Vanad 500
Microphone Preamplifier
Vanad 500 is a characterful microphone and instrument preamplifier designed for the API 500-series format. Featuring transformer-balanced input and output with IGS Custom transformers, it delivers weight, clarity, and musical saturation across a wide range of sources. Fully stepped controls ensure precise gain staging and repeatable settings, while separate gain and output switches allow the preamp to be driven creatively without overloading downstream gear. With support for microphones, line-level sources, and a front-panel Hi-Z instrument input, Vanad 500 is a versatile, tone-forward preamp built for professional recording environments.
Preamplification with Character
Vanad 500 is designed to bring depth, presence, and musical color to any recording chain. Built in the API 500-series standard, it combines classic transformer topology with modern reliability, making it equally suited for tracking and tone shaping.
Transformer-Balanced Signal Path
IGS Custom transformers on both the input and output provide proper isolation, headroom, and harmonic richness. This design ensures a solid low end, smooth midrange, and controlled high frequencies, even when the preamp is pushed.
Stepped Controls for Precision Gain Staging
All front-panel controls are fully stepped, allowing precise adjustments and easy recall. Separate gain and output switches give engineers full control over saturation and level, enabling creative drive without compromising signal integrity.
True Versatility for Any Source
Vanad 500 handles dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones with ease, while also accommodating line-level signals and instruments. A convenient front-panel Hi-Z input makes it ideal for guitars, basses, and keyboards, while microphone inputs are accessible from both the front and rear panels.
Built for Everyday Studio Work
Whether used for vocals, instruments, or re-amping duties, Vanad 500 delivers consistent, characterful results and integrates seamlessly into any professional 500-series setup.
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Specifications
| All Stepped Manipulators | Yes |
| High-Pass Filter (HPF) | OFF, 30 Hz, 100 Hz (6 dB/oct) |
| Input Impedance Balanced |
1.2 kΩ, IGS Custom transformer |
| Input Pad | −30 dB to 0 dB, 3 dB steps |
| Output Impedance Balanced |
600 Ω, IGS Custom transformer |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
| Maximum Input Level | +20 dBu (line) |
| Maximum Output Level | +22 dBu |
| Maximum Gain | 60 dB |
| Noise Level | −99 dBA |
| THD+N | Up to 0.2% |
| Power Consumption | 3 W |
| Shipping Weight | 1 kg |











