ART Voice Channel Tube Mic Preamp

The ART VoiceChannel is a complete channel input strip for recording, broadcast or high-profile live applications. Designed to deliver in critical applications where full control of the audio source is required, the VoiceChannel combines a single Class-A tube mic preamp, full-featured dynamics control, de-esser, expander and semi-parametric EQ into one unit. It has analog and digital output, as well as the ability to direct connect to any computer or laptop via integrated USB port.

Designed to be a powerful channel strip and the ideal all-in-one input solution for analog or digital recording, each stage of the VoiceChannel’s signal path provides full control and a complete feature set for each component, making it the perfect choice for tracking critical vocals and solo instruments.

Tube preamp

The VoiceChannel’s preamp section uses a Class-A tube design with variable input impedance and selectable tube plate voltage to create the most versatile high-performance microphone preamplifiers in their class. Capable of delivering incredible warmth, presence and clarity, the 12AX7A vacuum tube used in the circuit delivers controlled “musical-sounding” overload characteristics for added warmth and presence. It also maintains a wide dynamic range with impressive sonic detail and clarity.

Variable input impedance

Variable input impedance optimizes the input for the widest possible range of microphone sources. The ability to vary the input impedance of a VoiceChannel’s preamp changes the load the microphone “sees” in the system, dramatically altering its performance and character. This creates a wide range of new sonic possibilities with any modern or vintage condenser, ribbon or dynamic microphone.

The variable impedance control is infinitely variable, allowing much finer control and the ability to tune the preamp to the microphone’s ideal sweet spot.

Selectable tube plate voltage

The selectable tube voltage function delivers a wide variety of providing the either high plate voltage to the tube, ensuring maximum output with extremely low noise and distortion, or lowering the plate voltage to increase warmth and tube character.

Comprehensive dynamic control & EQ

The VoiceChannel delivers full dynamic control from the integrated fully variable Compressor/De-Esser/Expander section. Unlike most channel strip processors in this class, every function of the VoiceChannel’s dynamics control is easily tunable from the front panel. Complete control of compressor’s threshold, ratio, attack and release, as well as de-esser frequency and level, and expander/gate threshold are fully variable from smooth, high-quality low-noise pots.

The VoiceChannel’s semi-parametric EQ offers wide tunability and tone control—and for added versatility, the EQ can be patched before or after the dynamics processor with a simple one-button touch on the front panel. No re-patching required. Separate insert jacks on the back panel allow you quick, quiet inline connectivity to external signal processing gear immediately after the mic preamp (before the EQ and dynamics processor) in the signal path. Another insert patch point exists just before the A/D converters.

Digital connectivity and USB output

The ART VoiceChannel can direct-connect to virtually any recording platform, analog or digital console, making it a uniquely versatile input strip. Choose between a wide range of outputs, including balanced analog out, 44.1kHz to 192kHz AES/EBU, S/PDIF or ADAT digital output. If need be, you can also direct-connect to any computer or laptop via USB. All analog and digital outputs provide comprehensive metering for a detailed indication of audio levels.