Knif Audio V804 Pre – 2 Channel

Knif Audio V804 Pre 2 Channel is a high-end vacuum tube microphone preamplifier that delivers ultra-low noise, high headroom and high gain through a refined two stage pentode design with Lundahl transformers and an optional ultra-low capacitance DI input.

Classic Pentode Heritage with Modern Engineering

The V804 Pre 2 Channel draws on the distinctive West German pentode designs of the 1950s while Knif elevates the architecture with contemporary components and meticulous construction. The input stage centres on the celebrated Telefunken EF804S NOS pentode paired with a high step-up ratio Lundahl transformer so the preamplifier captures exceptional detail, tonal depth and low noise. This combination preserves the immediacy of vintage valve circuits while ensuring stability, bandwidth and accuracy suitable for modern recording.

Dual Stage Tube Topology

Knif employs two carefully tuned pentode stages to achieve very high gain and flawless linearity. The first stage uses the EF804S to produce minimal self noise, while the second stage uses an SQ grade E180F pentode to add definition and subtle richness. A Lundahl output transformer with a silicon iron core connects the amplifier to the external world so the unit gains gentle thickness and smoothness in the upper register while maintaining controlled low frequencies and fast transient behaviour.

Stepped Gain and Precision Control

The V804 Pre 2 Channel offers 4 dB gain increments through an Elma rotary switch which allows exact level setting without drift. The lowest gain settings activate an automatic 20 dB pad, keeping the input handling clean even with high-output microphones or loud sources. Knif removes electrolytic capacitors from the signal path so transients remain open and uncompressed, preserving the natural behaviour of both microphones and instruments.

Optional DI Input for Hi-Z Sources

Knif supplies the optional DI with a remarkably low 15 pF input capacitance, equivalent to about one foot of premium instrument cable. This vanishingly small load preserves treble detail and articulation from guitars and other Hi-Z signals so the user retrieves extended top end without smear or loss of clarity.

Performance Profile

The V804 Pre 2 Channel achieves noise performance comparable to the finest solid-state preamplifiers while providing the harmonic complexity, dimensionality and headroom associated with high-voltage pentode circuits. Its minimalist architecture incorporates a level of refinement rarely seen in valve units, resulting in a microphone preamplifier capable of outstanding detail and musicality.

Why Choose Knif V804 Pre 2 Channel

• It enhances recordings with the depth and clarity of a premium valve circuit without raising noise levels.

• It provides classic pentode tone in a stable modern format suited to demanding studio environments.

• It brings natural musical weight while preserving transient precision and openness.

• It elevates guitars and Hi-Z sources thanks to an exceptionally transparent DI input.

• It offers a compact two channel solution ideal for mastering-grade tracking and high-end project studios.

• Two channel high-end vacuum tube microphone preamplifier
• Minimalist two stage pentode design
• Telefunken EF804S NOS pentode input stage
• SQ grade E180F pentode second stage
• Lundahl input and output transformers with silicon iron core
• Very low noise and very high headroom
• 4 dB stepped gain via Elma rotary switch
• Automatic 20 dB pad on lowest gain steps
• No electrolytic capacitors in the signal path
• Optional ultra-low capacitance 15 pF DI input

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.