PreSonus
Presonus TubePre v2 Tube Preamplifier DI Box
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Highlights
- 12AX7 tube-based preamp with XMAX solid-state input stage
- Gain control and tube drive saturation control
- Low-noise dual-servo (no capacitors) gain stage
- Separate instrument and mic inputs
- Phantom power, HP filter, -20 dB pad, and polarity-reverse
Why You'll Love It
- Adds adjustable 12AX7 vacuum tube warmth and saturation to your audio signals
- Pairs a solid-state XMAX input with a capacitor-free dual-servo gain stage for low noise
- Provides dedicated inputs for both microphones and direct instrument connections
- Includes essential signal tools like phantom power, high-pass filtering, and polarity reverse
- Protects hot signals from unwanted clipping using a built-in -20 dB pad switch
Pros
- +Real 12AX7 tube saturation control
- +Low-noise capacitor-free gain stage
- +Separate mic and instrument inputs
- +Built-in phantom power and -20 dB pad
Cons
- -No built-in digital USB output mentioned
- -Lacks detailed physical dimensions in specs
Detailed Review
The PreSonus TubePre v2 is a compact tube preamplifier and DI box designed to give microphones and direct instruments added warmth and harmonic character. Built around an XMAX solid-state input stage and a 12AX7 vacuum tube, it allows musicians and recordists to shape their tone before sending the signal downstream into an interface or mixer.
Signal shaping centers on dedicated gain and tube drive controls. By adjusting the drive, you can dial in subtle analog warmth or push the 12AX7 tube into rich saturation. A low-noise dual-servo gain stage operates without capacitors in the signal path, keeping your underlying audio clean while you blend in the desired amount of tube character.
Utility controls cover key studio and stage needs. The unit features separate inputs for microphones and instruments, alongside built-in phantom power for condenser mics, a high-pass filter to clean up low-end rumble, a polarity-reverse switch, and a -20 dB pad to handle hot incoming signals without unwanted distortion.
Because this is a dedicated analog preamp and direct box, it requires an external audio interface, mixer, or recorder to capture digital tracks, as no onboard digital conversion or USB connectivity is listed. Additionally, the seller specifications do not provide details on exact chassis dimensions or power supply requirements.
Verdict: The PreSonus TubePre v2 is an excellent choice for vocalists and instrumentalists seeking flexible tube saturation and clean preamplification. Its dedicated mic and instrument inputs, paired with essential routing switches, make it a versatile front-end addition to any home or project recording setup.
Who Should Buy It
A great fit if you:
- Want to add variable 12AX7 tube saturation to your vocals or instruments
- Need a direct box with separate mic and instrument inputs
- Require built-in phantom power and low-frequency filtering for microphone recording
Consider something else if you:
- Need an all-in-one audio interface with direct USB computer output
- Prefer an entirely solid-state signal path without tube drive controls
FAQ
What kind of tube does this preamp use?
It features a 12AX7 vacuum tube paired with an XMAX solid-state input stage and a tube drive saturation control.
Can I plug both instruments and microphones into this unit?
Yes, it includes separate inputs specifically dedicated to microphones and instruments.
Does it have phantom power for condenser microphones?
Yes, phantom power is included, along with a high-pass filter, a -20 dB pad, and a polarity-reverse switch.
Product Details
| Brand | PreSonus |
| ASIN | B0072JBCTK |
