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Versatile Sonic Capabilities
The Locomotive Audio Model 86B-2 provides a broad range of sound textures, from crystal-clear highs to rich, tube-driven warmth, suitable for various recording needs.
The Locomotive Audio Model 86B-2 is a dual-channel tube mic/Line preamp and instrument inspired by classic 1950’s American-style tube circuitry.
The Locomotive Audio Model 86B-2 offers a vast sonic palette for engineers and producers to explore, from bright vocals and well-defined acoustics to powerful drums and natural tube warmth.
An update to their original 286A, introduced in 2014 as a modernised version of the Ampex 601 "suitcase tape recorder”, the 86B-2 boasts a pentode EF86 and dual triode 12AY7 and super Premium MuMetal transformers. It also includes separate line and mic inputs and a much higher DI input impedance.
The 86B-2 is designed to process audio with various tonal colourations. The two-knob system enables the engineer to fine-tune the type of character needed. Using this preamp, you can add tube-like warmth or drive it to create overdriven distortion, for example.
The 86B-2 is equipped with a 20dB pad, 100Hz high-pass filter, two mic input impedances, line-level mode and high impedance front panel DI on each channel.
As with other Locomotive Audio units, the 86B-2 comes with a lifetime warranty with parts and labour.
- Microphone and high impedance instrument inputs
- One EF86 & one 12AY7 per channel
- 4-Position Input Switch: 500 Ω & 1.8K Ω Mic, 10k Ω Line, 1.6meg Ω
- Polarity reverse switch
- 20 dB pad switch
- 100 Hz low cut filter switch
- DI on for each channel
- +48 V phantom power
- XLR mic input, line input and line output connections
- Premium input and output transformers
- Wima polypropylene capacitors in signal path
- Built in USA
- Heavy 16 gauge steel chassis
- 115 V/230 V AC mains option on rear
- Backed by lifetime warranty parts and labour, excluding tubes
- UK over £99 FREE
- Same Day (M25) £48 stock dependent
- 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.
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.
If you face any challenges, our customer service team is just a phone call away, prepared to offer expert assistance.
KEY FEATURES
Advanced Tube Circuitry
Updated from the original 286A, this preamp features a pentode EF86 and dual triode 12AY7 tubes with super Premium MuMetal transformers, ensuring superior sound quality.
Comprehensive Control System
Equipped with a two-knob setup for precise tonal adjustment, the 86B-2 allows users to effortlessly switch between clean articulation and aggressive tube saturation.