Tube MP/C
Tube MP/C
Overview
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. A R T’s Tube MP/C circuitry is a hybrid design utilizing 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-inch 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 utilizes optical electronics (Vactrol) coupled with a 12AX7a vacuum tube gain stage for superior musical performance.
Optional ART SM1 stand mount securely attaches the Tube MP/C to any microphone stand for live stage or studio applications is available.
Key Features
- Tube-based mic/line preamplifier with up to 80 dB of gain
- Hand-selected 12AX7a tube
- Optical (VCA-less) compressor circuitry = transparent dynamics control
- 1/4-inch 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
- Custom extruded aluminum chassis
Specifications
| Frequency Response | 30 Hz – 60 kHz +/- 1 dB balanced output, 20 Hz – 60 kHz +/- 1dB 1/4″ output |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | <0.1% @ max gain |
| CMMR | > 60 dB @ max gain |
| Equivalent Input Noise | -128dBu typical (“A” wtd., Shorted XLR balanced input, gain @ max) |
| Input Impedance | 1M Ω 1/4″ input, 5K Ω XLR input |
| Input/Output Connections | Input: XLR balanced or 1/4″ balanced. Output: 1/4″ unbalanced XLR balanced, transformer isolated. |
| Maximum Gain | +80 dB (balanced in-out, +64dB (unbalanced input, balanced output) |
| Maximum Input Level | unbalanced (Inst): +15 dBu, balancd (mic): +10 dBu |
| Maximum Output Level | +19 dBu (Line mode) |
| Output Impedance | XLR: <600 Ω, 1/4″: <300 Ω |
| Low Cut Filter | -3 dB @ 70 Hz, 6dB/Octave |
| Phantom Power | Switch selectable, +48Volts DC, filtered, current limited |
| Chassis Type | All aluminum black anodized with integral rubber sides |
| Power Requirements | 9VAC @ 1000mA (external) |
| Attack Time | <1 ms (limit), 20 ms (comp.) |
| Release Time | 150ms (fast), 20ms – 3s Program dependant (Auto) |
| Tube Type | Hand selected 12AX7a |
| Compressor Slope | 2:1 (Comp.) / 11:1 (Limit) |
| Dimensions | 1.75″H x 5.9″ W x 6.5″ D (44.5mm x 150mm x 165mm) |
| Weight | 2.9 lbs (1.32 kg) |
| Notes | 0dBu = 0.775V rms Weight includes power supply and packaging |
