




The AEA RPQ503 is a 500 Series preamplifier with AEA’s 3rd generation circuitry, delivering up to 85 dB of clean gain, ultra-high 68 kΩ input impedance, and an extended EQ section for precise tonal shaping.
High-gain preamplification
The RPQ503 provides up to 85 dB of clean, noise-free gain, making it ideal for capturing quiet sources with exceptional headroom and detail. This power ensures reliable performance with passive ribbon microphones, while maintaining pristine signal integrity across any microphone type.
Extended equalisation control
The EQ section, derived from the RPQ3, features sweepable low- and high-frequency controls with ±20 dB of boost or cut. Dual-concentric potentiometers keep controls compact, while centre detents and in/out switching enable precise and repeatable adjustments to shape the frequency spectrum.
Ultra-high input impedance
With an ultra-high 68 kΩ input impedance (phantom power disengaged), the RPQ503 allows passive ribbon and dynamic microphones to operate without tonal loading, preserving their full frequency response and transient detail.
Versatile signal path integration
A mic/line input switch allows seamless use in both recording and mixing chains, with the line input bypassing the mic preamp stage for direct processing. Additional features include +48V phantom power for condenser microphones and a polarity switch for phase management.
Handcrafted reliability
Handbuilt in the USA, the RPQ503 combines robust engineering with refined design, delivering open, transparent, and musical performance across applications. Compact in a single 500 Series slot, it integrates powerful gain, high headroom, and advanced EQ into one versatile module.
- 500 Series, 1-slot preamplifier
- 3rd generation AEA preamp circuitry
- 7–85 dB of clean gain
- Ultra-high 68 kΩ input impedance
- Sweepable LF/HF EQ with ±20 dB boost/cut
- Mic/line input switching with phantom and polarity options
- Handcrafted in the USA


- UK over £99 FREE
- UK under £99 £10
- EU £36
- Rest of World £80
Large/Heavy items: Extra charges may apply (e.g., consoles, large monitors). We’ll contact you before processing if so.
We ship with DPD and UPS across the UK, EU and worldwide. Same-day within the M25 is available depending on stock from £48.
At KMR, we provide exceptional support for all your audio studio requirements. Our committed team is ready to help you with setup, troubleshooting, and optimizing your gear for peak performance.
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