OBH-12

About the OBH-12

The Creek OBH-12 is a remote passive preamplifier featuring a motorized volume potentiometer and two stereo relays for input and tape output selection, controlled via an infrared remote. It is a purely passive device, meaning it introduces no gain or distortion, making it suitable for systems where the power amplifier has sufficient sensitivity to be driven directly by the source. The OBH-12 supports two inputs and one tape loop, with one fixed and one variable tape output. Volume can be controlled from the front panel or remote, while source selection and mute functions are remote-only. It is highly transparent, smooth sounding, and excels in low-level detail and microdynamics, though macrodynamics are less pronounced compared to active preamps. The unit is compact and lightweight, with dimensions of 100 x 130 x 60 mm and a weight of 0.42 kg. It includes a remote control and power adapter. The OBH-12 is praised for its natural sound and is considered excellent value, often outperforming more expensive preamps in its price range. It is designed and made in the UK.