Alright, today we discuss Preamps(preamplifier). It converts a weak electrical signal into an output signal strong enough to be noise-tolerant and strong enough for further processing OR as we audio guys say, it converts mic level signal to line level. This happens if the input given is Mic level. The preamp is a device which comes first in the signal flow.
Any preamp will have an XLR and a TRS input. Mostly, XLR is for mic level and TRS is for line level. Other parameters, that you may find on every preamp are:
Mic/Line:
This switch tells the preamp whether the signal coming in is mic level or line level.Gain:
To adjust the level of incoming signal we use this knob.
3.Polarity:
Represented by the Greek letter Phi(ϕ), this switch enables us to switch the polarity of the input signal. This is done to get rid of phasing.
4.Phantom power(+48V):
If the device connected(e.g.: condenser mic) requires phantom power to run, this switch must be turned on.
5.PAD(pre-attenuation device):
In case, the incoming signal is too hot i.e. too loud, we use PAD which cuts down the signal by few dBs. Attenuation provided by the preamp depends upon the manufacturer.
Let's take a look at some preamps.
Universal Audio Solo 610:
this preamp, as most of them nowadays, has a lowcut filter.
API 3124:
api 3124 has 4preamps, which means 4 channels can be recorded at a time.
Focusrite Clarett Octopre mkII:
8 channels can be recorded simultaneously using this preamp.
That's something about preamps. Comment your views, have discussions, share knowledge and upvote this post if you like it. Also, don't forget check out my other blogs too.
Thank you.