Art Tube MP Studio V3 User manual

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The ART
TUBE MP STUDIO V3™
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ........................................................................................... 2
Installation ............................................................................................. 3
AC Power Hookup .............................................................................. 3
Audio Connections .............................................................................. 3
Safety Precautions .............................................................................. 3
Controls and Indicators .........................................................................4
Input Control ....................................................................................... 4
+20 dB Gain Switch ............................................................................ 4
Phantom Power +48V Switch ............................................................. 4
Phase Reverse Switch ........................................................................ 5
OPL™ (Peak Limiter) Switch .............................................................. 6
Power/Clip/Limit LED .......................................................................... 6
VU Meter ............................................................................................. 6
Output Control .................................................................................... 7
Connections .......................................................................................... 8
¼” Input Jack....................................................................................... 8
XLR Input Jack ................................................................................... 8
XLR Output Jack ................................................................................. 8
¼” Output Jack ................................................................................... 9
Power Jack ......................................................................................... 9
Operation ............................................................................................. 10
Warranty Information .......................................................................... 12
Service ................................................................................................. 13
Tube MP Studio Specifications .......................................................... 14

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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Tube MP Studio V3™ -and congratulations:
You now own one of the most versatile preamplifiers available. Offering a
superb level of sound quality, the Tube MP Studio’s hybrid solid state and
tube circuit design combined with a straightforward user interface quickly
and easily gives you access to all of its features.
The original ART Tube MP put professional-caliber tube preamplification
into the hands of thousands of musicians and recordists that wanted great
tube tone in a compact and flexible package.
The Tube MP Studio V3™ extends the range of applications by adding V3™
(Variable Valve Voicing) technology with an output protection limiter
(OPL™) to precisely control output peaks, and analog VU metering to aid in
setting and maintaining proper signal levels.
The Tube MP Studio V3™ can be used in a wide variety of applications
including recording, project and home studios, where its metering
functionality and OPL™ circuitry really shines. It also functions as a direct
box, with impedance matching and preamplification for instrument or line-
level sources.
FEATURES:
• Built-in analog VU metering
• V3™ (Variable Valve Voicing) with OPL™ (switch selectable)
• Up to 70dB of gain
• Hand selected 12AX7A dual triode tube
• Balanced XLR inputs and outputs
• ¼” High impedance Instrument input and ¼” line level output
• +48V Phantom power (switch selectable)
• Phase Reverse Switch
• Gain (+20dB) Switch
• Input Gain Control
• Output Level Control
• Multifunction, dual color LED Power/Clip/Limit indicator
• Fully shielded all steel chassis
• Designed and developed in the USA

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INSTALLATION
The Tube MP Studio V3™ may be used in a wide variety of
applications and environments. Self-contained in an all-steel
enclosure, the Tube MP Studio V3™ is designed for continuous
professional use. Because the unit is compact and lightweight,
mounting location is not critical. However, for greater reliability we
recommend that you not place the Tube MP Studio V3™ on top of
power amps or other sources of heat. The tube circuitry needs about a
minute to “warm up” from a cold power up.
AC POWER HOOKUP
The Tube MP Studio has an external power supply designed to
operate at 115 VAC @ 50 to 60 Hz. Units manufactured for use
outside the United States of America have been modified to comply
with the required electrical specifications. Only use the adapter that
came with the Tube MP Studio V3™. If the adapter becomes lost or
damaged, contact ART Customer Service for replacement. If you need
to purchase one locally, just make sure that you specify 9 Volt AC (not
DC), at 800 ma.
AUDIO CONNECTIONS
Audio connections to and from the Tube MP Studio V3™ are balanced
XLR (Pin 2 = Hot (+), Pin 3 = Cold (-), Pin 1 = Ground) and unbalanced
¼” (Tip = Hot (+), Sleeve = Ground). We recommend that you switch
off the +48V Phantom Power whenever changing connections to the
XLR input.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Warning: To avoid the risk of shock or fire, do not expose this unit to
moisture. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Do not remove the
metal cover; there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Only use the
power adapter that came with this unit or one obtained from Arts
Customer Service Department.

