Dual Channel Microphone; Line Preamplifier

The RDL RU-MLA2T is a two-channel audio preamplifier designed to handle microphone- or line-level signals across two channels. Channels A and B can operate as a stereo pair or as two separate mono channels. Front-panel XLR input and output jacks provide direct signal access, while detachable rear terminal blocks support an alternative connection method. Input mode, microphone gain, phantom functionality, and output level are switch-selectable, with individual front-panel gain trim for each channel.

Ideal Use Cases

The RU-MLA2T is suited to audio systems that need to accommodate microphone and line sources without dedicating separate preamplifiers to each signal type. Its two-channel architecture supports a stereo source or two independent mono signals. It is also a practical choice when users need convenient front-panel XLR connections, detachable rear-panel terminal blocks, or both connection formats within the same system.

Switch-selectable mic or line inputs allow each installation to be configured around the connected sources. Each output can also be switched between microphone and line level, making the unit adaptable to downstream equipment with different input requirements. Selectable microphone gain ranges help accommodate varying microphone signal levels.

Why Choose This Model

The defining advantage of the RU-MLA2T is its combination of dual-channel operation and configurable signal levels. Rear-panel switches select microphone or line operation for the inputs, while microphone gain and phantom functionality are also switch-selectable. Front-panel gain trim gives each channel its own level adjustment instead of applying one shared control across both channels.

Connection flexibility is equally important. Both inputs and both outputs are available through front-panel XLR jacks and detachable terminal blocks on the rear. This arrangement supports direct access from the front while retaining detachable rear connections for integrated wiring.

Installation and Integration

The RU-MLA2T requires a ground-referenced 24 Vdc supply at 80 mA. The recommended power supplies are the PS-24AS for the USA and the PS-24AX for international use; the power supply is not included. The specified ambient operating range is 0°C to 55°C.

Input mode is selected from the rear panel. For each channel, the installer can select microphone or line input operation, choose the applicable microphone gain setting, and configure phantom functionality. Each output is independently switch-selectable for microphone- or line-level operation. The front-panel gain trims then provide one adjustable control per channel for final input-level setting.

The product ships in a cardboard box with package dimensions of 6 x 6 x 2.625 inches. Its listed shipping weight is 1.93 pounds, and its WEEE weight is 1.695 pounds.

Performance Highlights

For a +4 dBu output, the listed microphone input ranges are 48 dBu to -3 dBu in low-gain mode and -65 dBu to -20 dBu in high-gain mode. The specified line input range is 15 dBu to +28 dBu. Both outputs have a balanced impedance of 150 Ω.

THD+N is specified at less than 0.1% for microphone operation and less than 0.005% for line operation. Common-mode rejection ratio is greater than 60 dB in microphone mode and greater than 50 dB in line mode. The unit provides more than 20 dB of headroom above a +4 dBu line output. Together, these published figures define the RU-MLA2T’s operating performance for both supported input modes.

What Makes It Different

The RU-MLA2T brings several configuration points into one two-channel preamplifier: microphone or line inputs, selectable microphone gain, selectable phantom functionality, individual gain trims, and microphone- or line-level outputs. Its channels can be used for stereo or dual-mono operation, so the same model can serve paired signals or two separate audio paths.

The availability of XLR and detachable terminal-block connections on both the input and output sides further distinguishes its integration options. Users are not limited to one connector format or one access point when configuring the two signal channels.

Final Assessment

The RDL RU-MLA2T is a configurable choice for systems requiring two channels of microphone or line preamplification. It combines stereo or dual-mono operation with front XLR access, rear detachable terminal blocks, per-channel gain trim, selectable microphone gain and phantom functionality, and switchable microphone or line outputs. Its documented distortion, common-mode rejection, headroom, power, and operating-temperature specifications provide clear parameters for system planning and integration.