AEA RPQ3
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
The RPQ3 is a serious preamp for engineers and musicians chasing that classic AEA sound. It's a two-channel powerhouse that delivers a beautifully warm and clean signal, perfect for vocals, acoustic instruments, and anything needing a touch of vintage vibe. If you're building a high-end studio and want a signature preamp sound, this is a strong contender.
Product Description
- AEA RPQ3
- Microphone Amplifier
- 2 Channels
- 85 dB Gain
- Two-band EQ for processing the treble and bass
- Balanced insert per channel (before EQ)
- Switchable 48 V phantom power and phase inversion
- Equivalent noise level: -130 dBu (typical)
- 40 Ohm source
- Equivalent noise level: -128 dBu (typical)
- 150 Ohm source
- Max. XLR output level: +27 dBu at 600 Ohm
- Input impedance with phantom power: 11.3 kOhm
- Input impedance with phantom power: 68 kOhm
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 482 x 228 x 457 mm
- Weight: 2 kg
PROS
- • Exceptional gain range provides clean, powerful amplification.
- • Discrete Class A preamp design delivers a warm, musical character.
- • Balanced inserts offer flexible signal routing and processing options.
- • AEA’s signature sonic signature brings vintage tube warmth.
CONS
- • Size and weight make it less ideal for mobile or smaller studios.
- • Two-band EQ is limited compared to more complex processing options.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many studios.
Product Video
Key Features
Channels
2
Preamp Type
Discrete Class A
Gain Range
85 dB
Phantom Power
48 V
Connections
XLR
Weight
2 kg
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Frequently Asked Questions
The RPQ3 is generally warmer and more colored than the MTR2, which is known for its transparency. Think of the RPQ3 as adding a subtle vintage character, while the MTR2 is more neutral.
The lower impedance (11.3 kOhm) generally offers a tighter low-end response, while the higher impedance (68 kOhm) can yield a more open and airy sound, particularly with ribbon microphones.
They are indeed before the EQ, allowing for external processing like compression or EQ before AEA’s internal EQ is applied, providing maximum flexibility.
