Console sound. Single channel focus. Pure analog control.

Console grade. Ultra high headroom.

The Wolff Audio W1 is not inspired by our consoles — it is our console microphone preamp, precision-engineered into a single-channel 500-series module.

Designed by legendary engineer Paul Wolff, the W1 delivers the exact transformer topology, gain structure, and relay-controlled signal path found in Wolff Audio’s flagship large-format recording consoles — now in a compact format that fits any 500-series rack.

No compromises. No scaled-down circuitry. Just true console architecture made accessible.

The Same w8 From the console

True Console DNA in a 500-Series Format

At the heart of the W1 is the same analog signal path trusted in world-class studios:
Custom Cinemag input and output transformers

● Fully relay-controlled signal switching

● Socketed op-amp design for easy customization

● Dual-stage gain architecture for precision control

Every critical function — gain, pad, phantom power, and line switching — is relay controlled to maintain signal integrity and long-term reliability.

The result is unmistakable:
depth, punch, harmonic richness, and authority that only true console circuitry delivers.

With Massive Headroom. Zero-Compromise Tone.

The W1 operates at significantly lower baseline gain than conventional microphone preamps — a design choice that dramatically increases usable headroom while preserving transformer loading and impedance relationships.

In zero-gain mode:
-Transformer is padded 10 dB
-Op-amp runs at unity
-Overall level sits roughly 20 dB lower than typical mic pres

This means you can capture extremely loud sources without external pads — and without sacrificing tone.

Put a dynamic mic inches from a snare drum. Track aggressive guitar cabinets. Record powerful vocalists at full intensity.

The sound stays big, controlled, and musical.

Padded Transformer

Overall level sits roughly 20 dB lower than typical mic pres

Drive the Tone. Control the Output.

The W1’s dual-stage architecture gives engineers complete command of gain staging. Gain selectable in 10 dB steps up to 50 dB Additional ±6 dB trim control Dedicated output fader positioned between gain stages Maximum gain of approximately 56 dB This design allows you to drive the input transformers and preamp circuitry for character — while independently controlling output level to your converters. No impedance issues. No unwanted overload. No compromises. Just pure tonal control.

Built for Performance

Key Highlights

✔ Exact mic pre from Wolff large-format consoles

✔ Custom Cinemag transformer topology

✔ Fully relay-controlled signal path

✔ Ultra-high headroom design

✔ Dual-stage gain architecture with output fader

✔ Socketed op-amp for customization

✔ Console-derived LED metering

✔ Compact 500-series format

Upgrade Your Mic Pre to Wolff.

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