Wolff Audio W1 – Single-Channel 500-Series Console Microphone Preamp

OVERVIEW

The Wolff Audio W1 is not a reinterpretation of a console microphone preamp – it is the console microphone preamp. This single-channel 500-series module is built directly from the same circuit found in Wolff Audio’s flagship consoles, preserving the original transformer topology, relay-controlled signal path, and carefully designed gain structure that engineers rely on in high-end recording environments.

One of the W1’s standout characteristics is its unusually low baseline gain, allowing you to capture extremely loud sources without engaging pads or sacrificing tone. From drums and amplified instruments to aggressive vocals, the W1 stays composed, controlled, and musical where many preamps begin to fold. Its dual-stage design also lets you drive the preamp for character while maintaining clean levels at your converters – giving you tone without penalty.

Big, punchy, and deeply musical, the W1 delivers authoritative low end, focused mids, and a refined top end with exceptional transient control. Whether you’re tracking modern productions or classic sessions, the W1 provides true console-grade performance in a compact 500-series format.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

True Console Preamp – No Compromises

The W1 is the exact microphone preamp used in Wolff Audio consoles, distilled into a single-channel 500-series module with no redesigns or shortcuts.

Unusually Low Baseline Gain

Capture extremely loud sources without pads or signal degradation, preserving clarity and punch even under demanding conditions.

Dual-Stage Gain Architecture

Push the preamp for tone while maintaining clean output levels, giving you flexibility without sacrificing headroom or control.

Relay-Controlled Signal Path

Precision relays ensure a clean, consistent signal path with minimal colouration and maximum reliability.

Big, Punchy, Musical Sound

Authoritative low end, fast transients, and controlled harmonic character make the W1 a powerful tool for any source.

FEATURES

• Single-channel 500-series microphone preamp
• Exact console preamp circuit from Wolff Audio flagship consoles
• Original transformer topology
• Relay-controlled signal path
• Unusually low baseline gain
• Dual-stage gain design for tone shaping
• High headroom operation
• No input pads required for loud sources
• Big, punchy, musical sonic character
• Designed and built by Wolff Audio

TECHNICAL SPECS

Type: Microphone Preamplifier

Format: 500-Series Module

Channels: 1

Circuit Design: Console microphone preamp (flagship Wolff Audio consoles)

Gain Structure: Dual-stage design

Baseline Gain: Exceptionally low for high-SPL sources

Signal Path: Relay-controlled

Transformers: Console-spec transformer topology

Headroom: Extremely high

Application: Studio microphone preamplification

Manufacturer: Wolff Audio