Over 20 years ago, Scott LaChapell sought to develop a boutique tube mic preamp that allowed an engineer to have vast control over the harmonic content. In conjunction with his father, a senior design engineer at Lawrence Livermore Labs, LaChapell built the first 992 tube mic preamp. 20 years later it has been used by the likes of Hans Zimmer, Brad Paisley, Phil Keaggy and many others.
The 992 established what would be a signature sound, look, and build quality for all LaChapell Audio products, including the all new 983M single channel tube mic preamp and the 983S MK2 two channel tube mic preamp. These units feature True48, a dynamic phantom power supply that properly powers condenser and active mics.
“Phantom power is notorious for not providing enough power for many mics. True48 gives mics a more stable power supply,” states Ted Klein, president of Digital Audio Labs who purchased LaChapell Audio in 2017. “We’re seeing faster transient recovery, more headroom, and lower distortion levels from most mics that use True48. The difference to how the mics feel and respond is stunning. It’s really something that needs to be experienced.”
True48 is featured in the 983M single channel mic preamp. Its half rack size makes it a perfect preamp for users who travel from studio to studio, podcasters and other creators that need versatility from a preamp. Those looking for a rack mountable version can find True48 in the new 983S MK2 two channel tube preamp.
In addition to True48, both units have front panel Hi-Z inputs, high and low pass filters with selectable frequencies, mute, polarity, and -20dB pad options. Both units are available now and for a limited time on sale in LaChapell Audio’s 20th anniversary celebration.
