AEA RPQ503 Preamp & Snaqbox Chassis

AEA today announces the launch of the RPQ503, a 500 Series preamp and EQ module built on the third-generation circuitry of its celebrated RPQ3. Drawing on over 45 years of ribbon mic expertise and nearly three decades of in-house manufacturing, the RPQ503 delivers the rich, natural sound and clean, high-gain performance that engineers and artists have come to expect from AEA. Launching alongside the RPQ503 is the AEA Snaqbox, a portable and transparent two-channel 500 Series chassis. Both units will begin shipping on August 15 through AEA’s dealer network.

RPQ503 builds on the legacy of the RPQ500, introducing an expanded EQ section and refined circuitry designed for clean, responsive performance. AEA’s CurveShaper™ EQ offers sweepable high and low EQ controls with up to ±20 dB of boost or cut, allowing engineers to shape tone directly at the front end of the signal path. Even with extreme settings, the EQ maintains a natural, flattering character - ideal for enhancing vocals, instruments, or ambient recordings. With 85 dB of clean gain and an ultra-high 68 kΩ input impedance, the RPQ503 is optimized for passive ribbon microphones while remaining fully compatible with dynamic and phantom-powered condenser mics.

“Our focus has always been on developing ultra-low noise, low-distortion preamps for those who demand high, clean gain,” said Julie Tan, CEO of AEA. “With the RPQ503, we’ve brought our best third-generation preamp design to the 500 Series format - making it a flexible and portable front-end for everything from intimate vocals to loud instruments.”

RPQ503 Specs:

• 1-space 500 Series preamp module
• AEA third-generation preamp circuitry
• Ultra-high 68 kΩ input impedance (phantom power off)
• 7 to 85 dB of gain
• Sweepable low- and high-frequency EQ
• ±20 dB EQ boost/cut
• EQ in/out switching with center-detented gain pots
• +48V phantom power
• Polarity (phase invert) switch
• Mic/line input switching (line input bypasses mic pre)
• Dimensions (W×D×H): 1.5” × 6.8” × 5.2” (3.8 × 17.3 × 13.3 cm)
• Weight: 12 oz (0.34 kg)
• Price: $749

​Built with separate linear regulators for each slot, the Snaqbox ensures complete power isolation between modules — preserving signal integrity across any configuration. Its rugged steel frame and clear or fluorescent acrylic side panels provide a visual window into the 500 Series signal chain, while the LINK/CASCADE switch enables internal routing between channels without the need for external cabling. Compact and durable, the Snaqbox is well-suited for use in studios, mobile setups, and live performance environments.

Compatible with all standard 500 Series modules, the Snaqbox supports a wide range of workflows — from housing AEA’s ribbon-optimized preamps to integrating third-party gear. Its compact form offers engineers and artists a practical yet expressive tool for customizing their signal path.

Snaqbox Specs:

• 2-slot 500 Series chassis
• Durable steel housing with clear or fluorescent orange acrylic side panels
• XLR input and output
• LINK/CASCADE switch for internal signal routing
• External switching power supply
• Compatible with all standard 500 Series modules
• Power per slot: +16V @ 150mA, –16V @ 150mA, +48V phantom @ 13mA
• Dimensions (L×W×H): 7.4” × 3.3” × 5.9”
• Unit weight: 2.2 lb (998 g)
• Shipping weight: 4.6 lb (2.1 kg)
• Price: $299

www.aearibbonmics.com