Rhumba Extreme 1.3

About the Rhumba Extreme 1.3

The Backert Labs Rhumba Extreme 1.3 is a tube linestage preamplifier positioned as the 'sweet spot' in Backert Labs' preamp lineup, sitting below their flagship Rhythm model but above the standard Rhumba 1.3. It features a patented dual-mono power supply, premium capacitors, a blue LED marker on the volume knob, and brass feet. The preamp uses two easily switchable 12AU7 tubes accessible via a removable acrylic cover on top. It includes auto biasing circuitry derived from the flagship model, ensuring optimal tube performance. The unit offers a stereo set of fully balanced XLR and three sets of RCA unbalanced inputs, with fully balanced XLR and two stereo sets of unbalanced RCA outputs, plus tape outputs. It also has a home theater bypass feature that passes the front two channels of a video processor through the preamp when it is off. The Rhumba Extreme 1.3 has an output impedance of 75 Ohms, designed to drive any amplifier effectively. The remote control included only manages volume. The preamp is handmade in the USA and is known for delivering 90% of the sound quality of the flagship model at a substantially lower price point. Optional upgrades include Brimar tubes for warmer mids and sweeter highs, and upgraded Audio Magic M-1 fuses. The unit measures approximately 17 x 12 x 4 inches and weighs around 15 pounds.