Phoenix Audio DRS-8 Mk2

8-channel Class A microphone preamplifier

• 8-channel Class A microphone preamplifier
• Transformerless, electronically balanced input stage
• DSOP-2 discrete output stage with DB694 transformer
• Gain range from -30 to -70 dB, with an additional 10 dB via fader
• High-pass filter, phase inversion and phantom power on dedicated buttons
• Rugged construction with PTFE silver military cable wiring
• LED gain meter for each channel

Versatility and Class-A sound quality

The Phoenix Audio DRS-8 Mk2 is an 8-channel professional microphone/DI preamplifier designed to deliver maximum sound quality and exceptional versatility in the studio. Based on an innovative transformerless Class A design on the input stage, this preamplifier allows for a full range of tones, from crystal clear clarity to warm, musical saturation typical of the finest vintage British circuits.

Transformerless balanced microphone input stage

The DRS-8 Mk2's unique input stage is electronically balanced and transformerless, offering exceptionally extended frequency response and fast, natural transient behavior. With an impedance of 10K, it is also ideal for ribbon and dynamic microphones such as the Shure SM7B, providing detailed, warm and accurate sound.

Balanced output with DSOP-2 transformer: power and musicality

The heart of the output stage is the DSOP-2 module, a discrete Class A circuit combined with custom-wound DB694 transformers. Designed by David Rees as an evolution of the legendary TF1 for vintage Neve modules, this stage allows the sound to be precisely sculpted from clean tones to saturations full of character.

High impedance DI circuit: perfect for modern and vintage instruments

Each channel includes a FET-free, 10MΩ input impedance DI circuit that preserves the natural sound of guitars, basses, synthesizers and drum machines intact. This enables faithful and dynamic sound delivery, with all the brilliance and body that instruments deserve.

Intuitive controls and practical design for every session

With jerky gain controls, -15dB pads, variable output faders, and key functions such as high-pass filter, phantom power, and phase inversion on dedicated buttons, the DRS-8 Mk2 offers a simple and effective workflow. It is designed to be a flexible and reliable tool in any recording environment.

Technical Specifications.

• Format: 2U rack - 8 channels
• Balanced transformerless Class A microphone input stage
• Microphone impedance: 10K
• Gain range: -30 to -70 dB in 5 dB steps, with +10 dB on output fader
• Input pad: -15 dB
• Gain meter: 5-segment LED per channel
• High-pass filter: -6 dB/octave at 80 Hz on push-button switch
• Phase inversion: on push-button switch
• Phantom power: 48V switchable on push-button switch
• Mute: on push-button switch
• Output control: in steps, 21 positions
• Maximum output: +26 dBu at 1 kHz
• Noise: -90 dB (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
• Input frequency response: -0.4 dB at 40 Hz, -0.3 dB at 25 kHz
• DSOP-2 output frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz ±0.5 dB
• Connections: Neutrik XLR/TRS combo inputs, XLR and D-sub 25 outputs.
• Power supply: 240V/110V switch
• Internal wiring: PTFE silver military cable