Warm Audio TB12 Tone Beast Black Microphone Preamplifier
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| Province | Standard Shipping | Express Shipping |
|---|---|---|
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| QC, MB | $29 | $69 |
| Other | $39 | $119 |
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Description
The Warm Audio TB12 Tone Beast Black is a fully discrete, high-voltage microphone preamplifier with 71 dB of gain and extensive tone-shaping options. Featuring dual switchable CineMag USA output transformers (steel and 50% nickel), two interchangeable discrete op-amps, and selectable capacitor types, the TB12 provides an unusually wide palette of tonal character from a single 1U preamp.
Tone-Shaping Options
- Transformer selection: Steel output (punchy, forward) or 50% Nickel output (warmer, smoother), with a bypass option to remove the output transformer entirely
- Op-amp selection: 1731-style (vintage, harmonically rich) or 918-style (cleaner, more neutral), both socketed for user replacement with any 2520 6-pin footprint op-amp
- Capacitor selection: Tantalum (warmer) or Electrolytic (more open)
- Tone switch: 150 or 600 Ohm input impedance
The output attenuation control allows driving the preamp and transformers into saturation while controlling the level hitting your converter.
Inputs and Connectivity
Front and rear XLR mic inputs are joined by a balanced TRS line input and a high-impedance 1/4" instrument input (2 MOhm), which routes through the full discrete signal path including both CineMag transformers and the active op-amp. A TRS insert send/return loop sits between the preamp and output transformer for patching in external processing. The switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and -20 dB pad handle loud sources and rumble before the signal reaches the gain stage.
Specifications
- Type: Single-channel microphone/instrument preamplifier
- Gain: 71 dB
- Signal path: Fully discrete, high-voltage
- Transformers: CineMag USA (dual output: steel, 50% nickel)
- Op-amps: Dual discrete, socketed (1731 vintage, 918 cleaner)
- High-pass filter: 80 Hz
- Pad: -20 dB
- Phantom power: +48V
- Inputs: XLR mic (front and rear), TRS balanced line, 1/4" Hi-Z instrument (2 MOhm)
- Outputs: XLR, 1/4" TRS (balanced)
- Insert: 1/4" TRS send/return
- Metering: LED VU
- Power: 115/230V switchable, IEC
- Rack size: 1U, 19"
In the Box
- Warm Audio TB12 Tone Beast Black
- IEC power cable