A-Designs EM Gold – 500 Series Transformer Microphone Preamp
The A-Designs EM Gold is a 500 Series microphone preamp designed for rich, detailed, and harmonically balanced sound with enhanced low-frequency depth and smooth high-end response.
Part of A-Designs’ acclaimed “EM Series” of color preamps, the EM Gold blends the midrange focus of the EM Red with the warm bottom-end authority of the EM Silver, making it an ideal choice for vocals, bass, and acoustic instruments.
Its custom-wound transformers and discrete Class A circuitry deliver the unmistakable analog depth and musical texture that define professional analog front-ends.
Key Features
- 500 Series microphone preamp with discrete Class A transformer-balanced design.
- Custom-wound input and output transformers for warm, open, and harmonically rich tone.
- 70 dB of gain for use with ribbons, dynamics, and condensers.
- Front-panel Hi-Z input for DI recording of bass, guitar, or synths with true analog character.
- 48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
- Pad switch (-20 dB) for high-output sources.
- Phase reverse switch for phase alignment flexibility.
- Warm, focused midrange and extended lows ideal for vocals, bass, and acoustic sources.
- Part of the A-Designs EM “color” preamp series – sonically matched for modular tonal variety.
- Hand-built in the USA with top-tier components and Cinemag transformers.
Applications
- Vocals: Delivers warmth, depth, and a polished midrange presence.
- Bass Guitar: Provides full-bodied, rounded tone with harmonic richness.
- Acoustic Instruments: Adds smooth detail and natural warmth to guitars, strings, and pianos.
- Electric Guitar: Captures body and articulation with pleasing transformer coloration.
Technical Specifications
| Unit Type | 500 Series Microphone/Instrument Preamp |
|---|---|
| Circuit Type | Discrete Class A with transformer-balanced input and output |
| Gain Range | Up to +70 dB |
| Input Impedance | 2 kΩ (Mic), 1 MΩ (Instrument) |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz - 60 kHz ±1 dB |
| THD + N | < 0.05% @ +20 dBu |
| Controls | Gain, 48V, Pad, Phase Reverse, Hi-Z Input |
| Output Transformer | Custom nickel-core Cinemag transformer |
| 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 Gold?
The A-Designs EM Gold offers a beautifully balanced tonal profile that sits perfectly between the EM Silver’s low-end heft and the EM Red’s crisp midrange bite.
Its transformer-based design provides depth, color, and natural harmonic saturation that enhance any source.
Whether you’re tracking vocals, acoustic guitar, or bass, the EM Gold gives you analog richness and tonal precision that elevate your recordings to a professional level.