AEA RPQ3 3rd Gen 2-Channel Microphone Preamplifier with EQ
AEA calls it a "ribbon" preamp, but it's great on any mic! Handmade in Pasadena, the 3rd gen RPQ offers +85 dB of effortless gain and an expanded EQ section.
$1,899.00
- 12 payments of$158.25/mo
Overall User Ratings (based on 1 ratings)
Submitted September 26, 2025 by William A in Kalamazoo, MI
"Perfect for drum overheads!"
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I ended up picking one of these up after trying several other options for drum overheads. I'm using a matched pair of Royer R10s, admittedly not the best choice for the job, but it's what I have. They are a bit dark and not as detailed, but the RPQ3 can brighten them up and give such pro sounding results. The cymbals aren't coming in too hot. I barely need to supplement with mics for the kick and snare. The recorded drums accurately match the sound live in the room. The RPQ3 is also great for vocals and acoustic instruments. It's very transparent, but it still has plenty of life to it. It's not at all bland sounding. For cleaner mic preamps, I've tried Grace M201 and the Empirlical Mike-E. I prefer the AEA. 4.5 stars because it doesn't have a DI.
Musical Background:
30 + years of gigging and recording
Musical Style:
The love and the hate...
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