The AEA RPQ2 and RPQ500
Ribbon mic experts Audio Engineering Associates, or AEA, have unveiled a pair of new mic preamps that are the latest incarnation of their well-respected RPQ preamp design. The two-channel rackmount RPQ2 and the single-channel 500-series format RPQ500 feature the same high input impedance, generous gain and unique EQ circuitry designed to bring the best out of passive ribbon mics, and, like their predecessor, offer 48V phantom power to cater for capacitor mics as well. But the new additions of a balanced line input and, in the case of the RPQ2, high-impedance instrument DI inputs, make this pair even more versatile.
With up to 81dB of gain, JFET circuitry and an input impedance of 20KΩ, AEA say that the new RPQs will deliver the same high headroom and low noise that made the original RPQ such an effective complement to passive ribbon mics. The unusual CurveShaper EQ features two independently switchable sections — a variable low-frequency cut and a high-frequency filter boost with gain and frequency controls. While the RPQ500 is a single-channel mic/line preamp in Lunchbox format, the 1U RPQ2 provides several additional features, not least the pair of DI inputs on the front panel. Users will also be able to patch in compressors and other effects between the preamp and the CurveShaper EQ. The RPQ500 and RPQ2 are available now, priced at £549 and £1399 respectively.The RPQ500 and RPQ2 are available now, priced at $649 and $1,499 respectively.
