} Useful Arts SFP-60 Dual Channel Tube Microphone Preamp — Pro Audio Reserve
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Useful Arts SFP-60 Dual Channel Tube Microphone Preamp

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$3,199.00
$2,999.00
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Description

Useful Arts SFP-60 Dual Channel Tube Microphone Preamp

Useful Arts SFP-60 Tube Preamp Demo

  Useful Arts SFP-60 dual channel tube microphone preamp

Clear, Present, and Forward Vocal Character

The sound of the Useful Arts SFP-60 is more clear, present, and edgy than dark and creamy, specifically designed to make vocals sound forward and intimate. This is accomplished by using tubes for what they are best at — accentuating harmonics that make sound more clear and pleasing to the ear in the real world.

Each channel features an EF-806 pentode input tube that adds third-order harmonic content contributing to the clarity and bite associated with great early radio recordings. The final two gain stages use high-current ECC82 triodes that contribute second-order harmonic components, adding richness and thickness to the sound without sounding dark. The pedestrian 12AX7 — wonderful in guitar amps but common in mass-market tube preamps — is nowhere to be found in the SFP-60.

 Useful Arts SFP-60 Color control variable harmonic distortion

Variable Color Control for Artistic Distortion

Unlike most preamps designed to maintain a predetermined ratio of distortion to gain, the SFP-60 puts the artistic choice of distortion directly in your hands. At a Color setting of zero, the preamp is very clean and sounds polite. At a setting of ten, it adds about 10 dB of gain and increases distortion artifacts by nearly ten times, resulting in an aggressive, full sound that stands out in a mix and grabs the listener's attention.

The character of harmonic distortion in the SFP-60 has a spectral effect that feels EQ-related but is completely different from equalization. While EQ filters give you more or less of what you put in (along with undesirable phase shifts), the preamp is actually adding signal that isn't present in the original — and every audio device ever made introduces distortion, so Useful Arts made it a good thing.

 Useful Arts SFP-60 transformer balanced inputs outputs

Over 60dB of Usable Gain With Maximum Headroom

The input and output levels of the triode stages in the SFP-60 are separately controllable by detented attenuators, and combined with the Color control, the SFP-60 provides just over 60 dB of usable gain. The high-voltage soft-start power supply delivers over 270 volts of clean, regulated power to ensure maximum headroom and the lowest noise floor possible.

Frequency response is flat within 2 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Each channel features transformer-balanced inputs and outputs using gold-plated XLR connectors, along with an op-amp buffered VU meter that ensures the signal is not loaded by the metering circuit. The audio power supply features a toroidal dual-primary transformer and linear regulation for lowest noise.

Highlights

  • Two-channel Class A tube preamp with single-ended design
  • EF-806 pentode input stages and dual ECC82 triode gain stages per channel
  • Variable Color control for adjustable harmonic distortion (polite to aggressive)
  • Over 60 dB of usable gain with maximum headroom
  • High-voltage soft-start power supply delivering over 270 volts
  • Transformer-balanced inputs and outputs with gold-plated XLR connectors
  • Sealed gold-plated relays for all switching functions (no signal passes through switches)
  • Dual front-panel instrument inputs and rear-panel XLR mic inputs
  • Switchable phantom power, pad, phase reverse, and high-pass filter per channel
  • VU meters per channel (op-amp buffered)
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum faceplate with laser-engraved markings
  • 2U rackmount design

Useful Arts SFP-60 Specifications

Specification Details
Preamp Type All-tube, single-ended Class A
Number of Channels 2
Tubes (Per Channel) 1 x JJ EF-806 pentode, 1 x JJ ECC82 triode
Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±2 dB
Usable Gain Over 60 dB (including Color knob engagement)
Power Supply Separate regulated DC supplies for filaments, phantom, and high voltage (270V+); toroidal dual-primary transformer with linear regulation
Phantom Power +48V switchable per channel
Input Pad -22 dB switchable per channel
High-Pass Filter Switchable per channel
Phase Reverse Switchable polarity reverse per channel
Color Control Variable harmonic distortion per channel (0-10)
Analog Inputs 2 x rear-panel XLR (mic), 2 x front-panel 1/4" (instrument)
Analog Outputs 2 x XLR (transformer-balanced line outputs)
Metering Dual VU meters (op-amp buffered)
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable (115/230V selectable)
Rack Spaces 2U
Construction 0.190" aircraft-grade aluminum faceplate (dark green anodized), fully modular design, gold-plated connectors, laser-engraved markings

What's in the Box

Included Items
Useful Arts SFP-60 Dual Channel Tube Microphone Preamp
Power Cable
User Documentation
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

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Description

Useful Arts SFP-60 Dual Channel Tube Microphone Preamp

Useful Arts SFP-60 Tube Preamp Demo

  Useful Arts SFP-60 dual channel tube microphone preamp

Clear, Present, and Forward Vocal Character

The sound of the Useful Arts SFP-60 is more clear, present, and edgy than dark and creamy, specifically designed to make vocals sound forward and intimate. This is accomplished by using tubes for what they are best at — accentuating harmonics that make sound more clear and pleasing to the ear in the real world.

