Arcturus
Dual Class A preamp inspired by EMI TG12345 console—Triad transformer coupling, 30dB+ gain, mild crunch to fuzz.
Hand-built in Milan, Italy, the Arcturus replicates the input section of the EMI TG12345 recording console used on albums like Abbey Road and Dark Side of the Moon. The circuit uses two Class A gain stages coupled by a vintage Triad steel-core transformer, delivering over 30dB of gain range. Hand-selected vintage components include 1970s audiophile-grade capacitors, 1960s germanium transistors, and carbon composition resistors, paired with modern Neutrik jacks and TT potentiometers for reliability.
Four controls shape the tone: Gain controls the first stage output and can overdrive the second stage; Output manages the second stage and overall volume; Presence adjusts high midrange frequencies with interactive response to the gain stages; and a Channel toggle switch selects between low-gain and high-gain bias presets for the first stage. Very high input impedance prevents signal loss from long cable runs.
Made to order with 2-3 week lead times. Runs on standard 9V DC center-negative power, with support for up to 18V operation for additional headroom. Covers everything from barely-dirty rhythm tones to sustained, searing fuzz.
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