A-Designs EM Red – 500 Series Transformer Microphone Preamp
The A-Designs EM Red is a 500 Series Class A transformer-based microphone preamp designed for bold, forward tone with enhanced upper mids and a polished, open top end.
As part of A-Designs’ acclaimed “EM Series,” the EM Red offers a unique color within the lineup — providing clarity, presence, and punch that make vocals, guitars, and snares stand out in any mix.
With custom-wound transformers, discrete circuitry, and hand-built quality, the EM Red delivers vintage-inspired warmth with modern definition.
Key Features
- 500 Series microphone preamp with Class A, transformer-balanced design.
- Custom Cinemag input and output transformers deliver rich harmonics and dynamic depth.
- Distinctive midrange lift and open high-end response ideal for cutting through dense mixes.
- 70 dB of gain accommodates ribbons, dynamics, and condensers with ease.
- Front-panel Hi-Z input for direct connection of guitars, basses, or synths.
- 48V phantom power, phase reverse, and -20 dB pad for flexible signal control.
- Designed for vibrant, present sound without harshness — perfect for vocals and electric guitars.
- Part of the A-Designs EM Series “Color Preamps” for tonal variety and modular flexibility.
- Hand-built in the USA with precision Cinemag transformers and premium components.
Applications
- Vocals: Adds presence, brightness, and clarity to make vocals stand out in the mix.
- Electric Guitar: Enhances punch and articulation with beautiful transformer saturation.
- Snare Drum: Captures transient detail and natural crack without harshness.
- Acoustic Instruments: Provides crisp high-end sheen and realistic midrange body.
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 |
| Output Transformer | Custom nickel-core Cinemag transformer (for extended highs) |
| Controls | Gain, 48V, Pad (-20 dB), 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 Red?
The A-Designs EM Red delivers vibrant, modern tone with a classic transformer foundation.
Its slightly elevated upper mids and open top-end give sources clarity and forward presence that sit perfectly in a mix.
Whether used for vocals, guitars, or snare, the EM Red is the go-to preamp when you need definition, character, and energy — without sacrificing warmth or musicality.