SPL Channel One Mk3

The SPL Channel One Mk3 is the next generation of the legendary discrete tube preamplifier.

For over 20 years, the Channel One from SPL has been synonymous with a high-quality and extremely musical channel strip for recording and mixing. In the latest version of the Mk3, this classic has been carefully redesigned and enriched with a number of impressive features that raise the quality of studio recordings to a new level.

At the heart of the Channel One Mk3 is a discrete tube preamplifier with an extended gain range of up to +68 dB, which can fully exploit the potential of even the most demanding microphones. Input level, phase and high-frequency filter controls provide flexible control of the signal source. A 48V phantom power supply for condenser microphones can be activated individually for each input.

For additional creative control, a signal output directly after the preamplifier is provided, allowing the recording of a "safe" track. If you later need to change the settings, the signal can be returned for processing via the line input.

A unique feature of Channel One Mk3 is the possibility of using it as an "analog plug-in" for processing line signals directly in the device path.

After the preamplifier, the signal can be further enriched with an adjustable Tube Saturation section, introducing characteristic warm harmonic distortions. The Tube Saturation order can be changed before or after the equalizer.

A highly effective de-esser removes sharp "S" sounds during vocal processing. There are separate bands for low and high frequencies with automatic threshold control.

Revolutionary SPL design - Transient Designer based on differential envelope processing. Two Attack and Sustain knobs allow independent management of the attack and sustain phase of the signal, which allows perfect manual tuning of transients and lengths.

The compressor is characterized by incredibly smooth "inaudible" operation and simplicity of setting. The Make-Up Gain knob compensates for the change in the overall level after compression.

The equalizer pays special attention to the Air section with a distinct tonal color. The bell-shaped filter at 19 kHz allows you to add additional air harmonics or tone down sharp high frequencies.

The full-color VU meter displays the input/output level and the degree of compression. DE-ESS LEDs indicate the detection of the "S" sound by the de-esser.

The updated Channel One Mk3 inherits the rich traditions of the classic channel strip, enriching them with the latest solutions for recording and studio processing. It is an extremely musical and flexible solution that will be the perfect choice for any modern studio.

Features:
- Discrete tube preamp with -20 to +68 dB adjustment
- 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- Post-preamp signal output for recording a separate track
- "Analog plug-in" mode for processing line signals
- 80 Hz 6 dB/oct high-frequency filter and phase for preamps
- Adjustable Tube Saturation section
- Tube Saturation order before or after EQ
- De-esser with automatic threshold and separate bands
- Revolutionary Transient Designer for envelope management
- Compressor with auto-release and gain control
- 19 kHz Air accentuated EQ ±10 dB
- Full color VU meter for level control

Specifications:
- Maximum Input Gain (Microphone, +9.5 dB - +68 dB) 13.5 dBu
- Maximum input gain (Line, -20 dB – +16 dB) 22.5 dBu
- Maximum input gain (Instrument, -6 dB – +30 dB) 15 dBu
- Input impedance (Microphone/Line) 10 kΩ
- Input impedance (Instrument) 1.1 MΩ
- Output impedance 75 Ω
- Frequency range 10 Hz – 200 kHz
- Dimensions 482 x 88 x 210 mm
- Weight 6 kg