The Dizengoff Audio DA2 is a single-channel preamp that aims to recreate the classic American tube pres prevalent in the film, broadcast, and recording throughout the 1950s. Using a compliment of 6SJ7 pentode tubes, the DA2 provides high headroom, and the tone of the preamp can be described as smooth and warm, while packing a pleasant low-midrange emphasis. One imagines this type of preamp would be suitable for a straight-ahead jazz vocalist, among other instruments and implementations.
The DA2 offers a range of 0 to +52 dB by means of its continuously-variable rotary knob. The signal path transformers, wound in Chicago, take advantage of modern materials to achieve a fidelity commiserate with today’s standards, delivering a flat frequency response from 10 Hz to 50 kHz all the while.
For exceedingly loud signals, a 20 dB pad is provided, while condenser microphones plugged into the XLR input can be supplied with 48V phantom power through an onboard switch. You can also flip signal polarity with a 180° toggle. In addition to the XLR input, you’ll have access to a 1/4” DI input for guitars, basses, and the like. The vintage-style VU meter provides an overall picture of your output levels.
Instead of a wall-wart, the D4 utilizes an internal power supply built around a Japanese Nippo Steel R-core power transformer, giving you efficiency and low-noise in the same package. The preamp takes up 2 RU of rack space.