Ideal as a recording solution for home or pro studio engineers, the 80B Microphone Preamp from Trident Audio is a modern, 500-series recreation of the classic Trident 80B console preamp that helped define the studio sound of the early '80s. With smooth gain adjustment, particularly at high signal levels, extremely fast transient response, absolutely minimal noise, and a stunningly wide headroom for crystal-clear, distortion free audio, the 80B is an ideal choice for use with high-end condensers.
Not only does the 80B excel with microphones, it's also a great option for instruments as well, with a front-panel Hi-Z input and separate mic and line level controls. Lundahl transformer-coupled, electronically balanced inputs and a large, high-quality output transformer provides you with plenty of bandwidth and signal integrity. And with hands-on controls like 48V phantom power, variable low- and high-pass filters, and switchable phase control, you have the tools you need to properly sculpt your incoming signals. Plus, the bright 8-segment LED meter lets you easily keep an eye on your output levels at all times.
These consoles have been used to record just about every major artist in the past three decades, including Elton John, Dire Straits, David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Stevie Wonder to name a few. More recently they have been used to record artists such as Radiohead and Pavarotti.
With a frequency response that extends to above 40 kHz, the 80B 500-Series Preamp is perfect for use with high-quality condenser microphones. But it also brings out the best in dynamic and ribbon microphones, thanks to its high gain and low noise. This is particularly useful when working with ribbon microphones, which often have an inherently low output level.