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Average Price: $480

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$599

$2000+

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Description

The FMR Microphone Preamp is a meticulously engineered piece of studio gear that blends Class-A operation with exceptional EMI resistance to deliver superior audio clarity. With its compact 1/3 rack design, this preamp is a versatile addition to any studio or live setup, offering up to 66 dB of gain with minimal distortion. Whether you're capturing the nuances of a delicate vocal performance or the robust sound of an electric guitar, this preamp ensures every detail is preserved.

Equipped with dual channels, the FMR Microphone Preamp features precision metering to keep your levels in check, and its gold-plated 12-position gain switch provides consistent and precise control. The balanced XLR inputs cater to both dynamic and condenser microphones, while the Hi-Z inputs make it easy to connect instruments like guitar, bass, and keyboard. The unit's slowly-ramping 48V phantom power protects sensitive microphones during operation.

The preamp’s unique circuitry constantly adapts to maintain low distortion and high common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR), ensuring long-lasting performance without the need for frequent adjustments. Additional features like TRS-balanced outputs, phase inversion control, and TRS inserts between the preamp stage and output drivers add to its professional appeal, making it a must-have for serious musicians and audio engineers alike.

Key Features:

  • Dual-channel Class-A operation
  • Up to 66 dB of gain with low distortion
  • Gold-plated 12-position gain switch
  • Precision metering with three LEDs per channel
  • Hi-Z inputs for guitars, basses, and keyboards
  • Balanced XLR inputs for dynamic and condenser mics
  • Slowly-ramping 48V phantom power
  • TRS-balanced outputs and TRS inserts
  • EMI resistance for smooth audio performance
  • Phase inversion control for resolving phase issues
JK

JK

Focusrite 2i2 vs FMR RNP

Video thumbnail for Focusrite 2i2 vs FMR RNP by JK

Focusrite 2i2 vs FMR RNP

JK

JK

Video thumbnail for Studiopreamp for recording bass, is the BAE DMP 1073 worth the money? by Sheik Yerbouti

Studiopreamp for recording bass, is the BAE DMP 1073 worth the money?

Sheik Yerbouti

Sheik Yerbouti

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about FMR Microphone Preamp.

Features and functionality

  • The FMR Audio RNP 8380 is praised for its clean, uncolored sound, making it ideal for users seeking a transparent preamp without added character.

    Source
  • The FMR Really Nice Preamp is praised for its frequency response, which allows users to accurately hear mic characteristics.

    Source
  • The Presonus Eureka, though discontinued, is recognized for its versatile preamp section and modifiable op amps for enhanced sound quality.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users note that the RNP 8380 is a step above cheaper preamps, such as those in the 150€ range, offering superior quality for a modest price increase.

    Source
  • The RNP 8380 is often compared alongside models like the Golden Age Pre73 and Warm Audio WA12, with users emphasizing personal preferences and mic compatibility over brand reputation.

    Source
  • Some users equate the quality of certain budget preamps, like the TubePre, with more expensive options, suggesting that price does not always correlate with performance.

    Source
  • The ART MPA series, with features like variable impedance and full-size VU meters, is compared favorably to higher-end brands despite its lower price point.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • While priced around 550€, the RNP 8380 is regarded as cost-effective for its performance, particularly when purchased used for around 350€.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners use the RNP 8380 with high-quality microphones like Brauner, highlighting its ability to maintain signal clarity across the audio chain.

    Source
  • The RNP 8380 is noted for its versatility across different applications, though specific mic pairings like the C12VR might not yield the best results.

    Source
  • The saturation control on the Presonus Eureka provides unique tonal options, especially effective with ribbon mics.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Despite its clean output, users rarely run VSTs through the RNP, preferring to use it for its intended preamp function rather than as an outboard processor.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners highlight using the RNP 8380 with a variety of microphones, including the C414 XLII, Perception 820, and AT3035, noting it maintains clarity but results may vary with different mics.

    Source
  • Owners note that using the US1800 interface's line inputs to bypass its preamps offers improved clarity when paired with external preamps like the RNP.

    Source

Critic Reviews

FMR Really Nice Preamp

soundonsound.com

The FMR Really Nice Preamp delivers on its promise of high-quality audio at an accessible price, boasting clear, natural sound with ample headroom, ideal for project studios. Its design prioritizes transparency over ultra-low noise, and while the unit is basic in features, it efficiently caters to mic, line, and instrument inputs. Notably, it lacks a low-cut switch and has a rudimentary metering system, which might be inconvenient for some. However, the focus on sound clarity and lack of coloration makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an authentic audio capture experience without unnecessary frills.

positive

FMR Audio: RNP 8380 Really Nice Preamp | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The FMR RNP 8380 Really Nice Preamp impresses as a standout mic preamp under $800, offering superior sound quality compared to budget consoles. Its simplicity and versatility shine in various applications, from bass guitars to snare drums. While the stepped gain control and lack of output trim can complicate level settings, and the power button reset is a minor annoyance, its robust performance and cool distortion when overdriven make it a must-consider for both home recordists and pro studios. At $500, it's a steal, not just another cheap preamp.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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