Grace Design m103 Channel Strip - Precision and Versatility in One
The Grace Design m103 Channel Strip combines the acclaimed m101 mic preamplifier with a precise 3-band EQ and transparent optical compressor, delivering a powerful, all-in-one audio solution. Designed for engineers seeking musical clarity, this channel strip offers headroom, detail, and tonal control in a rugged 1U chassis. With flexible I/O, switchable EQ/compressor order, and exclusive Ribbon Mic Mode, the m103 is built to enhance any microphone or instrument, backed by a 5-year transferable warranty and made in the USA.
Pristine Mic Preamp Performance
At its core, the m103 features the fast, musical transimpedance architecture of the m101, with 0.5% precision metal film resistors and a 12-position gold-plated gain switch. Offering 10-65 dB for mics and -10-45 dB for Hi-Z inputs, it includes a 75 Hz HPF, 48V phantom power, and Ribbon Mic Mode (20 kΩ impedance, phantom lockout), ensuring compatibility with dynamic, ribbon, and condenser mics.
Musical EQ and Transparent Compression
The 3-band EQ uses single-stage parallel tuning for natural shaping from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with a fully parametric mid band and switchable peak/shelf modes for high and low bands. The optical compressor provides gentle limiting to heavy dynamics control with neutral transparency, adjustable from 1:1 to 12:1 ratio. Both sections can be used independently, with a switchable EQ/compressor order for workflow flexibility.
Comprehensive Features and Build
With a front-panel Hi-Z input, dual-function link/sidechain input for stereo or de-essing, and 10-segment meters for gain reduction and output, the m103 is intuitive and versatile. Its bombproof laser-etched anodized panel, sealed gold-contact relays, and built-in power supply ensure durability, making it a reliable studio workhorse for tracking, mixing, and live applications.
Key Features of the Grace Design m103
- Fast transimpedance mic preamp with 10-65 dB gain and Ribbon Mic Mode
- 3-band EQ: parametric mid, peak/shelf high/low bands (20 Hz-20 kHz)
- Optical compressor with 1:1-12:1 ratio, pre/post EQ switching
- Front-panel Hi-Z input and mic pre direct output
- Switchable EQ/compressor order and independent section access
- 10-segment meters for gain reduction and output level
- Link/sidechain input for stereo compression or external processing
- Laser-etched black anodized panel with sealed gold-contact relays
- Built-in 85-264VAC power supply, no wall wart
- 5-year transferable warranty, made in the USA
Technical Specifications
- Gain Range: Mic Input: 10-65 dB, Hi-Z Input: -10-45 dB, EQ/Comp Trim: -10 to +10 dB
- Preamp THD+N (22 Hz-22 kHz): <0.00085% (20 dB Gain), <0.0010% (40 dB Gain), <0.0050% (60 dB Gain) @ +20 dBu
- EQ/Comp THD+N: <0.002% @ 0 dB Gain, +20 dBu
- Intermodulation Distortion: <0.0020% (4:1, 7 kHz/50 Hz, 40 dB Gain Preamp or 0 dB Gain EQ/Comp)
- Noise (Referred to Input, 60 dB Gain):
- EQ/Comp Output Noise:
- Frequency Response: Mic: 3.7 Hz-140 kHz (-3 dB); Hi-Z: 1.2 Hz-112 kHz (-3 dB); EQ/Comp: 0.016 Hz-150 kHz (-3 dB)
- EQ Bands: Low: 20 Hz-750 Hz, Mid: 500 Hz-4 kHz (Q: 0.5-5), High: 3 kHz-20 kHz
- Compressor: Threshold: -15 to +15 dBu, Attack: 3-200 ms, Release: 0.03-3 s, Ratio: 1:1-12:1
- Impedance: Mic: 8.1 kΩ (Standard), 20 kΩ (Ribbon); Hi-Z: 2.5 MΩ/5 MΩ; Line In: 24 kΩ; Outputs: 350Ω (Balanced), 150Ω (Unbalanced)
- Maximum Output: +28 dBu (100 kΩ Load, 0.1% THD)
- Power Consumption: 14W Max, 85-264VAC
- Dimensions: H: 1.7” (4.3 cm), W: 19” (48.3 cm), D: 9.0” (22.9 cm)
- Weight: 4.5 lbs (2.05 kg)
