From Phoenix Audio
A Versatile, Modern Class-A Mic Preamp The Phoenix Ascent Mic
Preamp take a modern approach to Class-A circuit design that delivers
a wide range of tones without sacrificing the beloved vibe of true Class-
A design. The unique Ascent circuit can go from ultra-clean sounds
suitable for audiophile recordings all the way to the warm, saturated
tones reminiscent of the UK’s most heralded vintage designs. Versatility
and superior sound have made the Ascent Pre-amp top-tier choice for
engineers around the world and a modern day classic.
Hi-Fi Transformerless Mic Input Stage Our exclusive electronically-
balanced, transformerless mic input circuit delivers fast transients and
the full frequency spectrum (from sub-bass to the highest air band),
while still delivering the full, warm and smooth characteristics that make
engineers love Class-A mic preamps. Boldly outperforming transformer-
based designs in both the frequency response and slew rate, the DRS
delivers articulate, punchy and full-bodied input signals, allowing you to
drive the output stage for a vast range of pure Class-A tones—from bold
clarity to vintage warmth, and everything in-between. With a very high
mic impedance of 10K, it is the perfect companion for ribbon mics and
dynamics mic that often need specialist mic pre amps, the Shure SM7B
particularly shines.
Legendary Transformer-Balanced Output Stage Our custom-wound
DB694 output transformer is coupled to Phoenix’s proprietary, fully
discrete DSOP-2 output amplifier. The DSOP-2 is a direct descendent of
the venerable TF1 amp which Phoenix’s Audio designers : Shaun
Leveque & David Rees, developed originally as an upgrade for vintage
Neve modules. Going beyond the TF1, the DSOP2 is the pinnacle of
Class-A output circuit design, offering up a smooth transition from ultra-
clean to beautifully saturated tones.
Easy and Intuitive In The Studio Because you’re working with a clean,
robust, electronically-balanced input signal, the Ascent Mic Preamp
makes dialing in your exact sound easy, intuitive and quick. By working
the familiar stepped input gain control (up to 70db alone) and the -15dB
pad against the variable output fader (which provides an additional
10dB of gain), you can dial in your preferred tones without having to
consider an overly complex gain architecture. It’s all about driving the
versatile DSOP-2 output stage to your exacting tastes, whatever they
may be in any given moment. Like so many other engineers, you’ll find
yourself reaching for the Ascent Mic Preamp/DI over and over again to
reliably deliver a vast array of outstanding sounds for any instrument or
voice you’re recording.
Vari-Filter Control
Powerful variable high pass filter from 45hz to 250hz allowing you the
ability to control and shape tones of all types
Vocal shaping Equalizer
Uniquely designed vocal shaping Equalizer effects designed to benefit
the vocalist with powerful equalizer controls including our classic Sheen
control perfected or vocal recording with huge gain range control that
always sounds musical and never harsh.
Features of Ascent 500 Mic Preamp
• Phoenix Audio’s unique Class A, transformerless, true-balanced mic
input stage
• Phoenix Audio’s transformer-balanced DSOP-2 Class-A discrete
output stage with custom wound DB694 output transformer
-15dB input pad
• LED Gain Metering
• Push buttons: Hi-Pass, 48v, Phase Reverse, Switchable 48V phantom
power on push-button switch
• Vocal shaping EQ, 16db of +/- gain control on selectable frequency
switch : 10K, 15K & Sheen (25K)
• Variable High Pass Filter on Push-button Switch (Roll-off -6dB per
octave @ 45 to 250Hz)
• Phase Reverse on Push-Button Switch
• Mic Pre Gain Range: -30 to -70 in 5dB steps With 10dB more
available on the output fader.
• Output = +26dBu @ 1kHz, Noise = -90dB @ 20Hz to 20kHz.
• Frequency Response Mic Input Stage: -0.4dB @ 40Hz, -0.3dB @
25kHz
• Frequency response Class A (DSOP-2) output stage: 20Hz to 20kHz
+- 0.5dB, Maximum
• 24v built PSU so you can feel the sound of the ‘true’ unit and not be
limited by the limitions of running at 16v which is the standard
Lunchbox voltage.
Free 3-Year Warranty
Sound Pure stands behind our products. Free three-year warranty on this item. Coverage exclusions live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.
Level of support and expertise that simply isn't available at big-box megastores. Read the warranty →
Returns
This item is not eligible for the Try-Before-You-Buy 48-hour audition. Standard return policy applies — see Terms & Conditions, Section 18 for details.
Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC
Come hear it in our control rooms.
Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.