Sound Pure's Take

The DRS-1R has become one of our best selling 500 Series Preamp Modules due to it's excellent plethora of available tones and ability to sound great on just about any instrument. Grab 4 modules for punchy kick, snare, and tom recordings, or a pair for recording "in your face" rock electric guitars with a 57 and a ribbon, or just a single for a rich and exciting sounding vocal. The recording possibilities are endless with this preamp, and with it being as affordable as it is we'd go as far to say any 500 Series rack is not complete without at least one DRS-1R. 
About the Phoenix Audio Preamp:
I feel like there are so many pieces of gear out there described as a “desert island _____”, which is why I tried to stray far away from the phrase when coming up with an accurate description for the Phoenix Audio preamp. That said, there’s really no better phrase to describe it - so what the hell - IT’S THE DESERT ISLAND PREAMP!
The Phoenix Audio preamp shares some lineage with the vintage Neve 1073, but it’s far from just another clone - think of it as being more of a modern twist on that classic design. While featuring a transformerless input, the source of the Phoenix’s tone comes from its transformer balanced output stage which adds color, roundness, and additional depth when driven. After using the Phoenix on just about every studio application we could think of, there wasn’t a single case where it’s color didn’t enhance the source material in a positive way. For examples be sure to check out the 50+ videos we’ve shot using the Phoenix to get outstanding results on everything from jazzy female vocals to drums and a Rhodes keyboard to acoustic and electric guitars to country male vocals. 
Additionally because of it’s dual gain control of both the input and output stage, if your recording application doesn’t require additional coloration there’s plenty of clean gain on the input to allow your output stage (color control) to be set very low, resulting in a cleaner and more pristine image of the instrument. Of course there’s a tremendous middle-ground on it’s color spectrum, which is why it’s so flexible. One final tonal option is to drive the transformerless input to the point of distortion, producing a more heavy-handed crunchy distortion that can be perfect for an effect heavy section or instrument. Again, the tonal possibilities with this preamp are gigantic.
Phoenix has gone to great lengths to ensure that all of their preamp models provide an identical sound to one another, so regardless of if you go with the 8 Channel DRS-8, the DRS-Q4M (pre with EQ) or DRS-1 (single channel pre), 2 Channel DRS-Q4 (stereo pre with EQ), or even the 500 Series DRS-1R you’ll be getting 100% of Phoenix’s unique and exciting tone. Every model comes standard with a practical feature set all great preamps should have, including a hi-pass filter and phase reverse - the DRS-8 and DRS-1R also include "Mute" buttons. It can also accept line level signals for warming up previously recorded instrument tracks or even running a stereo bus through for added analog punch and coloration.
As mentioned, the Phoenix preamp shares lineage with the venerable Neve 1073 however it’s not a clone, so if you’re specifically after that tone we would recommend the Vintech X73i or 573. If you’re looking for an incredibly flexible solid state preamp with a rich and inspiring tone at an excellent price, look no further than the Phoenix Audio preamp line.

Watch & listen

Phoenix Audio Microphone Preamps: DRS-Q4M & DRS-1R Quick n' Dirty

Also in this recording Phoenix Audio DRS-Q4M mk2 Mono Mic Pre/DI/EQ

In this video, Sound Pure pro audio expert David Barrett discusses the many benefits of the Phoenix Audio DRS-1R & DRS-Q4M microphone preamps.

Phoenix Audio DRS-1R 500 Series Module Preamp

The DRS1r from Phoenix Audio UK is a 500 series style module mic pre based on their incredible DRS-1 and DRS-8 microphone preamplifiers. At AES 2011 we were able to talk to Robin at Phoenix about these fantastic sound... Read more

The DRS1r from Phoenix Audio UK is a 500 series style module mic pre based on their incredible DRS-1 and DRS-8 microphone preamplifiers. At AES 2011 we were able to talk to Robin at Phoenix about these fantastic sounding preamps. Not only is the sound quality superb, but you can get great sounding clean tones, or drive the output gain knob to get more saturated tones full of color. The DRS 1R works great in lunch boxes with other 500 series preamps and there are no power issues. Watch SoundPure's other demos on the DRS-8 where we got to test it on a variety of applications in a studio environment. Call for more information on the DRS-1r from Phoenix Audio UK. 919.682.5552.

