Pricing and availability

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Radial PowerPre 500 Series Microphone Preamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the world of professional audio with the Radial PowerPre 500 Series Microphone Preamp, a versatile powerhouse perfect for both purists and those seeking a touch of vintage warmth. This preamp is designed to seamlessly integrate into any 500 series rack, making it a must-have for serious studio setups. At the heart of its brilliance is the vintage-style Hammond broadcast transformer, which ensures a smooth, warm response while handling extreme transients with ease.

The PowerPre is not just about warmth; it offers up to 70dB of gain, ensuring that even the quietest sources can be amplified with pristine clarity. Whether you're capturing intimate vocals or beefy guitar tracks, the 3-position Vox control enhances your recordings with options like 'Breath' for added air, 'Punch' for extra body, or 'Linear' for a natural, uncolored sound. And with the AccuState low-noise input circuit, you can rest assured that your recordings will be free from unwanted noise.

Complete with a front-mounted XLR for quick connectivity and a recessed 48V phantom power switch for safety, the PowerPre is both user-friendly and robust. Its 10-segment LED meter provides precise signal monitoring, making it a reliable companion in any recording scenario. Whether you're tracking vocals, instruments, or using it as part of a larger channel strip, the Radial PowerPre is designed to deliver professional results with every session.

Key Features:

  • 500-series compatible with 70dB of gain
  • Vintage-style Hammond broadcast transformer
  • AccuState low-noise input circuit
  • 3-position Vox control for tonal shaping
  • Recessed 48V phantom power switch
  • 10-segment LED meter for signal monitoring

Owner's manual

Radial PowerPre 500 Series Microphone Preamp User Manual

Product specs

Preamp Type Solid State
Number of Channels 1
Phantom Power Yes
EQ Yes

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Radial PowerPre 500 Series Microphone Preamp?

The Radial PowerPre 500 Series is a solid-state preamp known for its clear and transparent sound. It features a single channel with built-in EQ and phantom power, making it versatile for various recording applications.

Does the Radial PowerPre 500 Series provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Radial PowerPre 500 Series includes phantom power, allowing you to use condenser microphones that require external power.

How does the EQ on the Radial PowerPre 500 Series enhance the recording process?

The EQ on the Radial PowerPre 500 Series allows for tonal shaping directly at the preamp stage, giving you more control over the sound before it reaches your DAW or recording device.

Is the Radial PowerPre 500 Series suitable for home studio use?

Yes, the Radial PowerPre 500 Series is well-suited for home studios, offering professional-grade sound quality in a compact 500 Series format, ideal for smaller setups.

Reviews

PROS

  • Distinctive sound profile compared to typical Neve or API clones

  • Affordable price point for its feature set

  • Built like a tank for durability

  • Clean sound with an excellent gain range

  • Three-position Vox switch for customizable tonal enhancement

  • Front input option for easier access

  • Sounds great when pushed into the red

  • Extremely versatile and simple to use

CONS

  • Onboard meter has poor visibility and accuracy

  • Requires Radial unit for instrument input, which is inconveniently located on the rear

  • Dual pot instead of independent gains can be frustrating

  • Often needs a cloudlifter for sufficient mic levels

  • Lacks an output fader for high level control

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Radial PowerPre 500 Series Microphone Preamp.

Features and functionality

  • The Radial PowerPre 500 Series is noted for its utilitarian design, ideal for setups needing individualized phantom power and minimal rack space usage.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to other preamps, the Radial PowerPre and Golden Age Pre-573 MKII are highlighted for their budget-friendly yet effective performance.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For those needing 6-8 units, the Radial PowerPre is seen as a cost-effective choice for its basic but essential features.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Radial PowerPre fits well in multitracking setups, providing necessary preamp functions for individual inputs on interfaces like the Behringer UMC1820.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Radial Engineering: PowerPre 500-series preamp | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

Radial's PowerPre 500 Series Microphone Preamp is a versatile and high-quality addition to any studio setup, boasting exceptional build quality and a unique sound character that avoids cliché. Its innovative Gain control optimizes signal-to-noise ratios, while the three-position voicing switch allows for tailored tonal shaping. Musicians will appreciate its ability to adapt to various sources, delivering everything from smooth vocals to punchy kick drums. However, the absence of a front-panel DI input may frustrate some users. Despite this minor inconvenience, the PowerPre shines in its performance and affordability, making it a strong contender for anyone looking to enhance their recording chain.

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