GRACE DESIGN / m103

GRACE design has finally released the m103, their first channel strip equipped with a mic preamp, compressor, and equalizer!

~From the manufacturer's website~

The m103 is a powerful channel strip featuring a high-quality GRACE design microphone preamp, a 3-band EQ, and a fully controllable compressor.

The transformerless mic preamp circuit perfectly captures the natural sound, recreating the functionality and sound quality of the classic m101. The 3-band EQ section features a single-stage, parallel-tuned architecture. This efficient circuit design achieves natural tone shaping across all frequency bands, reflecting the artistic expression of the music. Fully parametric Mid, Hi, and Low bands feature shelving/peaking modes.

The compressor circuit features the purest design, employing an optical attenuator. GRACE design's unique gain control mechanism allows for a wide range of applications, from gentle limiting to heavy compression, while always maintaining a neutral, transparent sound. Its greatest appeal is its clean, vibrant sound.

The m103 also allows you to change the connection order, such as mic preamp → EQ → compressor, or mic preamp → compressor → EQ, allowing you to fine-tune the settings to suit your application. It's the highest quality sound tool on the market today, and can be called the perfect all-encompassing device.

■Fast, musical transimpedance microphone preamp circuit
■Uses precision 0.5% metal film resistors
■Uses a 12-position rotary gain switch
■High-performance line driver and HPF amplifier
■Includes ribbon microphone mode
■Precise 3-band EQ section (fully parametric mid, peak/shelf Hi/Lo)
■Newly designed optical compressor
■Microphone amplifier direct out
■Line input to EQ/COMP section
■Black anodized panel with leather trim
■Gold contact relay for Hi-Z input switching
■LED indicators (48V, ribbon mode, HPF)
■Two 10-segment meters (gain reduction and output)
■Made in the USA