Trident
Trident 80B-PRE 500 Series Microphone Preamp
Best classic sound for professional studio recording.
Experience the legendary sound of classic consoles in a modern 500 Series format. This preamp faithfully recreates the sought-after sonic character of an iconic British mixing desk. It features transformer-coupled circuitry for rich tone and a wide frequency response that captures every nuance. Versatile controls, including variable high and low pass filters, offer precise sound shaping. The front-facing Hi-Z input provides flexibility for various instruments, making it an indispensable tool for professional recording environments seeking that distinctive vintage warmth and clarity.
$649.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
272
/ 606
#272 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-56%
Below average
Tube or Solid State
Solid State
/ Solid State
Who it's for
- Audio engineers seeking vintage console sound for their recordings.
- Studio owners and engineers with existing 500 series setups.
- Professional studios and engineers prioritizing long-term equipment reliability.
Who should skip it
- New users without an existing 500 series rack infrastructure.
- Engineers prioritizing absolute sonic transparency and minimal coloration.
- Budget-conscious home studio owners or those needing multiple channels.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Character
Delivers the iconic, punchy warmth of the classic 80B console.
Transient Response
Captures fast, articulate transients with impressive clarity and precision.
Signal Versatility
Handles everything from ribbon mics to line-level sources with ease.
Noise Floor
Near-theoretical minimum noise ensures pristine recordings even at high gain.
Tone Shaping
Variable filters provide essential control for sculpting your source signal.
Build Integrity
Premium Lundahl transformers offer professional-grade reliability in a compact frame.
Key Specs
Tube or Solid State
Solid State
Channels
Single-Channel
Module Type
500 Series
Direct Input
Yes
Input Connectors
XLR, TRS
Phantom Power
48-volt switchable
High Pass Filter
Variable
Low Pass Filter
Variable
Know before you buy
Yes, this is a 500 Series module that requires a compatible 500 Series rack or console slot to function. It occupies a single slot.
Absolutely. The 80B-PRE features a wide frequency response and high-quality Lundahl transformers, making it well-suited for the delicate signal requirements of ribbon microphones, as well as dynamic and condenser mics.
The preamp is designed to handle a broad range of signal levels, from -60 dBu to +15 dBu, internally. This allows you to achieve smooth gain adjustments for both quiet sources and loud line-level signals without needing an external pad.
The front-facing 1/4-inch Hi-Z input allows you to plug instruments like electric guitars, basses, or synthesizers directly into the preamp. This bypasses the need for a separate DI box while still running your instrument signal through the 80B's circuitry.
Both the high pass and low pass filters are fully variable. This gives you precise control over shaping your frequency response at the source, allowing you to clean up mud or tame harsh high-end frequencies before your signal hits your interface.
Yes, it includes switchable 48-volt phantom power, which can be toggled on or off depending on the microphone you are using.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.