Special OP-6
The Special OP-6 microphone amplifier is a handmade unit of the highest quality, built in the East fjords of Iceland.
This astounding tube preamp is the result of three years of obsessive work analyzing and replicating an original RCA OP-6, right down to the core of the transformers using X-Ray and CT scans.
We improved upon the original in a number of ways, one of them being noise floor. Our unit is quieter than any vintage OP-6 out there. We also broadened the gain range to span 40-84dB.
Added features include instrument input, phantom power (slow ramped), input impedance selection, pad, and polarity flip switches, plus our own unique saturating output attenuator. This attenuator not only pulls back the hot output when driving the preamp hard, but it also draws out more harmonic content than a normal attenuator, meaning that you get a fatter, fuller, driven sound that is blooming with overtones. We used to offer a normal attenuator option but nobody wanted it once they heard our saturating version.
We offer this device in two formats; a dual 3U high rack unit and a mono unit built into it’s own flightcase with carry handle and removeable front cover.
As well as the instrument inputs on the front there are two XLR inputs per channel on the rear, the second of which can be configured as either a mic input or a line input (all connections are upfront on mono units). It can also have phantom power disabled if you like, making that input ideal for your precious vintage ribbon mics. These options are chosen by you when you order your unit, as well as any custom engraving you might want on the front panel. Your studio's name/logo, your pets name....?
As opposed to using the very rare 1620 tubes of the original, we rigourously tested their younger sibling, the 5879, which we found to sound exactly the same, with lower microphonics, plus they are much easier to source as they were produced in large quantities all the way into the 80s. Hence we went with that and never looked back.
Ordering
Currently these preamps are only available directly from us. Each unit is built to order, with custom options being decided in direct email communication with Vinny. Here are the prices effective as of 1st November 2024. These exclude any VAT or shipping costs. Any local VAT and import costs are the responsibility of the buyer. All our products carry a full 2-year warranty, with technical support.