HO2 All Discrete 2-Channel Mic Preamp

HO2 comes with all-discrete circuits throughout. The entire unit uses 6 high-voltage discrete opamps. Compared with traditional IC opamps, discrete opamps provide unparalleled bandwidth and dynamic range advantages. Take a glance inside, you will find the most precise and advanced build among all mic preamps.

To be qualified for today's production, a mic preamp has to be capable of staying clean no matter how much gain is offered. Inspired by Dr. Massenburg, the Z&H original Zen Core with bipolar transistors preserves the clarity and transparency while maintaining tastefulness. Gaining as much as 75dB, your recording will still sound solid, real, and charming, making HO2 native to any acoustic instruments (piano, guitar, strings, snare, overhead, etc.) and vocal.

You can count on HO2 for a faithful recording, while expecting some pleasant surprises no matter what passes through.

The linear trim-matching Zen knobs for mic gain takes HO2 to both ends of the spectrum. They offer a linear gain control in a flexible 10dB interval. If you feel like adding some spice, turning it from "0" to "Hit" (+5dB) will bring up more character.

What's special about HO2 (compared with its 8-channel cousin), is the additional modern-designed permalloy output transformer. When engaged, it will add harmonics to the sound, doubling HO2's landscape of sonic expression. Depending on what genre you are after, you are a tweak away from beating some of the most expensive preamps in the world.

Each channel features a stepped gain knob with 5dB increments. In addition to the linear trim-matching knob, a channel also benefits from a DI input switch, a 48V switch, a pad switch, a polarity invert button, and a 3-level low cut.

With those utilities onboard, HO2 supports bands, orchestra, and choir recordings single-handedly & hassle-free.

The 56V high-voltage linear power supply underpins a solid and spacious sound. This increasingly rare feature has stood the test of time, handling a higher dynamic range, offering more headroom, and reducing noise effectively.

Before it gets shipped, 2 real mixing engineers will test it and sign their names, so will every craftsman who participated in the making. Boutique-grade craftsmanship makes no effort in producing many.