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CONTROLS & INDICATORS
INPUT CONTROL
The Input Control sets the amount of input gain of the Tube MP Studio
V3™. Turn the control clockwise to increase gain and
counterclockwise to decrease gain. You may control two ranges of
gain with this control, +26 to +60dB and +6 to +40dB. Selection of the
gain range is made with the +20dB gain switch.
+20DB GAIN SWITCH
Use the +20dB Gain Switch to set the gain range of the input control.
When the switch is out, the Tube MP Studio V3™ operates in Normal
mode. Depressing the switch adds 20dB of gain. This mode is
indicated by the labeling in red and corresponds directly to the input
control’s red gain range labeling. For microphone applications, where
more gain is needed, push the switch in. For hot line level inputs, set
the switch in the out position.
PHANTOM POWER +48V SWITCH
The Tube MP Studio V3™ can power any microphone needing +48
volts DC Phantom power. Phantom power is supplied to pins 2 and 3
of the XLR Input jack when this switch is depressed. The Tube MP
Studio V3™ slowly applies and removes the +48volts, to prevent
damage to microphones.
Be sure to turn down or mute the output of the Tube MP Studio V3™
when engaging or disengaging Phantom power. Additionally, when
disengaging, allow 30 to 45 seconds for the power to completely
discharge. Most microphones will make a sound like air leaking from a
tire when Phantom power is disconnected, but some can make some
very nasty low rumbles and whines as well.

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Dynamic microphones should not be affected or damaged if they are
plugged into a line where Phantom power is present. However, if the
mic doesn't need it, do not use it. Some things are best left untested!
PHASE REVERSE SWITCH
The Phase Reverse switch is provided to reverse the phase of the
signal. This switch works on Pins 2 and 3 of the XLR output jack and
also reverses the polarity of the ¼” output jack. In the Normal position,
the signal is in-phase. In the Reverse (or “in”) position, Pins 2 and 3
are reversed and the signal is changed to 180 degrees out of phase.
In multiple microphone applications, mic placement can affect the
phase of the signals. If two microphones pick up the same signal from
different locations, the result can be a hollow or frequency “shifted”
sound. In some cases it may sound as if an instrument disappears if it
happens to be 180 degrees out of phase. Depressing the Phase switch
can remedy this. In general, if your sound is “thin” or “out of position”,
try reversing the phase to correct the problem.
V3 –VARIABLE VALVE VOICING CONTROL
This Tube MP Studio V3™ features ART’s proprietary V3
technology. V3(which stands for Variable Valve Voicing), provides
optimized reference points to begin the recording process for guitars,
bass guitars, synths, acoustic instruments, percussion and more.
ART engineers ran our preamplification circuit through a battery of
tests and real life studio conditions. Our goal was to create a processor
that would allow a user to have presets that were optimized for specific
recording applications. We set out to create a preamp that would be
nimble enough to handle both violins and kick drums, and nearly
everything in between.
We wanted to take the guessing out of the equation –and that is how
we developed V3™. It’s simple, easy and it works really well.

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For example, if you are recording an acoustic guitar, V3™ has a preset
that has been optimized for that instrument. Once the preset is chosen,
the user can even fine tune the signal –which shows the true power of
V3™ technology…it’s tweakable. V3™ even features a multi setting,
which is useful for a wide variety of applications –like overhead
micing, broadcast and field recording.
This means that it is now quicker and easier than ever to make great
recordings! Musicians want to play, not spend hours adjusting knobs.
No other microphone preamp is as user-friendly as the Tube MP
Studio V3.
POWER/CLIP/LIMIT LED
The bi-color Power/Clip/Limit LED lights green after power is applied
and with lower level signals. If OPL™ is not being used, then the LED
will serve as a signal clip indicator. It will light red whenever the signal
at the tube’s output is about to clip. If the LED is constantly lit, reduce
the signal level with the Input gain control, or Activate the OPL™
circuitry.
When the OPL™ circuit is engaged, the LED will turn red whenever the
output signal peaks exceed the limiter's threshold, at which point the
limiter will reduce gain automatically, to prevent output clipping.
VU METER
The VU Meter gives an analog representation of the Tube MP Studio
V3™’s output signal level. “0dB” on the meter represents +6dBu at the
¼” output jack and +12dBu at the XLR output jack. Besides showing
the average analog level, it is sensitive to attack transients. When not
using OPL™, the VU Meter is a great indicator of how hard you are
running the tube. It also helps in setting a consistent level as you
change mics and instrument sources.

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The VU Meter also reflects the impact of the OPL™ circuitry on the
signal. For example, if the signal is “in the red” on the meter, the meter
will reflect the attenuation of the signal when the OPL™ is activated,
and the signal is brought out of the “red”.
OUTPUT CONTROL
The Output Control sets the output level of the Tube MP Studio V3™.
When the control is fully counterclockwise, there is no output. Turning
the control clockwise increases the level of the output signal. When
setting the Output level control, refer to the VU Meter for an accurate
level leaving the Tube MP Studio V3™.

