ART Tube MP/C

The Tube MP/C (PreAmplifier/Compressor) is a multi-purpose tool for audio engineering and recording. Two independent circuits featuring a tube-based analog preamplifier and a VCA-less compressor with optical gain reduction control are housed in one, convenient desk-top chassis.

Used as a mic/line preamp or as a DI (direct) box, the Tube MP/C is designed to work seamlessly with any recording, sound-reinforcement, or electronic instrument setup. ART’s Tube MP/C circuitry is a hybrid design utilising the latest, most advanced, solid-state and tube technology.

The preamplifier’s active balanced solid-state input provides extremely low noise and excellent common mode rejection. The ¼" high impedance input prevents loading of any connected device making the Tube MP/C perfect for DI or line level applications. The preamplifier’s second stage 12AX7a tube runs on a regulated DC voltage providing an additional 20dB of gain.

The compression circuit features a VCA-less design and utilises optical electronics (Vactrol) coupled with a 12AX7a vacuum tube gain stage for superior musical performance.

• Tube-based mic/line preamplifier with up to 80 dB of gain

• Hand-selected 12AX7a tube (don't you hate it when they use their feet?)

• Optical (VCA-less) compressor circuitry = transparent dynamics control

• 1/4" unbalanced inputs and outputs

• XLR balanced inputs and outputs

• Transformer isolated XLR output

• Selectable output range for Line/Instrument interface levels

• LED meters for Tube Warmth, Gain Reduction and Output level

• +48V phantom power

• Phase reversal switch

• Selectable release time settings

• > 90dB dynamic range

APPLICATIONS

The main application of the Tube MP/C is as a microphone preamplifier and compressor. To use the Tube MP/C as a mic or line preamplifier only, simply release the Opto Comp switch to bypass the compression circuitry. Plug any microphone directly into either input and set the input and output controls to provide an appropriate level into the next stage of your system.

Using the Tube MP/C as a DI

The Tube MP/C is ideal for use as a DI box. Plug the instrument into either input and use the XLR, ¼-inch, or both outputs to connect to your recorder, board, amp or PA system. Since the XLR output is transformer isolated you don't have to worry about creating ground loops when connecting to recording gear with the XLR while the 1/4" output is connected to say a guitar amp. Experiment with different input level settings for different textures.

In most cases the Tube MP/C offers superior performance to the on-board preamp on your console. To use theTube MP/C instead of your on-board preamp, simply connect the output of the Tube MP/C to the line input of your mixer’s input channel.

Note: you can connect the XLR output jack of the Tube MP/C to the XLR input of your mixer, however most affordable mixers do not allow you to bypass their internal preamp when using the XLR jack. Use the Output switch and set it to the Inst. mode when connecting to a mic preamp. This will lower the output noise of the Tube MP/C and prevent overloading the input of the mic preamp.

Tracking

Because of its low noise and excellent tonal qualities, the Tube MP/C is ideal to run tracks through before recording. The Tube MP/C is ideal for adding tube warmth to tracks. Use the Inst. input for line level inputs. The output of the Tube MP/C can then connect to either a mic or line level return.

Used as a mastering device, the Tube MP/C is capable of adding warmth and gentle tube compression to the incoming signal. Low noise, compression and variable Gain and Output level controls make the Tube MP/C ideal for level matching material in post production situations.

Re-Amping

You can use the Tube MP/C to easily connect studio recording gear to a guitar amp. Simply connect the line out of your recording gear to the Inst. input and set the Output switch to Inst. level. Connect either output to the instrument input of your gear. You can then mic your gear and record the re-amped signal.

Special Effects

For industrial, metal, or just “flavor” textures, experiment with the Tube MP/C. Overdriving the preamp and compressor circuitry can add interesting textures when blended with vocals and other instruments. Placing signals purposely out of phase can also yield interesting results. No harm will come to the Tube MP/C with thistype of experimentation. However, be sure to have output and monitoring levels turned DOWN before “testing” the sound. Remember, you have a great amount of gain available in the Tube MP/C!