SPL Channel One Mk3 Premium Channel Strip

The SPL Channel One Mk3 Premium Channel Strip is packed with tons of amazing features and tools, all backed by an extremely musical tone, and SPL's respected high-end build quality. This Premium version is outfitted with Lundahl Input and Output Transformers.

In the newest Mk3 version, this classic has been thoroughly revised and, in addition to a higher internal audio voltage (now +/- 18V) for even better, more detailed sound, a further improved preamplifier section, an integrated Transient Designer, a Tube Saturation stage and a Mic A/B comparison option for two microphones and other great features that raise the modern recording and mixing studio to a new level of quality. With de-esser, compressor and equalizer, all the important tools of a real channel strip are still on board. Whether it's a microphone, line, or instrument signal, the Channel One Mk3 makes any source sound like a professionally recorded signal. The new design of the SPL Studio Series perfectly highlights the sonic qualities of this 3rd generation Channel One. Channel One Mk3 offers two microphone inputs on the rear panel – Mic A and Mic B. Two microphones can be connected. This enormously simplifies the workflow. Thus, when comparing or changing microphones, it is no longer necessary to unplug them. Channel One Mk3 offers the possibility to process line signals. This means that sources with line level, such as an analog signal from an audio interface, can be processed with de-esser, compressor, limiter and equalizer and then be recorded again. In this way, Channel One Mk3 becomes an “analog plugin” within an insert of a DAW.

Saturation effects are generated through the tube being pushed to and beyond its normal operating limits. In contrast to semiconductors, a tube thus pushed to such levels does not clip from a certain level, approaching more gradually its level limits and thereby producing its typical tonal result, which in audio signal processing can have such often profitable aural effects — on one hand (and depending on the amount applied), from subtle to extensive harmonic distortion and on the other hand, a compaction of the sonicevent, that is, a limiting effect that exhibits a pleasant, rounded or soft sound. Acoustically and also in its range of applications this can be compared very well with tape saturation effects.

With all SPL devices they develop not only according to plan, but also by ear. Many important components are installed on the circuit boards using Through-hole technology. This way SPL can ensure that they can use the best sounding components.

Premium Lundahl Transformers
The transformers are used as an alternative to electronic balancing stages in the inputs and outputs. Transformers can be found in many classics of audio engineering. They make the bass and fundamental tines rounder and give it a little more punch. The high and overtone range sounds a bit silkier and more present. We find transformers to be advantageous, especially for voices. For highest precision and speed in signal transmission (transient processing), however, electronic stages are better suited. The bottom line is that it is a question of taste and application.

SPL Channel One Mk3 Premium Channel Strip Features

• Lundahl Input and Output Transformers
• 68dB of gain
• Mic, Line, and Instrument Inputs
• Dual Mic Inpts for fast mic comparison
• 20dB Pad
• Phase Invert
• 80Hz High-Pass Filter (-6dB per Octave)
• Tube Saturation Circuit
• Auto-Dynamic De-Esser
• Transient Designer
• Auto-Compressor/Limiter - Stereo Linkable
• 3 Band Shaping EQ
• Output Trim
• Highly visable LED Metering (Output and Gain Reduction)

SPL Channel One Mk3 Premium Channel Strip Specification

• Maximum input gain: Mic, +9.5 dB – +68 dB / Line, -20 dB – +16dB / Instrument, -6 dB – +30 dB
• Input impedance: Mic/Line 10kOhms, Mic 1.1mOhms
• Frequency range (Mic): 10 Hz – 200 kHz
• Equivalent Input Noise (EIN): -126 dBu
• Phantom power: +48 V
• Mains voltage (selectable): 230 V AC / 50; 115 V AC / 60 Hz
• Fuse: for 230 V= T 315 mA, for 115 V= T 630 mA

SPL Channel One Mk3 Premium Channel Strip Includes

• SPL Channel One Mk3 Premium Channel Strip
• IEC Power Cable
• Manual (available online)
• Manufacturer's Warranty