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CONNECTIONS
Despite the Tube MP Studio V3™’s sophistication, it is easy to interface the
unit with a wide variety of equipment. All inputs and outputs, are located on
the rear panel. Standard ¼” and XLR inputs and outputs make patching
simple.
¼” INPUT JACK
The ¼” Input jack is for instrument and line level inputs. It has a high
input impedance to minimize any loading effects on instrument
pickups. It can also handle up to +22 dBu signals for line level signals.
Though not normally suggested, both input jacks can be used
simultaneously, in a pinch, to sum two signals. The signal present at
the XLR jack will tend to attenuate the signal of the ¼” input.
XLR INPUT JACK
The XLR Input jack is primarily intended for microphone input, and as
such can furnish Phantom Power when needed. It can handle up to
+14 dBu signals, which is the hottest signal you would get out of any
microphone. For even hotter input signals, you should use the ¼” input
jack. The XLR Input jacks medium input impedance is extremely flat
over a wide frequency range, which allows it to be musically neutral to
virtually any microphone (one of the Tube MP Studio V3™'s lesser
known secrets).
XLR OUTPUT JACK
The XLR Output jack of the Tube MP Studio V3™ is active balanced.
You may use it in an unbalanced configuration without harm to the
output circuitry. The XLR output can provide a hefty signal level
(+28dBu) at a low impedance, so make sure that you do not overdrive
equipment with sensitive inputs. When using it on the front end of a

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mixer, go into the mixer’s line in or insert inputs and not necessarily
into the mixer’s microphone input, unless the mixer can pad that input’s
level.
¼” OUTPUT JACK
The ¼” Output jack is unbalanced and should be used for sending
signals to amps, processors, or other unbalanced configurations.
Both balanced and unbalanced output connections may be used
simultaneously. This is particularly useful when using the Tube MP
Studio V3™ as a direct box for instruments or line level signals. Make
sure that both pieces of equipment connected to the Tube MP Studio
V3™’s outputs are connected to the same earth ground, beforehand,
to avoid electrical shock.
If you experience a grounding hum when using both output connectors
(one to a console, one to an instrument amp) simultaneously, a ground
loop may be the problem. To remedy this problem, disconnect the
ground wire (pin 1) from the XLR cable plugged into the Tube MP
Studio V3™’s output. This interrupts the ground path and therefore
breaks the loop.
POWER JACK
An external 9 Volt AC adapter powers the Tube MP Studio V3™. Plug
the adapter into the PWR jack and then into a power outlet. Only use
the adapter that came with the Tube MP Studio. If the adapter ever
becomes damaged, immediately discontinue use. They can be
purchased locally or directly from ART. Just make sure that you specify
9 Volt AC (not DC), at 800 ma.
.

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OPERATION
The main application of the Tube MP Studio V3™ is a microphone
preamplifier. Plug any microphone directly into either input and set the
input and output controls to provide an appropriate level into the next
stage of your system.
Use the Tube MP Studio V3™ as an acoustic or piezo pickup
preamplifier to run directly into a console, amp, processor, recorder, or
sound card.
The Tube MP Studio V3™ is ideal for use as a DI box. Plug the
instrument into either input and use the XLR or ¼” (or both) outputs to
connect to your recorder, board or PA system.
Because of its low noise and excellent tonal qualities, the Tube MP
Studio V3™ is ideal for running mixes through before recording to DAT
or cassette. Used as a mastering device, the Tube MP Studio V3™ is
capable of adding warmth and gentle tube compression to the signal.
Variable Input and Output level controls make the Tube MP Studio
V3™ ideal for level matching material in postproduction situations.
Fill in the following information for your reference:
Date of purchase ___________________
Purchased from ___________________
SERIAL NUMBER ___________________

