AEA TRP500

500 Series Microphone Preamplifier with Phantom Power, Polarity Reversal, and High-Pass Filter

• Professional single-channel microphone preamp in the 500 Series format
• Up to 85 dB of clean, low-noise gain with DC-coupled JFET circuitry
• Ultra-high input impedance of 100 kΩ, ideal for ribbon microphones
• Compatible with ribbon, dynamic, and condenser microphones
• Selectable high-pass filter at 115 Hz or 230 Hz
• +48V phantom power and polarity reversal
• Minimal signal path for maximum sonic transparency
• Designed and handcrafted in Pasadena, California

The AEA TRP500 is the third-generation 500 Series microphone preamp developed by AEA to deliver peak performance with any microphone, particularly ribbon models. Based on the renowned circuitry of the original TRP preamp, it combines an extremely high input impedance, exceptionally low noise, and a minimal signal path to preserve every detail of the recording.

With its neutral yet rich and musical tone, the TRP500 is the ideal solution for recording studios, sound engineers, and musicians who want a transparent preamp capable of bringing out the character of any microphone without introducing unwanted coloration.

High-Gain 500 Series Preamplifier for Ribbon Microphones

The ultra-high input impedance of 100,000 ohms allows passive ribbon microphones to operate under optimal conditions, keeping the frequency response, dynamics, and natural tonal character intact.

With up to 85 dB of gain achieved through ultra-low-noise DC-coupled JFET circuitry, the TRP500 can amplify even the weakest signals without compromising the signal-to-noise ratio.

Uncompromising sonic transparency and musicality

Unlike many so-called “clean” preamps, the AEA TRP500 maintains an extremely linear response enriched by a natural musicality that enhances any sound source. The minimal signal path minimizes the components between the microphone and the recording, delivering an open, detailed sound that remains faithful to the original performance.

High-pass filter and essential controls

The selectable passive high-pass filter at 115 Hz or 230 Hz effectively eliminates low-frequency noise, vibrations, and unwanted resonances directly during recording.

The TRP500 also features +48V phantom power and polarity reversal, ensuring full compatibility with condenser, dynamic, and active ribbon microphones.

AEA Build Quality

Like all AEA products, the TRP500 is handcrafted in Pasadena, California, using high-quality, locally sourced components. The company’s attention to detail and extensive experience in designing microphones and preamps ensure long-term reliability and professional performance.

The Ideal Preamplifier for the 500 Series Format

Compact, powerful, and incredibly quiet, the AEA TRP500 brings all the sound quality of the TRP series into a 500 Series module, offering a professional solution for those who want a very high-gain preamp capable of bringing out the best in any type of microphone.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Professional microphone preamp
• Format: 500 Series
• Channels: 1
• Maximum gain: 85 dB
• Circuitry: DC-coupled JFET
• Input impedance: 100 kΩ
• Compatibility: ribbon, dynamic, and condenser microphones
• Selectable high-pass filter
• HPF frequencies: 115 Hz or 230 Hz
• Phantom power: +48V
• Polarity reversal
• Minimal signal path
• Manufactured: Handcrafted in Pasadena, California, USA