Phoenix audio DRS-8 Mk2
The Phoenix Audio DRS-8 Mk2 is a professional 8-channel Class A mic/DI preamp designed to deliver high-end sound quality and versatility in the studio. Inspired by vintage British circuitry, it combines remarkable transparency with the ability to add musical harmonic warmth, ideal for both modern recording and more analog-oriented productions.
Its design features an original architecture with a transformerless, balanced mic input, enabling a very wide frequency response, excellent transient accuracy, and high signal fidelity. With a high input impedance (10 kΩ), the DRS-8 Mk2 is perfectly suited to dynamic and ribbon microphones, delivering a detailed, natural, and balanced sound.
On the output side, each channel is equipped with the discrete Class A DSOP-2 circuit, paired with custom-wound DB694 transformers. This combination adds character and depth to the signal, allowing it to transition from a clean, open sound to a rich, musical saturation, typical of the best analog gear. This design, developed by David Rees, follows in the footsteps of classic circuitry used in vintage consoles.
The DRS-8 Mk2 also incorporates a high-impedance DI circuit (10 MΩ) on each channel, ideal for instruments such as guitars, basses, synthesizers, or drum machines. This FET-free circuit preserves signal integrity and reproduces all the dynamics and nuances of playing.
Designed for professional use, it offers comprehensive and intuitive controls: adjustable gain, input attenuator, output fader, as well as essential functions such as high-pass filter, phase inversion, +48V phantom power, and mute, accessible via dedicated buttons. LED indicators allow for precise visual monitoring of levels on each channel.
Its robust construction with military-grade PTFE silver internal wiring ensures reliability and longevity, even in demanding environments. Thanks to its 8 channels, rack format and comprehensive connectivity, the Phoenix Audio DRS-8 Mk2 is an ideal solution for recording studios, multi-microphone setups (drums, live, orchestra) and any application requiring a versatile, musical and high-performance preamp.
Type: Analog microphone preamp/DI
Format: 19" rack – 2U
Channels: 8
Class: Class A
Preamp
Mic Input: Balanced, transformerless
Input Impedance: 10 kΩ
Gain Range: -30 dB to -70 dB (in 5 dB steps)
Additional Gain: +10 dB via output fader
Input Attenuation: -15 dB
Max Output Level: +26 dBu
Noise: -90 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
Audio Stages
Output: Class A DSOP-2 discrete circuit
Transformers: Custom DB694
Frequency Response (Input):
-0.4 dB at 40 Hz
-0.3 dB at 25 kHz
Frequency Response (Output):
20 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.5 dB
DI (Instrument)
DI Input Impedance: 10 MΩ
FET-free circuitry for natural sound reproduction
Features
High-pass filter: 80 Hz, -6 dB/octave
Phase inversion
+48 V phantom power
Mute per channel
Output fader (21 positions)
5-segment LED indicator per channel
Connectivity
Inputs: XLR combo / TRS jack (Neutrik)
Outputs: XLR + D-sub 25
Power & Construction
Power supply: 110 V / 240 V switchable
Internal wiring: PTFE silver (military grade)
Robust construction for heavy-duty use
Miscellaneous
A/D conversion: No (pure analog)
Ideal for studio, multi-channel recording, and live performance
Euroguitar Reference : 122496