LDC Vocal Mic Shootout: Neumann U87Ai, Neumann U47 FET, Bock Audio iFET & Soyuz SU-019 LDC FET

Also in this recording Neumann U87Ai Microphone Neumann U 47 FET Collectors Edition Bock Audio iFET Condenser Microphone Soyuz 017 FET Large Diaphragm Condenser Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp ADL Opus-3 Solid State Opto Compressor - Mono Bricasti Design M7 Reverb Processor

In this video we present an LDC vocal microphone shootout using the Neumann U87Ai, the Neumann U47 FET, the Bock iFET and the Soyuz SU-019. Can you tell which one's which? If you are interested in hearing the results and... Read more

In this video we present an LDC vocal microphone shootout using the Neumann U87Ai, the Neumann U47 FET, the Bock iFET and the Soyuz SU-019. Can you tell which one's which? If you are interested in hearing the results and/or getting ahold of the audio files from this shootout, give us a shout, we'd love to hear from you!

Phoenix DRS 8 Mic Preamp on Drums, Vocals, Guitar, Trumpet, & Rhodes Keyboard

Also in this recording Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp Lynx Aurora 16 I/O D/A and A/D Converter Coles 4038 Ribbon Microphone Peluso 22 251 Switchable Pattern Tube Microphone Peluso TR 14 Vacuum Tube Ribbon Microphone Lauten Audio Oceanus LT-381 Microphone Josephson C617 (just body no capsule) Peluso P12 Multipattern Tube Microphone

The DRS-8 developed by Phoenix Audio UK is an 8 channel, Neve influenced, preamp designed with Class A discrete technology with both the professional and home studio artists in mind. Modeled after Phoenix's other famo... Read more

The DRS-8 developed by Phoenix Audio UK is an 8 channel, Neve influenced, preamp designed with Class A discrete technology with both the professional and home studio artists in mind. Modeled after Phoenix's other famous preamps, the DRS-1 and DRS-2, the DRS8 uses a transformer less, Class A, discrete mic input which gives you a "valve-like" sound. The Phoenix Audio DRS-8 is extremely versatile complimenting an array of instruments including acoustic guitars, electric guitar, percussion instruments, vocals, horns, and keyboards. The cost-per-channel is also unbeatable for a preamp of this quality. Please contact our experts, here at SoundPure, with any questions 919.682.5552 or 888-528-9703.

Phoenix Audio DRS-8 Mic Pre on Acoustic Guitar Review

Also in this recording Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp Lauten Audio Torch ST-221 Stereo Pair Microphones Goodall TMhB Baritone sn5500 Acoustic Guitar Josephson C617set with Mk221 Capsule (single) McPherson 3.5XP Adirondack/Flamed Acacia #1781 Acoustic Josephson C42 Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Phoenix DRS8 Microphone Preamp from Phoenix Audio is an eight channel pre with discrete input technology, a linear class A output stage and loads of tonal variability. This Neve-influenced preamp, modeled after the P... Read more

The Phoenix DRS8 Microphone Preamp from Phoenix Audio is an eight channel pre with discrete input technology, a linear class A output stage and loads of tonal variability. This Neve-influenced preamp, modeled after the Phoenix DRS1 and DRS2, can be clean and clear or full of color and character, depending on the results you desire. The DRS-8 from Phoenix works wonderfully on many different applications such as acoustic guitar, as demonstrated in this video, electric guitar, drums, vocals, keyboards, and much more. Watch our other videos featuring this incredibly versatile preamp. For more information visit Soundpure.com or contact an experienced engineer who can help you with your pro audio needs. 919.682.5552 or Toll Free at 888.528.9703.

Phoenix DRS8 Mic Preamp Electric Guitar Demo

Also in this recording Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp Victoria Amps 20112 15W 1x12 Combo Amp Lauten Audio Horizon Tube Microphone Lynx Aurora 16 I/O D/A and A/D Converter Flickinger Spaghetti Western Reverb Fargen Olde 800 2x12 Extension Speaker Cabinet Lauten Audio Clarion FC-357 Microphone Benedetto Bambino Deluxe Carpathian Elm Burl - One-Off!!!! Archtop Guitar

The DRS-8 microphone preamp from Phoenix Audio UK is an 8 channel Neve influenced mic pre featuring Phoenix's groundbreaking audio path. Being modeled after the famous Phoenix DRS-1 and DRS-2 mic preamps, the DRS-8 utili... Read more

