Fredenstein Artistic MicPre SE
Best transparent amplification for discerning audio creators.
This 500-series microphone preamplifier is engineered for exceptional clarity and sonic flexibility. It provides an extensive gain range, perfect for capturing a wide variety of audio sources with precision. Featuring a high-impedance DI input for instruments, it ensures a clean signal path for guitars and basses. Essential tools like phase inversion, a low-cut filter, and switchable 48V phantom power are included, offering comprehensive control over your sound. Its discrete operational amplifier design and LED metering contribute to a professional recording experience.
$99.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
58
/ 606
#58 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-93%
Below average
Form Factor
500
/ Module
Who it's for
- Recording engineers and musicians seeking high-quality, transparent microphone amplification.
- Audio professionals needing flexible input conditioning for diverse recording scenarios.
- Studio owners and producers building a high-quality, modular recording setup.
Who should skip it
- Newcomers to professional audio without an existing 500 series chassis.
- Engineers who prefer immediate visual feedback directly on their hardware.
- Producers specifically seeking highly colored or aggressively characterful preamplifiers.
Performance breakdown
Gain Versatility
Wide gain range handles everything from ribbon mics to quiet condensers.
DI Performance
High-impedance input preserves the natural character of electric guitars and basses.
Signal Integrity
Discrete operational amplifier design delivers a clean, professional-grade signal path.
Workflow Control
Essential switches provide quick, tactile adjustments during critical recording sessions.
Monitoring Accuracy
Integrated LED metering offers reliable visual feedback for managing output levels.
Form Factor Efficiency
Compact 500-series design maximizes rack space without sacrificing core functionality.
Key Specs
Form Factor
500 Module
Gain Range
+20 dB to +65 dB
Input Pad
-20 dB
Low Cut Filter
120 Hz
Phantom Power
48 V Switchable
DI Input Impedance
2 MOhm
Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz +/- 1 dB
Metering
LED Output Level Indicator, LED Peak Meter
Know before you buy
Yes, this is a 500-series module, so it must be installed into a compatible 500-series rack or lunchbox that provides the necessary power.
Absolutely. The unit features a -20 dB pad, which helps prevent clipping when recording loud sources or using microphones with very high output levels.
The front-panel DI input features a high 2 MOhm impedance, which is ideal for preserving the high-frequency detail and natural tone of passive guitar and bass pickups.
Yes, the low-cut filter is fixed at 120 Hz. It is a useful tool for cleaning up low-end rumble or proximity effect during vocal or acoustic instrument tracking.
The front panel includes LED indicators for output level and a dedicated peak meter, allowing you to monitor your gain staging and avoid digital distortion at a glance.
Still have a question?
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