SAMAR Audio Design AL Active – 48V Phantom-Powered Inline Microphone Preamp

OVERVIEW

The SAMAR Audio Design AL Active is a premium inline microphone preamp engineered to unlock the full performance of passive ribbon and dynamic microphones. Designed by Dr. Mark Fouxman, the AL Active delivers 18dB of exceptionally clean gain using the same custom toroidal transformer technology found in SAMAR’s acclaimed active ribbon microphones. Unlike conventional microphone boosters that rely primarily on solid-state gain stages, the AL Active generates its gain within the transformer itself, resulting in virtually no additional noise while preserving the natural depth, openness and three-dimensional character of the original microphone.

Purpose-built for demanding recording environments, the AL Active incorporates a sonically transparent output buffer that isolates the microphone from cable capacitance and varying microphone preamp input impedances. Its optimal 10kΩ load allows passive microphones to operate under ideal conditions, delivering greater clarity, lower distortion and improved transient response. By maintaining the integrity of the microphone’s signal before it reaches your audio interface or console, the AL Active allows ribbon and dynamic microphones to perform at their full potential.

Handcrafted in the USA, the AL Active features a custom-machined enclosure designed to plug directly into a microphone’s XLR output, eliminating the need for an additional microphone cable between the microphone and preamp. This unique design minimises unwanted resistance, capacitance and other electrical losses that can negatively affect audio quality, resulting in a cleaner, more transparent signal path for professional recording, broadcast and live sound applications.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Premium Inline Gain for Ribbon and Dynamic Microphones

The AL Active provides 18dB of exceptionally clean gain, allowing passive ribbon and dynamic microphones to achieve optimal recording levels without introducing unwanted noise or distortion.

Custom Toroidal Transformer Design

Unlike conventional microphone boosters, the AL Active derives its gain from a premium toroidal transformer based on Dr. Mark Fouxman’s acclaimed active microphone designs, preserving the natural warmth, depth and transparency of the original signal.

Exceptionally Transparent Signal Path

A carefully designed output buffer isolates the microphone from cable and preamp loading, ensuring maximum clarity, natural frequency response and excellent transient performance throughout the recording chain.

Direct-to-Microphone Connection

Its precision-machined housing connects directly to the microphone’s XLR output, eliminating the need for an additional microphone cable and reducing unwanted electrical losses caused by cable capacitance and resistance.

Optimised for Passive Ribbon Microphones

Designed with a 10kΩ optimal input load, the AL Active allows passive ribbon microphones to deliver their most open, detailed and natural sonic performance while also benefiting many dynamic microphones.

Handcrafted in the USA

Every AL Active is individually handcrafted in the USA using premium components and precision manufacturing techniques to ensure outstanding reliability and long-term performance.

FEATURES

• 18dB of ultra-clean inline gain for passive ribbon and dynamic microphones.
• 48V phantom-powered operation eliminates the need for batteries or external power supplies.
• Custom toroidal transformer generates gain naturally with virtually no added noise.
• Transformer-based amplification preserves the microphone’s original warmth, depth and three-dimensional character.
• Transparent output buffer isolates the microphone from cable capacitance and microphone preamp loading.
• Optimised 10kΩ load impedance provides ideal operating conditions for passive ribbon microphones.
• Direct XLR connection plugs straight into the microphone, eliminating the need for an additional microphone cable.
• Custom CNC-machined enclosure provides a durable, precision-engineered housing for professional use.
• Suitable for virtually all passive ribbon and dynamic microphones, including SAMAR Audio Design ribbon microphones.
• Improves available gain while reducing noise and distortion from connected microphone preamps.
• Handcrafted in the USA with meticulous attention to quality and reliability.
• Backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind.
• 15-day satisfaction guarantee allows customers to purchase with confidence.

TECHNICAL SPECS

General

Type: Inline microphone preamp

Power Requirement: 48V Phantom Power

Manufacture: Handcrafted in the USA

Performance

Gain: 18dB

Circuit Design: Transformer-based gain with transparent output buffer

Transformer: Custom toroidal transformer based on SAMAR active ribbon microphone technology

Recommended Microphone Load: Optimised for approximately 10kΩ microphone preamp input impedance

Performance Characteristics:

• Ultra-low noise
• Low distortion
• Transparent signal path
• Preserves microphone transient response
• Maintains natural three-dimensional sound
• Excellent clarity and detail

Electrical

Power Requirement: 48V Phantom Power

Output Impedance: 65 Ohms

Connection: Balanced XLR inline design

Physical

Dimensions:

• Diameter/Width — 25.4mm (1″)
• Height/Length — 95.3mm (3.75″)

Weight: 90g (3.17oz)

Construction: Custom CNC-machined metal housing

Country of Origin: USA

Recommended Applications

• Passive ribbon microphones
• Dynamic microphones
• Studio recording
• Broadcasts
• Live sound

Compatible Microphones

The AL Active is suitable for use with virtually all passive ribbon and dynamic microphones, including:

• SAMAR Audio Design MF65
• SAMAR Audio Design VL37
• SAMAR Audio Design AL95
• Other passive ribbon microphones
• Most professional dynamic microphones

Warranty

Manufacturer’s Warranty: 1 Year

Satisfaction Guarantee: 15 Days