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Rane AP-13 Acoustic Preamplifier - UsedType: UsedCondition: Very Good
Used Rane AP-13 in very good condition. The Rane AP-13 was manufactured in Mukilteo, Washington and released in 1992.Dedicated to the needs of the acoustic musician, the AP 13 Acoustic Preamplifier is a full-featured package specifically suited for instruments with two pickups. The AP 13 provides two signal processing paths: one optimized for piezo pickups and one for microphone pickups. The piezo path features very high input impedance for extended low bass response; while the mic processing channel offers two choices of phantom power voltages satisfing most electret condenser mic pickups. Additionally, either channel accepts dynamic pickups or line-level outputs from outboard preamps. A convenient front panel slide switch allows choice of which pickup is wired to the tip or the sleeve of the stereo 1/4" input jack. Handy Pickup Gain Trim controls feature large openings for quick changes using guitar picks, fingernails or coins. And separate pickup Overload indicators make gain set-up easy.Each pickup signal path contains an Invert switch, an adjustable Low Cut filter, a 7-band graphic equalizer, a Pan control and a separate Level amplifier, all logically arranged along the front panel using smooth-acting oil-damped sliders for the ultimate in convenience and graphical feedback. The Invert switch solves the annoying (and too common) problem of what to do with pickups wired out-of-phase. The sliding Low Cut filter helps eliminate troublesome thumping, rumbling, rubbing and other unwanted infrasonic frequencies. The graphic equalizers give you separate timbre control over each individual pickup. The Pan and Level controls mix both pickups into one smooth stereo signal ready to drive the Send/Return Effects Loop, or the in-line Inserts. Two pair of high-current cross-coupled balanced stereo line drivers, with Mono switch, complete the processing chain. Choose between the stereo 1/4" line-level outs for amplifier feed or the stereo XLR mic-level outs for direct console patching, or use them both.A powerful Headphone amplifier and Master Mute switch allow private auditioning and practice. The Tuner Output lets you leave your tuner attached for quick checks or changes during performance. When an auxiliary output is necessary, the separate Piezo Output with Level control perfectly satisfies the need.The AP 13 Acoustic Preamplifer is all you ever dreamed of for perfect control of your acoustic instrument.Advanced Preamp for Instruments Using Piezo & Mic PickupsSelectable Phantom Power Voltages for Condenser MicsSignal Processor for Each PickupLow Cut Filter 15-250 Hz7-Band Graphic EqualizerPhase Invert SwitchLevel & Pan ControlsStereo Send/Return and Insert LoopsSwitchable Tip/Ring Input WiringDirect Tuner and Piezo OutputsMain Output Muting with IndicatorMain Output Stereo/Mono SwitchFully Balanced Mic/Line Level OutputsStereo Headphone Amplifier
15-40 kHz Frequency Response0.03% THD + NoiseGreater than 70dB Crosstalk at 2 kHz+6 VDC or +15 VDC Mic Pickup Phantom Power20k Ω Mic Pickup Input Impedance5 MΩ PZO Pickup Input Impedance+12 dBu Maximum Instrument Input Level40Hz/100Hz/250Hz/630Hz/1.6kHz/4kHz/10kHz 7-Band EQ Center Frequencies2 Octave 7-Band EQ Bandwidth±12 dB 7-Band EQ Boost/Cut Range15-250 Hz Low Cut Frequency Range86 dB Max Available Instrument Pickup Gain10 dB Max Available Headphone Gain16 dB Max Available Return or Insert Gain50 Ω Main Line-Level Output Impedance100 Ω Main Mic-Level Output Impedance90 Ω Headphone Output Impedance100 Ω Effect or Insert Sends Output Impedance+22 dBu Max Main Line Output Level-20 dBu Max Main Mic Output Level+22 dBu Max Effect or Insert Sends Output LevelDimensions: 1.75" (H) x 10" (W) x 5.3" (D)Weight: 5 lb
Manufactured in Mukilteo, Washington
SN: 225997
At USD$150, this AP-13 is right in the sweet spot. Used units typically move between USD$150–275 depending on condition and completeness, so you're looking at fair-market pricing—not a steal, but solid. The AP-13 remains a workhorse for dual-pickup acoustic rigs, and finding one in decent shape is half the battle. Condition matters here, so verify the unit powers on cleanly and that all seven bands of each channel's graphic EQ respond without crackling or dead zones.
Before committing, confirm the power supply is included and functional—the listing doesn't explicitly state this, and a replacement isn't trivial to source. Also check that the phase-invert switches, insert loops, and send/return jacks all engage properly. Given these are rack units that see road use, inspect the XLR connectors for corrosion and test both channels simultaneously to rule out crosstalk or channel imbalance. If the plastic power-cable clip is damaged (a common wear point), that's cosmetic and acceptable at this price.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Octave Audio traces its roots to 1968, when Karl Heinz Hofmann established a transformer winding factory in Karlsbad, Germany. His son, Andreas Hofmann, joined in 1975, developing early semiconductor and tube amplifiers. In 2000, Andreas took the helm, rebranding it as Octave Audio to channel his decades-long passion for tube-based electronics into high-end hi-fi components.
The brand specializes in meticulously hand-built tube amplifiers, including preamplifiers, power amps, and integrated models like the V 16 Single-Ended and Jubilee series. Octave emphasizes premium features such as external power supplies, balanced connectivity, adjustable gain, and modular upgrades for phono stages and power conditioning. Their in-house transformer expertise ensures low-noise performance across full-range designs, from 8-watt single-ended units to 30-watt powerhouses.
Positioned firmly in the high-end market, Octave commands respect among audiophiles for its German craftsmanship, sonic purity, and innovative tube technology. Hand-assembled with top-tier components at their Karlsbad headquarters, these amplifiers deliver uncompromising musicality, appealing to discerning buyers seeking perfection over mass production.
See all Octave listings on RADAR.
