ART Pro MPA III Two-Channel Multivoice Tube Preamplifier

The ART Pro MPA III is a two-channel, rackmount tube preamplifier that delivers up to 70 dB of gain with selectable 12AT7 tube or solid state signal paths, giving recording engineers and producers hands-on control over tone character in a single 2U unit. Designed as a direct upgrade to the built-in preamps on a mixer or audio interface, the Pro MPA III handles both XLR microphone and 1/4" instrument inputs on each channel, making it equally at home tracking vocals, guitars, and acoustic instruments.

For engineers seeking the best 2-channel tube preamp for home studio and project recording, the Pro MPA III delivers an exceptionally wide variable impedance range - from 600 ohms to 80 kilohms - that transforms the tonal response of dynamic and ribbon microphones without additional outboard gear. The Character switch compensates for transformer non-linearity and improves vocal intelligibility, a feature that separates this unit from budget alternatives. Producers looking for an affordable rack mic preamp with tube warmth will find the Pro MPA III punches well above its price point.

Built around discrete Class A FET microphone preamps and a universal internal power supply compatible with 100-240V mains, the Pro MPA III integrates cleanly into professional and project studio environments worldwide. Selectable +4 dBu and -10 dBV operation ensures compatibility with both professional-grade outboard gear and consumer audio interfaces, while analog VU meters provide real-time level monitoring without relying on software metering. The Pro MPA III joins the Pro Channel III and Pro VLA III in ART's flagship analog processing lineup.

Key Features of the ART Pro MPA III Rackmount Tube Preamp

• Selectable 12AT7 Tube or Solid State Voicing: The Voice switch enables instant switching between warm tube character and a clean solid state signal path, giving engineers tonal flexibility without recabling or additional hardware.
• Discrete Class A FET Microphone Preamps: Delivers ultra-low noise performance with an Equivalent Input Noise rating of -128 dBu (A-weighted), preserving detail and transient accuracy across the full frequency range.
• Variable Impedance (600 ohm to 80 kilohm): Dramatically reshapes the response of dynamic and ribbon microphones, functioning as a powerful tonal tool built directly into the signal chain.
• Character Switch for Vocal Intelligibility: Enhances low and high frequency content to compensate for microphone transformer non-linearity, improving presence and clarity on vocal recordings.
• Instrument-Level DI Inputs: Each channel accepts a 1/4" instrument signal at up to +17 dBu, enabling direct recording of guitar, bass, and keyboards without an external DI box.
• +4 dBu / -10 dBV Switchable Operation: Ensures compatibility with professional studio hardware and consumer-grade audio interfaces in the same signal chain.
• Analog VU Meters: Provide real-time visual gain staging feedback on both channels, supporting accurate level management during tracking and overdub sessions.
• Universal Internal Power Supply: Accepts 100-240V at 50/60 Hz, supporting worldwide use without an external adapter or voltage converter.

Technical Specifications

• Channels: 2
• Form Factor: 2U Rackmount
• Input Impedance (XLR): 600 ohm - 80 kilohm (variable)
• Input Impedance (1/4" Instrument): 1 megohm
• Output Impedance (XLR): Less than 47 ohm
• Maximum Input Level (XLR): +19 dBu
• Maximum Input Level (Instrument): +17 dBu
• Maximum Output Level: +27 dBu (XLR and 1/4")
• Maximum Gain: 70 dB
• Frequency Response (Tube Mode): 15 Hz - 48 kHz (+0, -1 dB)
• Frequency Response (Solid State Mode): 15 Hz - 120 kHz (+0, -1 dB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.005% (typical)
• Equivalent Input Noise: -128 dBu (XLR, A-weighted)
• CMRR: Greater than 50 dB
• Power Requirements: 100-240V~ 50/60 Hz, 25W
• Power Connector: Rear-mounted IEC
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 3.5" x 19" x 8.75"
• Weight: 10.5 lbs (4.7 kg)