The DRS-8 microphone preamp from Phoenix Audio UK is an 8 channel Neve influenced mic pre featuring Phoenix's groundbreaking audio path. Being modeled after the famous Phoenix DRS-1 and DRS-2 mic preamps, the DRS-8 utilizes the linear Class A output stage, giving the unit a warm and colored quality. Combine that with the latest innovation in transformerless Class A discrete mic input technology and you've got one of the best sounding guitar preamps on the market with an incredibly affordable cost-per-channel price tag. Call the experts here at Sound Pure if you have any questions regarding the Phoenix DRS-8 mic pre or any other products from Phoenix Audio UK.

Phoenix Audio DRS-8 8-Channel Mic Preamp - AES '09

Also in this recording Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp

The highly featured Phoenix Audio DRS-8 Microphone Preamp is released at a very reasonable price-point (around $3500 USD), at the October 2009 AES Convention in New York City. This brings the identical outstanding colora... Read more

The highly featured Phoenix Audio DRS-8 Microphone Preamp is released at a very reasonable price-point (around $3500 USD), at the October 2009 AES Convention in New York City. This brings the identical outstanding coloration and quality from the original signal paths of the Phoenix DSR-2 mic preamps that are now famous, due to their modern interpretation of Neve coloration/circuitry, combining color with a more modern twist. The DRS-8 from Phoenix is at an extraordinary-cost-per-channel, making it a virtually unequaled value for those looking for high-end vintage-style coloration, and a higher quantity of channels without breaking the bank. This wonderful preamp is available or purchase through Sound Pure, who is always available to answer any questions you have about the high-end recording process. Call Sound Pure toll free 888-528-9703, or e-mail them at sales(at)soundpure.com

Mesanovic Model 2 Ribbon Mic Demo on Electric Guitar

Also in this recording Mesanovic Microphones Model 2 Royer Labs R-121 Ribbon Microphone Anderson Bobcat Hollow Natural Mocha Burst #01-13-19A Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp Mesa Boogie Fillmore 25 Head, Black w/Tinsel Grille

In this video we test out the amazing Mesanovic Model 2 ribbon microphone on electric guitar. We've had the Model 2 for a few weeks here in our studio, and we wanted to compare it to a classic mic that most of you have h... Read more

In this video we test out the amazing Mesanovic Model 2 ribbon microphone on electric guitar. We've had the Model 2 for a few weeks here in our studio, and we wanted to compare it to a classic mic that most of you have heard on tons of records: the Royer Labs R-121. Helping us on electric guitar is the one and only Eddie Berman!

Under $500 LDC Blind Mic Shootout: sE2200a II vs. WA-47 JR vs. LA-220 vs. WA-14

Also in this recording sE Electronics sE2200a II Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone Warm Audio WA-47 JR Condenser Microphone Lauten Audio LA-220 FET LDC Microphone V1 Warm Audio WA-14 Condenser Microphone Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp

In this BLIND under $500 LDC mic shooutout video, we put the sE Electronics sE2200a II, the Warm Audio WA-47 JR, the Lauten Audio LA-220 and the Warm Audio WA-14 up against each other on acoustic guitar & male vocals. Ca... Read more

In this BLIND under $500 LDC mic shooutout video, we put the sE Electronics sE2200a II, the Warm Audio WA-47 JR, the Lauten Audio LA-220 and the Warm Audio WA-14 up against each other on acoustic guitar & male vocals. Can you tell which is which? FOR THE RESULTS AND A COPY OF THE HIGH RES AUDIO FILES:(without YouTube compression), give us a call at (919) 682-5552 or email us at proaudio(at)soundpure.com. TIME CODES: Solo Acoustic Guitar Mic A: 1:30 Mic B: 1:46 Mic C: 2:02 Mic D: 2:17 Solo Vocal: Mic A: 2:33 Mic B: 2:58 Mic C: 3:24 Mic D: 3:50 Full Mix: Mic A: 4:16 Mic B: 4:42 Mic C: 5:08 Mic D: 5:34

Microphone Shootout: Vintage Neumann U-87 vs. Peluso P-87 vs. Modern Neumann U-87ai

