The 583s valve mic preamp from US boutique manufacturer LaChapell Audio is a 500-series unit designed ‘to add the warmth and character that only valves can offer’ alongside performance and flexibility.

Using a dual-gain architecture with a feedback loop configuration, the 583s promises a clean or rich signal by adjusting the input gain and output level control. The design features a Jensen JT-15K input transformer coupled to a Cinemag CMOQ nickel alloy output transformer, with balanced line drivers made by Burr-Brown and That Corporation for its output stage.

The unit comes fitted with a JJ ECC803 vacuum tube, however easy access to the valve invites furthero experimentation – with Telefunken ECC83 valves or 1960s RCA 12AX7 black plates, for example.

The 583sis also a ‘good neighbour’ to other modules within a 500-series rack with a fully enclosed chassis designed to prevent unwanted interference and help the direct cooling of the module.

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