Behringer Releases TUBE ULTRAGAIN MIC500USB

Betting that audiophiles will appreciate a tube-based amplifier again, Behringer has launched a small tube preamplifier in the form of the TUBE ULTRAGAIN MIC500USB. Although transistors have succeeded the tube-based amplifier market of the 70’s, many musicians agree that tubes deliver a far superior sound. The TUBE ULTRAGAIN MIC500USB’s hand-selected 12AX7 vacuum tube gives everything from microphones to acoustic or bass guitars that vintage tube vibe — in a dependable and ultra-affordable package, says Behringer.

The MIC500USB is designed for studio and live applications. Using balanced XLR and 1⁄4″ TRS inputs, it’s designed for use with standard digital recorders and sound cards, imbuing signals with the “warmth,” presence and classic tube-compression that will bring your digital tracks to life. The MIC500USB’s controls consist of: switches for +48 V phantom power, 20 dB pad, Phase Reverse and Limiter, plus vintage-style gain and output knobs. An eight-segment LED meter provides accurate monitoring of output levels. And it can be used as a high-end DI (Direct Injection) box in the studio or on the stage.

Here are all the specs [PDF].