The Cloud Microphones True Blue 520 Stereo Pair combines two True Blue 520 500 Series microphone preamps to create a high-performance two-channel front end ideal for stereo recording, matched microphone pairs, dual-mono sources, and critical tracking applications. Developed in collaboration with TRUE Systems founder Tim Spencer, the 520 builds on the proven preamp architecture behind the TRUE Systems Precision 8, delivering exceptional clarity, low noise, high headroom, and wide bandwidth with an emphasis on musical accuracy and true-to-source reproduction.
 
Each True Blue 520 provides up to 76 dB of microphone gain, giving the pair ample gain for everything from condenser and tube microphones to low-output dynamics and ribbons. With phantom power disengaged, each channel automatically operates in its dedicated Dynamic/Ribbon mode, increasing the microphone input impedance to 10 kΩ and removing the input coupling capacitors from the signal path. Fully balanced, rail-to-rail circuit topology provides excellent rejection of external noise and interference while maintaining extremely low distortion and up to +28 dBu maximum output level.
 
Used as a stereo pair, the True Blue 520s are particularly well suited for stereo microphone techniques on drum overheads, acoustic instruments, piano, ensembles, room microphones, and other sources where consistency between channels is essential. Precision 0.1% resistors and detented gain controls help provide excellent channel-to-channel consistency while making stereo settings easy to match and recall.
 
Each channel features Cloud's illuminated Touch-Control interface with capacitive controls and internal relay switching for short, clean signal paths and clear visual indication of operating status. Cloud's Blink-Delay safety feature helps prevent accidental engagement of both 48V phantom power and the +16 dB High-Gain mode.
 
Continuously variable, detented high-pass filters provide independent adjustment from 25 Hz to 420 Hz at 6 dB/octave, allowing precise control of rumble, proximity effect, plosives, and low-frequency buildup on each side of a stereo recording. With the filters disengaged, frequency response extends down to 6 Hz.
 
Both modules also include front-panel FET instrument DIs with 1 MΩ input impedance and dedicated THRU connections, allowing the pair to serve as a high-quality dual-channel DI for stereo keyboards, synthesizers, instrument rigs, or two independent sources. Additional features on each channel include polarity inversion, four-level signal metering, and detented gain control for accurate, repeatable settings.
 
Designed and built in the USA, a stereo pair of Cloud Microphones True Blue 520 preamps provides two channels of exceptionally clean, consistent amplification in a compact 500 Series format, making it an excellent choice for demanding stereo recording as well as everyday dual-channel tracking.