Wolff Audio Sunset Sound Tutti – 500 Series Microphone and Instrument Preamplifier
The Wolff Audio Sunset Sound Tutti is a premium 500 series microphone and instrument preamplifier developed in collaboration between Wolff Audio and the legendary Sunset Sound Recorders in Hollywood. Built around discrete dual 990 op amps and custom Cinemag nickel transformers, the Tutti delivers exceptional analog warmth, clarity, and headroom. Designed as a faithful recreation of the original Studio 1 console preamp, it offers more than 60 dB of gain, a wide frequency response from 10 Hz to 60 kHz, and minimal phase shift within the audible range, making it an ideal choice for professional recording studios seeking classic analog tone.
Inspired by the Legacy of Tutti Camarata
The Sunset Sound Tutti preamp pays tribute to Tutti Camarata, founder of Sunset Sound and a pioneering figure in recording technology. The original circuit was developed for the famous Studio 1 console at Sunset Sound, which played a role in countless iconic recordings.
For this modern version, Paul Wolff collaborated with Paul Camarata, Tutti’s son, to carefully recreate the original circuit design with modern precision manufacturing. To maintain the authentic sonic signature, transformer designer David Geren of Cinemag, who worked on the original units, was commissioned again to produce the same style of custom nickel input and output transformers used in the original console.
The result is a modern 500 series preamp that preserves the tone and character of the original Sunset Sound design while meeting the reliability standards of contemporary studios.
Discrete Analog Design with Cinemag Transformers
The Tutti preamp features dual discrete 990 operational amplifiers paired with custom Cinemag nickel input and output transformers, delivering the rich harmonic detail and depth associated with classic analog console designs.
Key performance features include:
More than 60 dB of microphone gain
Continuously variable output fader from infinity to 65 dB
Extremely wide frequency response from 10 Hz to 60 kHz
Minimal phase shift within the usable frequency range
Less than 0.03 percent distortion below 100 Hz
Clip onset at +28 dBu for excellent headroom
This combination provides transparent amplification with the subtle harmonic character engineers expect from high end analog preamps.
Flexible Inputs for Microphones and Instruments
The Wolff Audio Tutti 500 series preamp is designed to handle a wide range of recording sources. The front panel includes a microphone input with switchable impedance, allowing selection between 150 ohms and 1500 ohms for optimal compatibility with different microphones.
A high impedance TRS instrument input rated at 100k ohms makes the unit equally suitable for direct recording of guitars, basses, and keyboards.
Phantom power is implemented through a noise free switching system, eliminating the audible pops that can occur when activating phantom power on traditional circuits.
Precise Level Control with Variable Output Fader
Unlike many traditional 500 series microphone preamps, the Tutti includes a fully variable output fader, allowing engineers to precisely control output level while driving the preamp for desired tonal character.
This design provides additional flexibility when recording dynamic sources, enabling engineers to shape gain staging without sacrificing headroom or clarity.
Built for Professional Studio Environments
The Sunset Sound Tutti preamp is built with high quality components and a straightforward analog signal path designed for long term reliability. Its efficient circuit draws less than 100 milliamps per rail, ensuring stable performance in standard 500 series racks and power supplies.
Every component has been selected to preserve the authentic sonic characteristics of the original Sunset Sound Studio 1 console while delivering the consistency and durability required in modern recording studios.
A Classic Console Sound in the 500 Series Format
The Wolff Audio Sunset Sound Tutti captures the tone and engineering philosophy behind one of the most respected recording consoles in music history. Combining discrete analog circuitry, custom transformers, wide frequency response, and exceptional headroom, it provides engineers with the warmth, depth, and clarity that defined countless classic recordings.
For studios seeking the sound of legendary Sunset Sound recordings in a compact 500 series microphone preamp, the Tutti offers an authentic and powerful solution.
- Discrete Dual 990 Op-Amps for high-fidelity amplification and superior signal integrity.
- Custom Dual Cinemag Nickel I/O Transformers to replicate the warmth and character of the original design.
- Over 60dB of Gain with Clip Onset at +28dBu, providing exceptional headroom and dynamic range.
- Flat Frequency Response from 10Hz to 60kHz with minimal phase shift for accurate sound reproduction.
- Phantom Power Selection System that eliminates switching noise for seamless operation.
- Front Panel Mic Input (150/1500 Ohm) and TRS (100K Ohm) Input for versatile connectivity.
- Ultra-Low Distortion (<0.03% Below 100Hz) ensuring pristine audio quality with rich harmonic detail.
