A channel strip in 500 format

The MPA575 features, in a single API 500 rack unit, a mic preamp, an EQ and a compressor.

The mic preamp circuit is discrete, in Class A and transformer coupled. Ingram Engineering says that it adds a slight coloration to the sound, like the early Teletronix and Gates units. A two-way switch allows for choosing between a 600 Ohm impedance for a darker, Neve-type sounds, o 2.4 kOhms for a brighter and more neutral tone, just like on the GML of John Hardy preamps. The impedance change affects the gain that will adjust automatically to ensure level matching.

The EQ is a single knob with combined high and low-frequencies and is completed with a high-pass filter which frequencies are continuously variable. The EQ and filter can be independently bypassed.

Last, the MPA575 offers a program-dependent feed forward-type soft-knee compressor with a single knob that will control the threshold, compression ratio and make-up gain. Attack and release times are program dependent so they will be automatically set. Compression ratios range from 1.2:1 to 20:1+ according to the level. You’ll also find in this section another 2-band EQ that is used as a side chain filter.

Note that the side chain signal patch on the MPA575 can be routed to the API “Option” or Radial Engineering “Omniport”, which allows for using an external filter instead of the internal EQ.

The buffered output is adjustable via a front knob and a 6-segment VU-meter is also available.

No information regarding the price of the MPA575. Visit ingramengineering.net for further details.