The Hairball Audio Elements series of DIY mic preamps provides several new takes on a classic preamp topology: transformer-coupled I/O, and a single discrete op-amp for gain. Designed in conjunction with respected DIY audio product maker Eisen Audio, the preamps are 500-series compatible and come in several variations based on op-amp and transformers used.

Features:

• 4 preamp variations:
  • Gold:
    • “Clean” preamp; uses Jensen 990-derived opamp and Jensen transformers
  • Copper:
    • “British”-style; original-design Eisen Audio opamp and Ed Anderson-designed and built Carnhill reproduction transformers
  • Bronze:
    • LA-3A-inspired; original-design opamp and Cinemag/Ed Anderson LA-3A reproduction transformers
  • Silver:
    • DIY platform; multi-configuration preamp with 2520 and DIP-8 opamp footprint compatibility and multiple transformer footprint compatibility
• Each preamp:
  • 63-65dB of gain
  • 20dB pad
  • polarity invert
  • DI input
  • Choice between variable and stepped gain
  • Output trim

Price:

• $315 for Gold, $295 for Copper and Bronze, $95 for Silver (all are full component kits)

More Information:

• Available for preorder from Hairball Audio