sE Electronics DM2 BLACK Inline Microphone Preamp

The sE Electronics DM2 BLACK is an active inline microphone preamp designed to raise the output of passive dynamic and passive ribbon microphones. It installs directly between the microphone and a mic preamp, mixer, or audio interface. It is intended for situations where a passive microphone needs more clean level before the receiving preamp.

Two selectable gain settings provide either +15 dB or +30 dB of boost. This lets users choose a moderate level increase for louder sources or additional gain for quieter voices and instruments. The DM2 requires 48V phantom power from the connected preamp, mixer, or interface to operate.

The DM2 TNT design includes eight selectable load settings spanning 50 ohms to 10 megaohms. This adjustment allows the preamp's input load to be matched to different passive microphones and used to explore their response. sE Electronics recommends beginning around 1.5k to 2.7k ohms with many typical mic preamps and audio interfaces.

A Class-A circuit with selected FETs and a dedicated output buffer is used for signal amplification. The buffer provides a low-impedance output intended to support longer balanced XLR cable runs while helping reduce susceptibility to RF interference, buzz, and hum. Its published frequency range extends from 10 Hz to 120 kHz at -0.3 dB.

The DM2 BLACK uses a slim all-metal body with a matte-black finish, making it suitable for studio, broadcast, podcast, and stage signal chains. Gold-plated 3-pin XLR connections provide direct microphone input and balanced output connectivity. It is not for condenser microphones or active ribbon microphones, which require phantom power at the microphone itself.

Key Features

• Selectable Gain: Choose +15 dB or +30 dB of inline gain.
• Eight Load Settings: Adjust input loading from 50 ohms to 10 megaohms.
• Passive Mic Compatibility: Designed for passive dynamic and passive ribbon microphones.
• Class-A FET Circuit: Provides active gain with a transformerless design.
• Dedicated Output Buffer: Delivers a low-impedance balanced output for connected preamps.
• 48V Phantom Powered: Draws operating power from a P48-equipped mic input.

Design & Installation

The DM2 BLACK has a 19 mm diameter all-metal housing with a matte-black finish. Its gold-plated 3-pin XLR connectors are integrated into the inline body, with a female XLR microphone input and male XLR output. The compact format measures 96 mm long and weighs 80 g.

Connect the DM2 directly to the output of a passive dynamic or passive ribbon microphone, then connect its output to a balanced XLR mic input on a preamp, mixer, or audio interface. Turn on 48V phantom power at the receiving mic input, and use a miniature screwdriver to set gain and load as needed. Do not use it with condenser microphones or active ribbon microphones.