Top 10 Mic Preamps (April 2024)

Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator – ⭐ Best Overall Mic Preamp

CL-1 by Cloud Microphones

Uses Phantom power to give passive mics (mainly used for dynamic and ribbon mics) up to +25dB without passing Phantom power on to mic
Easy to use self contained design requires only Phantom power to work. **Does not use Phantom power to power mics
Recommended for use with all passive dynamic microphones
Compatible with tube, battery, or power supply driven microphones – safe for all passive ribbons with no transfer of Phantom
Does not power the mics themselves using Phantom power (that is not what this is designed for). instead, place the cloudlifter at the front of your dynamic mic, then hit it with Phantom Power and your basic mic (even an SM58 style mic) will shine like never before

Tube MP V3 by ART

GS458RT by Triton Audio

40085860 by Neewer

Input Voltage: 110V
Delivers reliable 48V phantom power for condenser microphones and transfer sound signal to sound card in a compact, durable, plastic housing.
Universal XLR input and output, compatible with all kinds of microphone music recording equipment.Comes with one XLR audio cable with high quality XLR male and female connectors.
Features a single channel unit with balanced mic inputs and outputs to connect in-line with your mic and mixer.
On/off power switch and LED indicator for ease of operation. One Adapter is included. Simple to use and ideal for stage and studio use.
Note: Phantom power provides a 48V voltage to the condenser microphone, but phantom power does not enhance the microphone sound quality and improve the normal volume; Microphone, Pop Filter, Mic Stand and 3.5mm to XLR Female Microphone Cable in the picture Not Included

AMS-SCARLETT-SOLO-3G by Focusrite

One of the best performing mic preamps the Scarlett range has ever seen, now with switchable air Mode to give your recordings a brighter and more open sound. One high-headroom instrument input to plug in your guitar or bass. Two hum-free balanced outputs provide clean audio playback.
High-performance converters enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/ 192kHz.
Quick start tool to get up and running easier than ever.
Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack, Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 3-month Splice subscription, and your choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration
LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE Klevgrand DAW Cassette upon registration and download.

MP13 by rolls

MIC BOOSTER CT 1 by Klark Teknik

TPS II by ART

Variable Input ImpedanceNewly enhanced V3 Variable Valve VoicingLED input meterAnalog output meterEnhanced ART Tube TechnologyAutomatically switches between instrument and mic preampWide frequency response (5hz-50kHz)Enhanced OPL Output Protection LimiterToroidal transformer
It features variable input impedance which allows users to dial in and match any microphone type from large condensers to ribbon mics
Like its predecessor, the DPS, the newly improved V3 feature provides optimized reference points to begin the recording process for guitars, bass guitars, synths, acoustic instruments, percussion, vocals, and more
Unique to its class, the TPS II provides level monitoring with 2 analog meters as well as 2 newly added input monitoring LED meters
High-Z instruments or balanced microphone signals are input through front and rear panel jacks

286s by dbx

Weight: 5.07 pounds
Dimensions: 19 x 5.8 x 1.8 inches
Warranty: This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and only in the united states. 1. The warranty registration card that accompanies this product must be mailed within 30 days after purchase date to validate this warranty. Proof-of-purchase is cons

Studio quality mic preamp/channel strip processor
Classic dbx compression puts great sound within easy reach
Frequency tuneable de-esser reduces sibilance and high frequency distortion
Enhancer increases the detail and definition of the high and low frequencies
Program adaptive expander/Gate. Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
Input: 1/4" TRS (x2) and XLR (x1); output: 1/4" TRS (x1)
Operating voltage: 120VAC 60Hz, 100VAC 50/60Hz
Purchase includes: dbx286s, power cord, operation manual, and rack mount screws and washers (x4)

WA-12 MKII by Warm Audio

"Utilizes premium grade input and output USA CineMag transformers 71db of Gain, fully discrete signal path Utilizes a discrete 6-pin socketed 1731 style opamp TONE button - Switches the input impedance from 600 ohms to 150 ohms Mic level balanced input: XLR"
"A lot of preamps on the market do a good job of raising the volume of mics and instruments
Unfortunately, many pres are doing only that, raising volume
The aoeSuper cleana designs of today often leave the signal exiting the preamp sounding much the same as it did entering it
If you are looking for a preamp to improve and shape your signal you will most definitely love the WA12 MKII