Used Wes Audio Due-Pre

The WesAudio DUE-Pre is a dual-character 500 Series discrete microphone and instrument preamplifier that delivers up to 64dB of gain through Carnhill input and output transformers, offering both classic British and vintage American tonalities, transformer saturation control, high headroom performance, and precision-matched gain staging for professional recording applications.

Overview

WesAudio designed the DUE-Pre to provide two of the most sought-after analogue preamp characters within a single 500 Series module. The RED mode captures the punch, presence and harmonic richness associated with classic British console preamps, while the GREEN mode delivers the smooth, rounded response and musical warmth often linked to vintage American designs. Engineers can switch instantly between both circuits, making the DUE-Pre a highly versatile front-end for vocals, instruments, drums and line-level sources.

Dual Analogue Personalities

The DUE-Pre combines two distinct analogue signal paths that provide markedly different sonic signatures. RED mode emphasises forward midrange detail, enhanced harmonic content and transformer-driven character that suits modern rock, pop and aggressive vocal recordings. GREEN mode introduces a smoother response with a fuller low-end and a more relaxed top-end presentation, making it ideal for acoustic instruments, jazz recordings and vintage-inspired productions.

Carnhill Transformer Architecture

High-quality Carnhill transformers sit at both the input and output stages, contributing depth, weight and musical harmonic saturation. These transformers help shape the characteristic sound of each preamp mode while maintaining excellent signal integrity and dynamic performance. Engineers can drive the transformers harder to introduce additional colour and analogue richness when required.

Transformer Saturation Control

The integrated 20dB input pad and 8dB output pad allow greater control over transformer and preamp saturation. By engaging these pads, users can increase gain within the circuit while maintaining manageable output levels. This approach enables a broad range of tonal options, from clean amplification to rich transformer saturation and harmonic enhancement.

Precision Gain Control

A premium Grayhill stepped gain switch provides accurate and repeatable gain adjustments across the entire 64dB gain range. WesAudio matches the gain stages to within 0.5dB, ensuring consistency between settings and maintaining precise stereo operation when using multiple units.

Microphone and Instrument Connectivity

The front-panel auto-sensing XLR microphone input simplifies connection workflows and automatically prioritises front-panel microphone sources. A high-impedance FET-based DI input accommodates guitars, basses, synthesisers and other instruments. Unlike many DI stages, the signal passes through the input transformer, preserving the analogue character of the DUE-Pre even when recording instruments directly.

Professional Studio Features

The DUE-Pre includes switchable 48V phantom power for condenser microphones and active DI sources, alongside a polarity reverse function for correcting phase relationships in multi-microphone recording setups. A front-panel LED VU meter provides immediate visual feedback of signal levels, helping engineers optimise gain structure and avoid overload.

Performance Specifications

The DUE-Pre operates with a 1200-ohm input impedance and 600-ohm output impedance, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of microphones and studio equipment. RED mode delivers a maximum output level of +27dBu, while GREEN mode reaches +23dBu. The unit maintains a minimum THD figure of just 0.005%, combining analogue character with excellent technical performance. Power consumption remains efficient at up to 5W.

Why Choose the WesAudio DUE-Pre

• Access two legendary analogue preamp styles from a single 500 Series module.
• Shape recordings with authentic British or American-inspired tonal character.
• Add musical transformer saturation without sacrificing output control.
• Capture vocals, instruments and microphones through premium Carnhill transformers.
• Achieve repeatable gain settings with precision stepped controls.
• Record guitars and basses directly while retaining transformer colour and depth.
• Integrate easily into professional 500 Series studio environments.
• Benefit from high headroom performance and exceptionally low distortion.

• Dual-mode discrete microphone and instrument preamplifier
• RED mode with classic British-inspired sonic character
• GREEN mode with vintage American-inspired sonic character
• 500 Series format
• Carnhill input transformer
• Carnhill output transformer
• Up to 64dB of gain
• Grayhill stepped gain switch
• Gain matching accuracy within 0.5dB
• 20dB input pad
• 8dB output pad
• Variable transformer and preamp saturation capability
• Front-panel auto-sensing XLR microphone input
• High-impedance FET DI input
• DI signal passes through input transformer
• Polarity reverse switch
• Switchable +48V phantom power
• LED VU meter
• 1200-ohm input impedance
• 600-ohm output impedance
• Maximum output level of +27dBu in RED mode
• Maximum output level of +23dBu in GREEN mode
• Minimum THD of 0.005%
• Power consumption up to 5W

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.