Modular Audio Equipment Producer AEA Launches RPQ503 Preamplifier and Snaqbox Chassis for Superior Sound Quality
The Audio Engineering Associates (AEA) has announced two new additions to their 500 Series lineup: the RPQ503 500 Series preamp and EQ module, and the Snaqbox 500 Series chassis.
The AEA RPQ503 500 Series preamp and EQ module is a 1-space 500 Series mic preamp that combines AEA's third-generation preamp circuitry with an expanded EQ section. With an ultra-high input impedance of 68 kΩ (phantom power off) and 11.3 kΩ (phantom on), the RPQ503 offers 7 to 85 dB of clean gain.
The module features sweepable low shelf (40–675 Hz) and high bell (2.5–30 kHz) EQ with ±20 dB boost/cut, bypassable, and dual-concentric potentiometers with center-detented gain pots. Additional features include +48V phantom power, mic/line input switching, polarity (phase invert) switch, and EQ in/out switch. The RPQ503 boasts extremely low EIN (-130 dBu, 40 Ω source) and very low THD+N (0.0018% at 1 kHz).
The RPQ503 is designed for transparent, natural ribbon-mic optimized sound, making it suitable for vocal and instrument sources. Priced at around $749, the module is praised for its ultra-low noise, low distortion, and high input impedance optimized for passive ribbon microphones yet compatible with other mics, delivering detailed and rich signal clarity with flexible EQ shaping right at the preamp stage.
The AEA Snaqbox 500 Series chassis is a compact, rugged, and portable 2-slot 500 Series rack designed for powering and housing 500 Series modules. The Snaqbox features an external switching power supply providing +16V/150mA, -16V/150mA, and +48V/13mA per slot, with internal dual linear regulators for each slot to ensure complete power isolation and minimize noise between modules.
The Snaqbox's durable steel frame is accompanied by clear (or fluorescent orange optional) acrylic side panels, offering a visual window into the modules. Connectivity includes Neutrik XLR input/output connectors. A link/cascade switch allows internal routing of channel 1 output to channel 2 input, disconnecting channel 2 XLR input to enable combined processing chains without external cabling, while still providing dry and wet outputs.
The Snaqbox's power isolation and build quality are highlighted for preserving signal integrity across connected 500 Series modules, providing a flexible and noise-free modular environment. Priced at $299, the Snaqbox is a practical yet expressive tool for customizing the signal path, compatible with AEA's ribbon-optimized preamps and third-party gear.
In summary, the AEA RPQ503 and Snaqbox provide a flexible, high-quality front-end preamp and modular housing solution optimized mainly for ribbon mic use but versatile for other recording needs. The RPQ503 delivers a rich, natural sound and clean, high-gain performance, while the Snaqbox ensures complete power isolation between modules to preserve signal integrity.
The additional 500 Series preamp and EQ module by AEA, named RPQ503, boasts ultra-low noise and low distortion, optimized for passive ribbon microphones but compatible with various gadgets, ensuring a detailed and rich signal clarity with flexible EQ shaping right at the preamp stage. When paired with the AEA Snaqbox 500 Series chassis, recording studios gain a noise-free modular environment, thanks to its power isolation and build quality, which preserves signal integrity across connected modules. With technology developments in data-and-cloud-computing, this setup is essential for contemporary sound recording, providing a practical yet expressive tool for customizing the signal path.
