Warm Audio Sound Techniques Jude Single-Channel Dual-Discrete Mic Preamp

The Warm Audio Sound Techniques Jude is a single-channel microphone preamplifier built around a dual-discrete topology that delivers classic British console character without transformer colouration. Named after original Sound Techniques designer Jude Hamilton, this preamp reproduces the clean, detailed signal path favoured by folk and rock engineers throughout the 1960s and 70s. The fully discrete Class-A design uses paired transistors in a symmetrical configuration, providing high headroom and low noise across the entire gain range.

Gain spans from 20dB to 65dB via a continuously variable control, accommodating ribbon microphones through to high-output condensers with precision. The circuit runs pure Class-A with no integrated circuits in the audio path, relying instead on hand-matched transistor pairs for both positive and negative signal phases. Phantom power supplies a full 48V for condenser operation. A polarity reverse switch, high-pass filter at 80Hz, and front-panel DI input with dedicated gain control extend functionality beyond straightforward mic duties. Output is via balanced XLR, maintaining signal integrity across long cable runs and complex routing scenarios.

Features

• Dual-discrete Class-A topology with symmetrical transistor-pair signal path
• Continuously variable gain control ranging from 20dB to 65dB
• Transformer-free design for minimal colouration and extended frequency response
• Front-panel instrument DI input with dedicated gain adjustment control
• 48V phantom power supply for condenser microphone operation
• High-pass filter switchable at 80Hz for low-frequency content management
• Polarity reverse switch for phase correction in multi-source recording
• Balanced XLR output connection for professional studio signal routing