WesAudio PHOEBE

500 series class A microphone preamplifier

• Fully analog microphone, line and instrument preamplifier
• Class A design inspired by the famous British dual-amp topology
• Microphone gain up to 75 dB ideal for low-level microphones
• Carnhill transformers on input and output
• Analog headroom up to +28 dBu
• Full control and digital recall via DAW plug-ins
• Selectable microphone impedance 300 / 1200 Ohms
• Passive output PAD up to 15 dB with 1 dB steps
• Combined front mic / line / Hi-Z input for instruments
• Compatible with chassis 500 series and ng500 (e.g., WesAudio _TITAN)

The WesAudio _PHOEBE is a 500 series format mic preamp designed to combine the sonic character of classic British analog preamps with the flexibility of modern digital workflow. With an all-analog Class A audio path and digital control with recall via plug-in, PHOEBE offers the warmth and musicality of vintage circuits with the practicality of contemporary productions.

The design based on a dual-amp topology with Carnhill transformers ensures a rich, three-dimensional sound perfectly suited for professional recordings of vocals, acoustic and electric instruments.

Class A preamplifier with headroom up to +28 dBu

The WesAudio _PHOEBE offers analog headroom up to +28 dBu, allowing high-level signals to be easily handled without unwanted saturation. The all-analog circuit ensures an extremely transparent and dynamic response, preserving all the nuances of the sound source.

Carnhill transformers for classic analog sound

The audio path includes Carnhill transformers on the input and output, components highly valued in the professional audio world for their contribution to the musicality of the signal. These transformers add depth, natural harmonics and analog character to recordings.

Microphone gain up to 75 dB

With a maximum gain of 75 dB, the preamplifier is also perfect for microphones with very low output, such as ribbon or dynamic microphones used in professional recordings.

Multiple inputs for microphone, line and instruments

The front panel integrates a combination connector that supports:

• Microphone (XLR)
• Line (XLR)
• Hi-Z instruments (TS jack)

This allows the preamplifier to be used in different recording contexts without the need for external patching.

Selectable microphone impedance

Input impedance can be selected between 300 Ohms and 1200 Ohms, allowing the preamplifier's behavior to be adapted to different types of microphones, including vintage models that require specific impedances to best express their sonic character.

Passive output PAD for level control.

Built-in passive attenuation circuit allows the output level to be reduced by up to 15 dB in 1-dB steps. Placed after the output transformer, this PAD allows precise signal level management without altering the sonic character of the preamplifier.

Digital Recall and DAW Integration

The WesAudio _PHOEBE integrates a digital control system that allows complete parameter management via DAW plug-ins. All settings can be saved and recalled automatically thanks to the Total Recall function.

This allows you to work with analog hardware while maintaining the convenience of modern digital projects.

Analog automation and remote control

With the ng500 system and USB connection or via compatible chassis such as WesAudio _TITAN, you can control and automate the preamp directly from your DAW, greatly enhancing your studio workflow.

Technical Specifications.

• Type: class A microphone preamplifier
• Format: 500 series module
• Maximum headroom: +28 dBu
• Microphone gain: up to 75 dB
• Microphone impedance: 300 / 1200 Ohm
• Line impedance: 5.5 kOhm
• EIN: better than -120 dB
• Distortion: 0.005% @ 1 kHz (+20 dBu)
• Frequency response: ±0.5 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
• Noise: better than -100 dBu (unity gain)
• Power consumption: 170 mA (+16V) / 100 mA (-16V)
• Dimensions: 38 × 133 × 145 mm
• Weight: 1 kg
• Warranty: 2 years