sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite Inline Microphone Preamp

The sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite is an active inline microphone preamp designed to raise the level of passive dynamic and passive ribbon microphones before the signal reaches a mixer, audio interface, or microphone preamp. It supplies a fixed 28 dB gain boost for microphones whose output may be too low for a preamp to handle comfortably. Its slim XLR inline form keeps the signal booster close to the microphone chain without requiring a separate desktop unit.

This preamp is intended for podcasters, recording musicians, broadcast users, and live-sound operators working with passive microphones. It can help provide more usable signal level from low-output dynamic or ribbon mics while allowing the downstream preamp to operate with less added gain. The DM1 requires a 48 V phantom-power source to operate, but it is not intended for condenser microphones or active ribbon microphones.

The DM1 is built around a Class-A, transformerless circuit with selected FET components. Its dedicated output buffer is designed to maintain its specified 28 dB gain across connected loads and provide a low-impedance output. This configuration is also intended to support longer balanced cable runs with reduced susceptibility to RF interference, buzz, and hum.

With a specified frequency range of 10 Hz to 120 kHz and an output-noise specification of 9 µV A-weighted, the DM1 is designed for a neutral, wide-bandwidth signal path. Its maximum output level is rated at 8.3 dBV at 0.5% THD. The result is a compact gain stage suited to preserving the working character of a compatible passive microphone rather than functioning as an EQ or tone-shaping device.

The DM1 fits between a passive microphone and a phantom-powered microphone input using standard 3-pin XLR connections. It is a useful upgrade path when a microphone setup needs more clean level but the existing interface or mixer has limited available gain. Because it is an active device, correct connection and stable 48 V phantom power from the receiving preamp, mixer, or interface are essential.

Key Features

• Fixed 28 dB Gain: Raises the signal level from compatible low-output passive microphones.
• Passive Mic Compatibility: Designed for passive dynamic and passive ribbon microphones.
• Class-A FET Circuit: Uses a transformerless Class-A design with selected FETs.
• Dedicated Output Buffer: Maintains consistent gain and supports long balanced cable runs.
• 48 V Phantom Powered: Draws operating power from a compatible phantom-powered microphone input.
• Gold-Plated XLR Connectors: Provides durable 3-pin male and female XLR connections.

Design & Installation

The DM1 uses a slim, rugged all-metal housing with a premium finish for studio, broadcast, and stage use. It measures 19 mm in diameter and 95.5 mm long, making it easy to place inline with an XLR microphone cable. Gold-plated XLR connectors provide the microphone-side and preamp-side connections.

Connect the passive dynamic or passive ribbon microphone to the DM1, then connect the DM1 to a balanced microphone input on a preamp, mixer, or audio interface that supplies 48 V phantom power. Turn on phantom power at the receiving input and set the downstream preamp gain for the desired level. Do not use the DM1 with condenser microphones or active ribbon microphones that require phantom power for their own operation.