Also in this recording Neumann U87Ai Microphone Peluso P87 Multi-Pattern Solid State Microphone Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp ADL Opus-3 Solid State Opto Compressor - Stereo Pair Bricasti Design M7 Reverb Processor CharterOak SCL1 Stereo Compressor Lynx Aurora 16 I/O D/A and A/D Converter

In this blind microphone shootout, SoundPure Pro Audio Expert, David Barrett, compares three "87" style microphones: the new Peluso P-87, the Vintage Neumann U-87, and a Modern Neumann U-87ai. The Peluso P-87 is styled a... Read more

In this blind microphone shootout, SoundPure Pro Audio Expert, David Barrett, compares three "87" style microphones: the new Peluso P-87, the Vintage Neumann U-87, and a Modern Neumann U-87ai. The Peluso P-87 is styled after the legendary classic 1970's version of Neumann's U-87 and offers just as realistic of a sound and response to the original. The U 87 presents a wide range of features and versatility that make it to one of the most desirable mics available. Well-known for its warm and well balanced characteristics it is the perfect choice as a vocal microphone for all types of music and speech. The P-87 and U-87ai are available for SoundPure's Try-Before-You-Buy Program so if you want to hear how they sound in your studio with your gear, shoot us an email at ProAudio@SoundPure.com or call us anytime at 919.682.5552. Thanks for watching!

Elysia Xpressor 500 pt. 4 - Full Mix

Also in this recording Elysia Xpressor 500-Series Stereo Compressor Miktek CV3 Large Diaphragm Multi-Pattern Matched Pair Phoenix Audio DRS8 mk2 Microphone Preamp Lynx Aurora 16 I/O D/A and A/D Converter

The Elysia Xpressor 500 is an incredibly powerful and versatile stereo compressor from Elysia Audio shrunk down to a double-wide 500 series module. Its discrete audio path running in constant class-A mode provides a supe... Read more

The Elysia Xpressor 500 is an incredibly powerful and versatile stereo compressor from Elysia Audio shrunk down to a double-wide 500 series module. Its discrete audio path running in constant class-A mode provides a superior audio quality which combines a clear and open sound with a good lot of punch. In the final video of our Elysia Xpressor series, SoundPure Recording Engineer, Allen Palmer, brings all the previously recorded tracks (Electric, Acoustic, and Vocals) and compresses them one more time for a final mix. If you like what you hear check out this gear at SoundPure.com or give us a call anytime at 919.682.5552. Thanks for watching!

From Phoenix Audio

The Phoenix Audio DRS1R/500 is a mono pre amp and DI for the API 500 series, it was designed to be identical in terms of features and sonics as the ever popular DRS1 but in a new format. The unit runs at 24v thanks due to the special power supply built into the unit so it offers no sonic sacrifices whilst still maintaining a very low current use needed for the API format and is well within its API VPR limits.

Specifications

Class A (DSOP2) Output specs. Frequency response
20Hz to 20kHz +- 0.5dB, Maximum Output = +26dBu @ 1kHz, Noise = -90dB @ 20Hz to 20kHz.
Output connections
XLR's on rear panel of API rack

Phoenix Audio's unique Class A, transformerless, True balanced Mic input stage.

Microphone input
XLR's Rear Panels of API rack
Gain Range (Mic input)
-30 to -70 in 5dB steps With 10dB more available on the output fader.
Gain reduction
-30dB push-button Mic/Line switch (Mic input)
High Input Impedance DI
Mono 1/4" Jack on front panel
Gain Meter
LED Metering. (Green = -2dbu, +4dbu & 0dBu, Yellow = +13dbu Red= +16dBu)
Phantom Power
Switchable phantom on Push-button Switch
High Pass Filter
on Push-button Switch, 120hz 6db per octave
Phase Reverse
on Push-button Switch
Mute
on Push-button Switch
Frequency Response Mic Input Stage
-0.4dB @ 40Hz, -0.3dB @ 25kHz
Frequency Response
DI Input Stage: -0.3dB @ 40Hz, - 0.5dB @ 25kHz
Typical Headroom
+24dB on Mic-Pre stage
DI Stage gain
Maximum of 20dB

Manuals & documents

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

Not eligible for Try Before You Buy or the 48-hour approval period. Standard return policy applies — see Terms & Conditions, Section 18 for details.

Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

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.