Arrakis ARC-MIC-PRE 2 Channel Microphone Preamplifier

A 2 Channel Mic Preamp That Expands Any ARC Console The Arrakis ARC-MIC-PRE is a 2 channel microphone preamplifier built to connect directly to the balanced RJ45 line inputs on an ARC series console, converting two standard line inputs into proper mic level inputs. This gives a station a straightforward way to add mic capacity to a board without replacing the console or rewiring the studio from scratch. It's designed specifically for the ARC-5, ARC-8, and ARC-10 series consoles, making it a natural fit for stations that already own one of these boards and need more microphone channels than the console originally shipped with. Because it uses the same RJ45 ethernet connection standard as the rest of the ARC line, installation is a matter of connecting the preamp to an existing line input rather than performing custom wiring work. For stations expanding from a two-host format to a panel discussion, or simply running out of mic inputs during a busy show, the ARC-MIC-PRE is a direct, cost effective way to solve that specific problem. How The ARC-MIC-PRE Converts Line Inputs Into Mic Inputs Microphones and line level sources operate at very different signal levels, which is why a console's line inputs generally can't accept a microphone directly without some form of preamplification in between. The ARC-MIC-PRE sits in that gap, taking a mic level signal and boosting it to line level before it reaches the console's RJ45 input, effectively turning two of a station's existing line channels into usable mic channels. This means a station doesn't need to physically modify the console itself or add a separate standalone mixer just to get more microphones working. Because the preamp connects using the same RJ45 ethernet output the console already expects, there's no adapter or unusual wiring involved, just a direct connection into an available line input. Straightforward Installation For Expanding Studio Capacity Setting up the ARC-MIC-PRE is designed to be simple, since it connects directly to a balanced RJ45 input on the console using the same connector standard used throughout the ARC series. This means a station doesn't need specialized tools or a dedicated technician to add the preamp to an existing setup, since the installation follows the same wiring pattern staff are likely already familiar with from other ARC accessories. For stations planning a studio expansion, whether that's adding a permanent co-host position or setting up a temporary panel for a special broadcast, this ease of installation matters because it keeps the upgrade from turning into a larger project than it needs to be. The preamp is a targeted solution to a specific need, rather than a piece of equipment that requires reworking other parts of the studio to accommodate it. Important Considerations For Condenser Microphone Use Stations planning to use condenser microphones with the ARC-MIC-PRE need to be aware that the preamp requires its own separate ARC-48V Phantom Power Supply, since it doesn't include phantom power internally. This is a distinct requirement from the console itself, so stations should factor in this additional accessory if condenser mics are part of the plan rather than assuming phantom power will already be available through the preamp. Dynamic microphones, which don't require phantom power to operate, can be used with the ARC-MIC-PRE without needing this additional purchase. Getting this detail right before installation avoids a situation where a station adds the preamp expecting full condenser mic support only to discover an additional accessory is needed to actually power those microphones. A Practical Upgrade Path Without Console Replacement The ARC-MIC-PRE gives stations a way to grow mic capacity over time rather than needing to predict every future studio need at the time of the original console purchase. This matters for stations that start with a simple host and guest format but later expand into panel discussions, additional co-hosts, or multi-person remote broadcasts. Rather than replacing an ARC-5, ARC-8, or ARC-10 console entirely to get more mic inputs, a station can add this preamp and repurpose existing line inputs for the additional microphones needed. This keeps the original console investment intact while still allowing the studio's capabilities to expand as programming needs change.