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V3 Settings and their applications when processing:
When observing the V3dial from a clockwise perspective, the
following settings are:
Neutral Settings:
These are useful for uncolored, natural reproduction of sound.
6:00 -Neutral Flat
6:45 –Neutral Vocal (Microphone)
7:30 –Neutral Guitar Amplifier
8:15 –Neutral Bass Guitar
Warm Settings:
These are useful when warming a signal is desired.
9:00 –Warm Electronic Keyboard
9:45 –Warm Electric Guitar
10:30 –Warm Vocal Microphone
11:15 –Warm Valve
Warm Settings with OPL™:
These are useful with high sound pressure levels, close proximity
micing, and spiky transients, as well as warming the signal.
12:00 –Warm OPL™ Multiple Applications
12:45 –Warm OPL™ Vocal
1:30 –Warm OPL™ Acoustic Guitar
2:15 –Warm OPL™ Piano
Neutral Settings with OPL™:
These are useful with high spl’s, close micing and spiky transients, as
well as maintaining clarity.
3:00 –Neutral OPL™ Bass Guitar
3:45 –Neutral OPL™ Acoustic Guitar
4:30 –Neutral OPL™ Percussion
5:15 –Neutral OPL™ Limit

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WARRANTY INFORMATION
Limited Warranty
Applied Research and Technology will provide warranty and service for this
unit in accordance with the following warrants:
Applied Research and Technology, (A R T) warrants to the original
purchaser that this product and the components thereof will be free from
defects in workmanship and materials for a period of one year from the date
of purchase. Applied Research and Technology will, without charge, repair
or replace, at its option, defective product or component parts upon prepaid
delivery to the factory service department or authorized service center,
accompanied by proof of purchase date in the form of a valid sales receipt.
Exclusions:
This warranty does not apply in the event of misuse or abuse of the product
or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs. This warranty is void if
the serial number is altered, defaced, or removed.
A R T reserves the right to make changes in design or make additions to or
improvements upon this product without any obligation to install the same
on products previously manufactured.
A R T shall not be liable for any consequential damages, including without
limitation damages resulting from loss of use. Some states do not allow
limitations of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or
exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific rights and
you may have other rights, which vary, from state to state.
For units purchased outside the United States, an authorized distributor of
Applied Research and Technology will provide service.

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SERVICE
The following information is provided in the unlikely event that your unit
requires service.
1) Be sure that the unit is the cause of the problem. Check to make sure the
unit has the proper power supplied, all cables are connected correctly, and
the cables themselves are in working condition.
2) If you find the unit to be at fault, write down a complete description of the
problem, including how and when the problem occurs. Please write down a
description of your complete setup before calling Customer Service.
3) Contact our Customer Service Department at [phone] for your
Return Authorization number or questions regarding technical assistance or
repairs. Customer Service hours are 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern Time,
Monday through Friday.
4) Pack the unit in its original carton or a reasonable substitute. The packing
box is not recommended as a shipping carton. Put the packaged unit in
another box for shipping. Print the RA number clearly on the outside of the
shipping box. Print your return shipping address on the outside of the box.
5) Include with your unit: a return shipping address (we cannot ship to a
P.O. Box), a copy of your purchase receipt, a daytime phone number, and a
description of the problem.
6) Ship only your unit and its power supply (keep your manual!) to:
APPLIED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY
215 TREMONT STREET
ROCHESTER, NEW YORK 14608
RA# ____________________

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TUBE MP STUDIO V3™ SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions 5.0”H x 5.5” W x 2.0”H
Weight 1.5 lbs.
Input Connections XLR (balanced), ¼”TS
Output Connections XLR (balanced), ¼”TS
Input Impedance XLR, ¼” 2K ohms, 840k ohms
Output Impedance XLR, ¼” 600 ohms, 300ohms
Maximum Input Level, XLR +14dBu
Maximum Input Level, ¼” +22dBu
Maximum Output Level, XLR +28dBu
Maximum Output Level, ¼” +22dBu
CMRR >75dB (typical @ 1kHz)
Frequency Response 10Hz to 30kHz, +/-.5dB
Dynamic Range >100dB (20-20kHz) typical
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) <0.1% (typical)
Maximum Gain
XLR to XLR 70dB (typical)
¼” to ¼” 54dB (typical)
XLR to ¼” 64dB (typical)
¼” to XLR 60dB (typical)
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN)
XLR to XLR -129dBu (A weighted)
¼” to ¼” -105dBu (A weighted)
TubeType 12AX7A, Dual Triode, Hand Selected
PowerRequirements USA –9VAC @ 0.8A (typ.) Export units
configured for country of destination
ART maintains a policy of constant product improvement. ART reserves the right to
make changes in design or make additions to or improvements upon this product
without any obligation to install same on products previously manufactured. Therefore,
specifications are subject to change without notice.
Applied Research & Technology
215 Tremont Street
Rochester, NY 14608 USA
[phone]
[phone] (FAX)
www.artproaudio.com © 2002 Applied Research & Technology