Each channel features an EF-806 pentode input tube that adds third-order harmonic content contributing to the clarity and bite associated with great early radio recordings. The final two gain stages use high-current ECC82 triodes that contribute second-order harmonic components, adding richness and thickness to the sound without sounding dark. The pedestrian 12AX7 — wonderful in guitar amps but common in mass-market tube preamps — is nowhere to be found in the SFP-60.

 Useful Arts SFP-60 Color control variable harmonic distortion

Variable Color Control for Artistic Distortion

Unlike most preamps designed to maintain a predetermined ratio of distortion to gain, the SFP-60 puts the artistic choice of distortion directly in your hands. At a Color setting of zero, the preamp is very clean and sounds polite. At a setting of ten, it adds about 10 dB of gain and increases distortion artifacts by nearly ten times, resulting in an aggressive, full sound that stands out in a mix and grabs the listener's attention.

The character of harmonic distortion in the SFP-60 has a spectral effect that feels EQ-related but is completely different from equalization. While EQ filters give you more or less of what you put in (along with undesirable phase shifts), the preamp is actually adding signal that isn't present in the original — and every audio device ever made introduces distortion, so Useful Arts made it a good thing.

 Useful Arts SFP-60 transformer balanced inputs outputs

Over 60dB of Usable Gain With Maximum Headroom

The input and output levels of the triode stages in the SFP-60 are separately controllable by detented attenuators, and combined with the Color control, the SFP-60 provides just over 60 dB of usable gain. The high-voltage soft-start power supply delivers over 270 volts of clean, regulated power to ensure maximum headroom and the lowest noise floor possible.

Frequency response is flat within 2 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Each channel features transformer-balanced inputs and outputs using gold-plated XLR connectors, along with an op-amp buffered VU meter that ensures the signal is not loaded by the metering circuit. The audio power supply features a toroidal dual-primary transformer and linear regulation for lowest noise.

Highlights

  • Two-channel Class A tube preamp with single-ended design
  • EF-806 pentode input stages and dual ECC82 triode gain stages per channel
  • Variable Color control for adjustable harmonic distortion (polite to aggressive)
  • Over 60 dB of usable gain with maximum headroom
  • High-voltage soft-start power supply delivering over 270 volts
  • Transformer-balanced inputs and outputs with gold-plated XLR connectors
  • Sealed gold-plated relays for all switching functions (no signal passes through switches)
  • Dual front-panel instrument inputs and rear-panel XLR mic inputs
  • Switchable phantom power, pad, phase reverse, and high-pass filter per channel
  • VU meters per channel (op-amp buffered)
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum faceplate with laser-engraved markings
  • 2U rackmount design

Useful Arts SFP-60 Specifications

Specification Details
Preamp Type All-tube, single-ended Class A
Number of Channels 2
Tubes (Per Channel) 1 x JJ EF-806 pentode, 1 x JJ ECC82 triode
Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±2 dB
Usable Gain Over 60 dB (including Color knob engagement)
Power Supply Separate regulated DC supplies for filaments, phantom, and high voltage (270V+); toroidal dual-primary transformer with linear regulation
Phantom Power +48V switchable per channel
Input Pad -22 dB switchable per channel
High-Pass Filter Switchable per channel
Phase Reverse Switchable polarity reverse per channel
Color Control Variable harmonic distortion per channel (0-10)
Analog Inputs 2 x rear-panel XLR (mic), 2 x front-panel 1/4" (instrument)
Analog Outputs 2 x XLR (transformer-balanced line outputs)
Metering Dual VU meters (op-amp buffered)
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable (115/230V selectable)
Rack Spaces 2U
Construction 0.190" aircraft-grade aluminum faceplate (dark green anodized), fully modular design, gold-plated connectors, laser-engraved markings

What's in the Box

Included Items
Useful Arts SFP-60 Dual Channel Tube Microphone Preamp
Power Cable
User Documentation
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

Reviews

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
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(0)
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(0)
0%
(0)
0%
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