ART Pro Audio TUBE MP/C

Tube MP: the "MP/C" version designed for modern recording

The Tube MP/C is part of ART's line of compact preamps designed to provide a true analog color in both studio and home studio settings. While a "clean" preamp simply boosts the level, the Tube MP series emphasizes tube amplification that adds character and a sense of presence. The MP/C version stands out by integrating a compressor/limiter, useful for achieving more consistent takes that are easier to place in a mix and often quicker to finalize.

Who it's for and what it's for: from home studios to mobile racks

This ART preamp is aimed at musicians, podcasters, content creators, and sound engineers who want to improve recording quality without complicating the audio chain. It is especially suitable for vocals (spoken or sung), bass, and guitars via the Jack input, as well as sources requiring a comfortable gain reserve. Thanks to its compact format and external power supply, it easily fits into a mobile setup: computer recording, live capture, or secondary workstation.

Controlled tube sound: integrated preamplification, filtering, and dynamics

High-gain preamp with wide bandwidth

With a frequency response specified from 30 Hz to 60 kHz, the Tube MP/C aims for an open and precise reproduction, while allowing the tube to add subtle harmonic saturation when the gain is pushed. Its maximum gain of +80 dB enables working with both sensitive microphones and those requiring more level, maintaining headroom to adjust the character (cleaner or more colored) depending on the setting.

Compression and limiter mode: taming transients right at recording

The integrated dynamics section helps control attacks and level variations that can saturate a converter or make mixing difficult. In compression mode, the specified ratio smooths the signal for a more stable vocal or a more consistent bass. In limiter mode, the action is firmer to secure peaks, useful for very dynamic singers or percussive instruments. The available attack and release times facilitate adjustment between transparency and control, with automatic program-dependent behavior when you want a more "set and forget" management.

High-pass filter and phantom power: a true recording tool

The high-pass filter helps reduce foot noise, vibrations, plosives, and low-frequency hum even before the signal enters the audio interface. The switchable 48V phantom power allows powering condenser microphones directly from the preamp, which is particularly convenient if your interface lacks reliable phantom power or if you want centralized control of your recording chain.

Technical specifications

Model	ART Tube MP/C	High-pass Filter	-3 dB at 70 Hz, 6 dB per octave
Frequency Response	30 Hz - 60 kHz +/-1 dB	Attack Time	less than 1 ms (limit), 20 ms (comp.)
Distortion	less than 0.1% at maximum gain	Release Time	150 ms (fast), 20 ms - 3 s program dependent (Auto)
CMMR	greater than 60 dB at maximum gain	Compressor Slope	2:1 (Comp.) / 11:1 (Limit)
Maximum Gain	+80 dB	Tube	12AX7a
Connectors	XLR or Jack (inputs + outputs)	48V Power Supply	switchable
Input Impedance	Jack 1 M?, XLR 5 k?	Power Adapter	9 VAC at 1000 mA (included)
Maximum Input Level	Jack +15 dBu, XLR +10 dBu	Dimensions	44.5 x 150 x 165 mm
Maximum Output Level	+19 dBu (Line mode)	Weight	1.32 kg
Output Impedance	XLR less than 600 ?, Jack less than 300 ?