Before we focused our attention to plugins, we at Plugin Discounts spent years outfitting world-class recording studios with gear. We put together studios for some of the biggest names in the music business – including Timbaland’s Thomas Crown Studio and Wu Tang Clan’s 36 Chambers facilities – among others. Eventually, with the wave of technology looming large, we decided to focus our business on plugins. But, our analog roots still run deep and we are proud to offer Avedis Audio hardware at Plugin Discounts.
Avedis Audio MA5 – Not Just Another 500 Series Preamp
The Avedis Audio MA5 stands out as one of the most respected 500-series microphone preamplifiers ever produced. Designed to capture the unmistakable warmth and harmonic richness of early 1970s British Class A consoles, the MA5 delivers authentic Neve-style tone in the ever popular 500 series format. Whether you’re tracking vocals, drums, guitars, or acoustic instruments, this preamp brings vintage character into contemporary workflows without sacrificing clarity or headroom.
A First in the History of 500 Series Design
The Avedis Audio MA5 was the FIRST 500-series mic pre to successfully adapt the classic single-ended Class A circuit architecture of early 1970s Neve consoles into a standard 500-series module. The approach to designing the MA5 was anything but simple. Make that single-ended Class A topology work in a +/-16V bipolar environment. A “no shortcut” approach was taken and the process delivered the round lows and smooth saturation of the legendary Neve preamps — in a standard single space 500-series module. The MA5 set a new benchmark and virtually all others are knockoffs that descend from this work.
Key Features:
- In-house meticulously made input and output transformers
- Stepped gain rotary switch in 5 dB increments
- Output level potentiometer with full mute function at minimum
- LED-illuminated push buttons for 48V phantom power and phase reverse
- Standard 500-series dimensions (1.5″ × 5.25″) compatible with all API racks
- 28kHz feature brings out high frequency detail
- Custom-made Marconi-style knobs
- Time-tested ultra reliable quality circuit design – nearly 20 years strong
- Hand-assembled in the USA with premium components for long-term reliability
Neve Style Sound Characteristics
Users consistently praise the Avedis MA5 for its harmonically rich, Neve-style character. It excels at adding weight and presence to sources while maintaining excellent transient response. Vocals sound full and intimate, drums gain power and air, and electric guitars acquire a thick, vintage edge. The low end extends cleanly down to 10 Hz, giving recordings a solid foundation without muddiness. Compared to modern clean preamps, the MA5 offers the organic saturation and midrange character that many engineers associate with those classic British consoles.
With its thoughtful design, premium components, and unmistakable British Class A character, the Avedis Audio MA5 remains a top choice for engineers seeking vintage-inspired tone in a modern 500-series package. Whether used for critical tracking or creative color, it consistently delivers professional results that stand the test of time.
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