Maag audio PREQ2

The Mäag Audio PREQ2™ is a high-end, dual-channel analog microphone preamp featuring a musical EQ and the renowned AIR BAND®, all in a standalone 1U rackmount design. Designed as a complete recording and signal processing solution, it combines high-quality amplification, precise EQ, and advanced features to sculpt sound with finesse and musicality.

Each channel is based on a discrete Class A circuit coupled with a nickel-core input transformer, designed by Mäag Audio. This architecture ensures a rich, detailed, and open sound with excellent transient response and ample headroom up to +27 dBu. The microphone preamp offers up to 71 dB of gain, spread across two selectable ranges, making it suitable for both dynamic and the most sensitive condenser microphones. Extremely low noise (EIN of -128 dB) ensures clean and accurate recordings, even with the most challenging sources.

The PREQ2™ also stands out for its exceptional versatility. Each channel features switchable XLR and XLR line inputs, as well as a front-panel high-impedance (Hi-Z) instrument input with a Thru output, ideal for simultaneously recording a direct signal and an amplifier. An automatic detection system protects the inputs and prevents any interference with phantom power.

For processing, the PREQ2™ incorporates three complementary EQ sections. A variable high-pass filter (20 Hz to 200 Hz, 12 dB/octave) effectively cleans up the low end. A low-frequency section offers a range of frequencies (from 10 Hz to 165 Hz) with a musical boost of up to +9 dB to enhance body and warmth. Finally, the AIR BAND® section, a true signature sound of Mäag Audio, adds presence, air, and definition to the high frequencies (up to 40 kHz) with a natural, non-aggressive sound.

The PREQ2™ is perfectly suited for tracking, reamping, mixing, and subtle signal coloring, whether for vocals, guitars, basses, drums, or line-level sources. Numerous integrated functions (pad, phase inversion, phantom power, LED indicators) offer complete signal control, while the detented controls ensure excellent precision and easy recall of settings.

Versatile, musical, and robust, the Mäag Audio PREQ2™ is a comprehensive, high-quality tool designed for professional studios and demanding production environments.