Phoenix Audio Ascent - 2 Microphone Preamp with DI

Phoenix Audio Ascent Two Microphone Preamp 

2-channel Mic Preamp/DI Class A Circuit Path, Transformerless Mic Input Stage, and Transformer-balanced Output Stage 

Please allow 10-14 days for delivery

Next-gen 2-channel Class A Mic Pre

The Phoenix Audio Ascent Two is a 2-channel mic preamp/DI that takes a decidedly modern approach to Class A circuit design to serve up a broad tonal palette while retaining its vintage vibe. Featuring per-channel electronically balanced, transformerless input circuits and discrete, transformer-balanced output stages, the Ascent Two's superior sonics, operational ease, versatility, and tonal dexterity have made it a favorite and it's no mystery why. From audiophile clean to classic British saturation, the Phoenix Ascent Two does it all with poise and panache.

Hi-fidelity transformerless mic input stage

Phoenix Audio's proprietary electronically balanced, transformerless mic input circuit handles fast transients while maintaining the smooth, warm, creamy characteristics that endear Class A mic preamps to recording engineers. Handily outperforming transformer-coupled designs in both frequency response and slew rate, the Phoenix Ascent Two captures articulate, full-bodied, and punchy input signals, allowing you to drive the output stage for an immense range of pure Class A tone, from modern audiophile clarity to vintage-flavored warmth — and everything in-between.

Masterful transformer-balanced output stage

Phoenix Audio couples their custom-wound DB694 output transformer to a fully discrete, proprietary DSOP-2 output amplifier, itself a direct descendant of the renowned TF1 amp that Phoenix chief designer David Rees developed as an upgrade for vintage Neve 80 Series console modules. Outperforming the TF1, the DSOP-2 represents a pinnacle of Class A output circuit design, offering a seamless tonal range from ultra-clean to gorgeously saturated.

The high-impedance DI circuit

The Phoenix Ascent Two includes a DI circuit with a very high 10 Mohm input impedance that notably features no field effect transistors. This design does not load guitar and bass pickups and allows the natural sound of both vintage and modern instruments to shine, while actually enhancing the tone with glimmer and growl as if you were plugged into your favorite amp. Synthesizers, drum machines, and even computer audio outputs can likewise be sweetened by the Ascent Two's direct inputs.

Easy, intuitive operation in the studio or on the road

Because you're starting with an immaculate and robust electronically balanced input signal, the Ascent Two makes it easy, quick, and intuitive to dial in the perfect sound for any source. The stepped input gain controls give you reliable settings recall, and with 70db of gain on tap, you can use your low-output ribbon mics on quiet sources. The variable output fader provides an additional 10dB of gain, simplifying your gain structure so you can zero in on the right sounds without getting tied up in complex gain staging. Drive the versatile DSOP-2 output stage to taste, dialing in vintage flavor as desired. Modern or vintage — with the Phoenix Audio Ascent Two mic preamp/DI, you've got the best of both worlds.

Phoenix Audio Ascent Two 2-channel Mic Preamp/DI Features:

• Class A, transformerless, electronically balanced mic input stage
• Transformer-coupled discrete DSOP-2 Class A output stage with custom-wound DB694 output transformer
• Wired with mil-spec, silver-plated PTFE cable
• 70dB of mic gain; additional 10dB of output gain
• Front- and rear-panel XLR mic inputs
• 10 Mohm Class A DI with 30dB of gain
• 15dB input pad
• Highpass Vari-Filter: 70Hz to 400Hz on a 21-position detented control
• LED gain metering
• Polarity reverse switch
• Switchable 48V phantom power

STL PRO AUDIO is the Authorised NZ Distributor for Phoenix Audio.