A-Designs EM Silver – 500 Series Transformer Microphone Preamp
The A-Designs EM Silver is a 500 Series transformer-based microphone preamp that delivers thick, vintage-style tone with extended low-end and smooth top-end character.
Designed with a steel output transformer and custom-wound input transformer, the EM Silver is voiced for a warm, muscular sound reminiscent of classic American consoles — perfect for drums, bass, guitars, and vintage-style vocals.
Handcrafted in the USA, it captures the unmistakable punch and harmonic texture that have made A-Designs’ “EM Series” preamps a studio favorite worldwide.
Key Features
- 500 Series microphone preamp with a rich, vintage-inspired tonal character.
- Custom-wound input and steel output transformers provide classic analog coloration.
- 70 dB of gain for use with dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones.
- Instrument (Hi-Z) input for DI recording of bass, guitar, and keyboards.
- 48V phantom power for condenser mic compatibility.
- Phase reverse switch for quick polarity correction.
- Pad switch (-20 dB) for high-output sources and maximum flexibility.
- Warm, rounded tone ideal for electric guitars, kick drum, bass amp, and male vocals.
- Part of the A-Designs “Color Preamp” series — interchangeable tonal flavors for any session.
- Hand-built in the USA using premium-grade components and Cinemag transformers.
Applications
- Guitar Amps: Adds punch and harmonic drive with rich transformer coloration.
- Bass DI: Produces full-bodied tone with depth and analog saturation.
- Drums: Perfect for kick or toms with powerful low-end and rounded transients.
- Vocals: Adds thickness and vintage presence to aggressive or soulful voices.
Technical Specifications
| Unit Type | 500 Series Microphone/Instrument Preamp |
|---|---|
| Circuit Type | Discrete Class A with transformer-balanced I/O |
| Gain Range | Up to +70 dB |
| Input Impedance | 2 kΩ (Mic), 1 MΩ (Instrument) |
| Output Transformer | Custom steel-core transformer for enhanced low-end response |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz – 60 kHz ±1 dB |
| THD + N | < 0.05% @ +20 dBu |
| Controls | Gain, 48V, Pad, Phase Reverse, Hi-Z Input |
| Power Requirement | Standard 500 Series rack ±16V DC |
| Format | Single-slot 500 Series module |
| Origin | Hand-built in the USA by A-Designs Audio |
Why Choose the A-Designs EM Silver?
The A-Designs EM Silver is the perfect choice for engineers seeking vintage warmth and transformer saturation in a compact 500 Series format.
Its distinctive tonal character — bold low end, smooth mids, and musical top — makes it ideal for drums, bass, guitars, and thick lead vocals.
As part of A-Designs’ acclaimed EM Series, it integrates seamlessly with other modules (such as the EM-Red or EM-Gold) to build a versatile palette of tonal flavors for any studio workflow.