sE Electronics DM2 TNT Inline Microphone Preamp

The sE Electronics DM2 TNT is an active inline microphone preamp made to raise the output of passive dynamic and passive ribbon microphones before they reach a mixer, audio interface, or dedicated mic preamp. It is useful when a microphone needs more clean level than a connected preamp can comfortably provide on its own. The compact DM2 installs directly in the microphone signal path with standard XLR connections.

Two selectable gain settings provide either +15 dB or +30 dB of boost, allowing the unit to suit a range of voice, instrument, broadcast, and live-sound sources. Its dedicated output buffer is designed to maintain consistent gain regardless of the connected load. This helps provide a strong, manageable signal to the following mic preamp.

The DM2 TNT also provides eight selectable load settings spanning 50 ohms to 10 megaohms. This lets users match the unit more closely to a passive microphone and explore how loading affects its response. The controls are especially useful with microphones whose sound changes noticeably with different impedance loads.

Its Class-A circuit uses specially selected high-grade FETs and is designed for low-noise operation. The published frequency range extends from 10 Hz to 120 kHz, while the maximum output level is rated at 9.5 dBV at 0.5% THD. This makes the DM2 TNT a practical gain-stage addition where clean level and flexible loading are priorities.

The preamp requires 48V phantom power from the connected mixer, interface, or mic preamp, but it is intended only for passive microphones. It does not pass phantom power to the microphone, making it appropriate for passive ribbon microphones as well as passive dynamic models. It should not be used with condenser microphones or active ribbon microphones that require phantom power themselves.

Key Features

• Dual Gain Settings: Select +15 dB or +30 dB of inline microphone gain.
• Eight Load Settings: Adjust loading from 50 ohms to 10 megaohms.
• Class-A FET Circuit: Provides a low-noise active gain stage for passive microphones.
• Dedicated Output Buffer: Supports consistent gain and low-impedance signal delivery.
• 48V Phantom Powered: Operates from P48 supplied by compatible downstream equipment.
• Gold-Plated XLR Connector: Provides durable three-pin microphone signal connections.

Design & Installation

The DM2 TNT uses a slim all-metal housing with a premium blue finish for regular studio, broadcast, and stage use. It measures 19 mm in diameter and 95.5 mm long, with a weight of 80 g. Gold-plated three-pin male and female XLR connections support an inline installation between the microphone and the downstream preamp.

Connect the DM2 directly to a passive dynamic or passive ribbon microphone, then connect its output to a mixer, audio interface, or mic preamp that supplies 48V phantom power. Use a miniature screwdriver to select the desired gain and load settings. For a starting point with many mixers and interfaces, the manufacturer recommends a load setting in the 1.5 kOhm to 2.7 kOhm range.