Preamps are given the difficult task of amplifying delicate small amplitude signals, such as the output of a microphone or an electric guitar, to a larger signal level acceptable for hard disk recorders, mixers or studio-grade effects processors.

For a mic pre, it is desirable that it be both clean and warm while delivering tons of gain, which is exactly what the Electro-Harmonix 12AY7 Mic Pre achieves. An instrument preamp's main job is to increase signal level but it is also useful to add warmth and dirt to the signal. Electro-Harmonix instrument preamps do just that. Many of our preamps use vacuum tubes for added warmth and clarity.

EQ can be used as a subtle tool to tweak the sound of your instrument to bring out a sweetness otherwise missing, or it can be used as a drastic effect to completely filter and change your sound. We give you the tone shaping tools; you supply the imagination.