Run a mic, an instrument or a line-level source through it, and the Tubestrip will handle the rest – preamp, EQ, compression and de-essing in a single chain.
Heritage Audio has launched the Tubestrip, a 3U all-tube channel strip that combines a tube preamp, inductor EQ, Vari-Mu compression and a de-esser in a single rack unit.
The preamp accepts mic, instrument and line-level sources and runs on NOS (New Old Stock) vintage tubes. Heritage Audio describes it as having “morphing capabilities” – a variable tonal character adjustable to the source. Four custom-wound transformers sit at the input, output and both sides of the Vari-Mu stage, keeping the signal transformer-coupled throughout.
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At a glance
- All-tube signal path from input to output
- Tube preamp accepting mic, instrument and line-level sources, with variable tonal character
- Inductor-based EQ – uses coils rather than capacitors for a musical, characterful response
- Vari-Mu tube compressor based on the Lang P.LANE circuit, with Seawell mode for an additional compression character
- Single-knob 1B mode for fixed, transparent compression
- De-esser for sibilance control
- NOS vintage tubes for preamp and Vari-Mu stages; JJ tubes for the output
- 4 x custom-wound transformers (input, output, Vari-Mu in/out)
- Universal power supply built in
- 3U rack unit, 7.6 kg
Compression comes from a full Lang P.LANE Vari-Mu circuit, with the Seawell mode built in as an additional character option. Vari-Mu is a tube-based compression approach where the ratio shifts with signal level, giving a program-dependent response that works well across a wide range of material. A separate single-knob 1B mode delivers fixed, transparent compression for more controlled results. The EQ section uses inductors rather than capacitors for a characterful response typical of classic outboard designs.
De-essing rounds out the four processors, handling sibilance without needing a separate unit in the chain. The full signal path stays in the tube domain from input to output.
NOS tubes handle the preamp and Vari-Mu stages, JJ tubes cover the output, and four custom-wound transformers run throughout.
Heritage Audio describes the Tubestrip as its most ambitious outboard piece to date, and it’s easy to see why.
Learn more at Heritage Audio. For local enquiries, head here.
