational flexibility

The AEA RPQ3 features +48V phantom power, polarity reversal, an always-active pre-EQ line output, and switching between microphone and line inputs, making it suitable for any studio setup.

The linear power supply with an internal 115V/230V selector allows the preamp to be used anywhere in the world without permanent modifications, while the rugged 19" rack-mount chassis ensures reliability even in the most demanding professional environments.

Technical Specifications

  • Type: Professional dual-channel microphone preamplifier
  • Form factor: 19" rack
  • Channels: 2
  • Gain: 7 to 85 dB
  • Gain control: 12-position selector (+7 to +65 dB)
  • Output Trim: continuous adjustment from 0 to +20 dB
  • EIN: -130 dBu (40 Ω), -128 dBu (150 Ω)
  • THD+N: 0.0018% @ 1 kHz
  • Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 160 kHz (-3 dB)
  • Input Impedance: 68 kΩ (phantom power OFF), 11.3 kΩ (phantom power ON)
  • Output impedance: 50 Ω
  • Maximum output level: +27 dBu into a 600 Ω load
  • Maximum input level: +20 dBu
  • CurveShaper™ Equalizer
  • Low-frequency boost/cut: ±20 dB (±10 dB in fine mode)
  • High-frequency boost/cut: ±20 dB (±10 dB in fine mode)
  • LF sweep: 22 Hz – 515 Hz (40–620 Hz circuit)
  • HF sweep: 2.5 kHz – 30 kHz (2.5–25 kHz circuit)
  • Global and per-band EQ bypass
  • Phantom power: +48V
  • Polarity inverter
  • Always-on pre-EQ line output
  • Mic/Line input switching
  • Linear power supply with 115V/230V selection

ADC

No

Channels

2 (Stereo)

Hardware format

Rack

1.754,68 Ex VAT

For European customers, select your country to view the correct price including VAT.

  • Available
  • Clock icon Order by 11:00 a.m., we will ship by the day 04/08/2026
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