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• HARDWARE REVIEW (Studio) •

More information on the Tube MP Studio Check it out at Zzounds.com (US Shipping Only)

Manufacturer: Applied Research and Technology Released: 1/1/2000

Need a handy little preamp to provide phantom power to that decent condenser mic you just picked up? Want to add some analog warmth to that signal you're sending into the pristing digital environment of your digital audio workstation or computer? Want to add some beef to a direct bass sound? The ART Tube MP admirably accomplishes all of these feats with noise-free sound quality and simple design. We tried the Tube MP direct-to-tape and directly into a computer, using a variety of sources including a Rode NT1 microphone, a few different new Apex condensers, and direct bass. In all cases the Tube MP sounded nice and warm and noticeably better than the preamps in the Yamaha recording mixer we were using.

The Tube MP features an input gain, output gain, both XLR and 1/4 inch ins and outs, 20DB gain boost, phantom power, phase reverse, and a hand-selected 12AX7a tube (the same tube used as a preamp in most tube or valve guitar amps out there).

By increasing the input gain one can subtly add saturation to the signal, affecting the signal more and adding more analog warmth. Reducing the input gain keeps the signal cleaner and less affected, allowing for a variety of sounds. According to the ART web site this is the most popular external preamp on the market and there is no doubt why: it's a nice product at an affordable price. And for those with a bit more cash, there's also the Tube MP Studio which adds a VU meter and output limiter as well as bundles of the Tube MP with condenser microphones to get you started.

THE COMPANY LINE (from Artroch.com)