ART Pro Channel III Channel Strip Mic and Instrument Preamp

The ART Pro Channel III is a professional channel strip designed for recording musicians and engineers seeking an affordable preamp with extensive tone shaping and true tube warmth. It combines a microphone preamp, compressor, and equalizer into a single signal path for flexible studio and live recording applications. This unit is built to deliver detailed control while maintaining musical character.

The mic and instrument preamp features a Class A FET input stage with selectable microphone impedance and up to 60 dB of gain for optimal source matching. A front-panel high-impedance instrument input allows direct recording without disconnecting rear inputs, while the variable low cut filter helps control rumble, plosives, and low-frequency buildup. Switchable operating levels support integration into a wide range of audio systems.

Designed for versatility, the Pro Channel III includes opto and FET compression voicings along with a four-band semi-parametric EQ for precise tone shaping. The compressor and EQ sections can be reordered or bypassed independently to suit different workflows. This makes the unit ideal for vocals, instruments, and full-range sources requiring controlled dynamics and detailed tonal sculpting.

Key Features

• Class A Preamp: Discrete FET input microphone preamp design
• Selectable Impedance: Optimizes performance with different microphones
• Instrument DI: Front-panel high-impedance 1/4 inch input
• Dual Compression Voicing: Tube opto and FET compressor modes
• Flexible Signal Path: Compressor and EQ order switchable with independent bypass
• Advanced EQ: Four-band semi-parametric equalizer with wide frequency control
• Low Cut Filter: Variable filter for controlling low-frequency noise

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Response: 12 Hz to 100 kHz +0 -1 dB
• Dynamic Range: Greater than 110 dB A-weighted
• Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.009 percent typical at 1 kHz
• Equivalent Input Noise: -128 dBu mic line, -109 dBu instrument
• Maximum Gain: Up to 75 dB total
• Compressor Ratio: 1.25 to 1 up to 20 to 1
• Low Cut Filter Range: 10 Hz to 250 Hz single pole
• Power Requirements: 100 to 240 V AC 50 to 60 Hz 25 W