The Headway EDB-2 H.E., the successor to the company's popular EDB-1, is a multifunctional acoustic preamp that offers a number of tools for processing the sound of instruments that are amplified with pickups or microphones. As the abbreviation "H.E." indicates, this version offers a two-channel harmonic enhancement feature in addition to its predecessor's five-band equaliser, DI feature, and anti-feedback function. The EDB-2 H.E. also features a jack input for channel 1 and an XLR input for channel 2 as well as a stereo jack input, DI and Line Out connections, and both a Send and Return to allow an effects loop to be integrated. There is even a 3.5mm mini-jack input for playback from smartphones and similar devices, and each channel has its own mute switch.
The Headway EDB-2 H.E. features independent gain controls for each of the two channels, and the enhanced analogue technology allows phase inversion and enhancement of the high harmonics for each channel separately or both channels together. The amplifier additionally includes both an earth lift (ground lift) switch to prevent ground loops when in DI mode and a tuneable notch filter to suppress feedback, which can be assigned to either channel, while the preamp's bass frequency response can be optimised separately for each channel using the high-pass filter. Both 48V and 11V phantom power are available via the XLR input for channel 2, making this compact preamp a true all-rounder in live situations.
The Headway EDB-2 H.E. provides up to 32dB of low-noise amplification for players who want to process the signal of an acoustic instrument amplified using a pickup or a microphone, and its switchable low-cut filter allows the response to be tailored for guitar, bass, or violin/mandolin. What is more, singer-songwriters will also find it a space-saving solution for amplifying a vocal microphone and a guitar with a single device, while acoustic guitar duos can use the EDB-2 H.E. to play through a single-channel amplifier. And thanks to its EQ, the preamp works like a miniature mixing desk.
Founded in England in 2006, Headway Music Audio originally only manufactured pickup systems and retrofit pickups for guitars, which are known for their particularly natural sound and easy handling. The company now also produces pickups for other string instruments, such as violins. The search for practical solutions for live situations led Headway to additionally include preamps for string instruments in its catalogue. The devices are characterised by a combination of compact dimensions and a large number of features. The fact that Headway products are used by well-known musicians such as Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, Robert Plant, and Midge Ure is a testament to their quality.
Thanks to its mounting flange, the Headway EDB-2 H.E. can be mounted on a microphone stand while on stage, keeping the device itself safe and ensuring that the user always has it within easy reach and at a convenient height whenever they need to adjust their sound. However, the preamp also has four non-slip rubber feet that ensure a secure grip on flat surfaces, and a metal belt clip is additionally included in the scope of delivery for those who prefer to carry this compact preamp on their person - in which case it can be operated on battery power. The power supply for stationary use is also included.