Description

The Wolff Audio RefPre 500 Series microphone and instrument preamp delivers clean, transparent sound with minimal circuitry. This reference preamp keeps your audio true to the source, using a transformerless design and relay-based switching for reliability. With a stepped rotary switch, users can adjust gain from -10dB–60dB in 10dB steps, supporting everything from high-output condensers to delicate ribbon microphones. Ribbon mode automatically increases gain to 70dB and protects the mic from phantom power. The unit’s frequency response holds steady from 10Hz–80kHz, and the +28dBu output headroom covers everything from heavy drums to soft vocals. Front and rear panel inputs plus a dedicated Hi-Z amp for instruments add studio flexibility.

Wolff Audio Build Delivers Uncolored, Accurate Recording

Engineers who track with sampling or emulation microphones, like the Slate VMS, benefit from this preamp’s transparent sound. Its low noise floor and high headroom suit detailed work with mics such as the Neumann TLM 103 or Earthworks TC25. The continuous output fader, trim control and high-pass filter offer precise control for any signal. Switching polarity and phantom power keeps the workflow safe for delicate ribbon styles. Every session gains repeatable accuracy, helping users capture the real detail of their instruments and vocals without added color.

Wolff Audio RefPre 500 Series Microphone & Instrument Preamp
Wolff Audio RefPre 500 Series Microphone & Instrument Preamp
Wolff Audio RefPre 500 Series Microphone & Instrument Preamp

Features

  • Transparent design preserves pure sound with minimal circuitry and signal paths
  • 60dB of gain handles dynamic and condenser mics with ease
  • Ribbon mic mode adds 10dB gain and protects against phantom power
  • +/-6dB trim control provides precise fine-tuning for ideal levels
  • High-pass filter removes rumble and low-frequency noise below 80Hz
  • Front panel Hi-Z input optimized for direct recording of instruments
  • -125dBu EIN ensures low noise, even at maximum gain levels
  • Signal LED monitors input levels, flashing red 10dB below clipping

Specs

General
  • Product type: 500 Series microphone and instrument preamp
  • Series: RefPre 500
  • Design: Transformerless
  • Gain range: -10dB–60dB (stepped in 10dB increments)
  • Additional gain: +10dB (Ribbon mic circuit)
  • Trim control: ±6dB
  • High-pass filter: Switchable 12dB/octave at 80Hz
  • Frequency response: ±0.5dB from 10Hz–80kHz
  • Noise floor: -125dBu EIN
  • Distortion: 0.0005% at 60dB of gain
Mic Preamp
  • Mic preamp type: SuperAnalogue and VHD
  • Gain: Up to 70dB (Ribbon mic mode)
  • Impedance options: 1.3 kohm and 11 kohm
  • Phantom power: Yes (+48V, with safety lockout for ribbon mics)
  • Polarity invert: Yes
  • Pad: Yes
  • Ribbon mic mode: Adjusts impedance and adds +10dB gain
  • Harmonic control: 2nd order (warmth) and 3rd order (edge)
  • Input Flip: Yes (routes line input through mic pre)
Inputs and Outputs
  • Mic input: Front and back panel XLR
  • Instrument input: Front panel Hi-Z input
  • Mic/INST switch: Yes (source selector for XLR/INST input)
  • Output trim: Continuous adjustment from -∞ to full output
  • Insert point: Yes, for external devices
  • External sidechain input: Yes
  • Signal indicator: LED glows green on signal, flashes red at +18dBu
Dynamics and EQ
  • High-pass filter: 12dB/octave, switchable at 80Hz
  • Gain adjustment: Stepped rotary switch for repeatable settings
  • Sidechain routing: Yes (filters can be routed to sidechain)

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