The Gainlab GLA-MP1 Bishop All Tube Channel is a versatile and feature-rich channel strip that delivers everything you expect from a premium-grade unit—and then some. At its core is a tube-driven mic preamp powered by three vacuum tubes, ensuring a warm and musical sound signature. Designed with flexibility in mind, it features front panel inputs for both microphones and instruments, while rear panel connections include switchable mic and line inputs. The Bishop also incorporates phase, polarity, and phantom power switches, along with a dedicated Drive control that adds character and harmonic coloration to instrument inputs. Its stepped gain selector offers two precise scales, enabling up to +60 dB of gain for a variety of applications.

Preamplifier Section

The preamp section is equipped with a three-tube circuit that delivers exceptional tonal warmth and detail. A stepped gain control with two selectable ranges (up to +60 dB) allows fine-tuned adjustments, making it suitable for everything from delicate vocals to high-output instruments. Inputs include mic, line, and instrument options, and the instrument input features a discrete Drive control for added tonal shaping. Phantom power, polarity inversion, and pad switches enhance the flexibility of this section, ensuring it adapts seamlessly to any recording situation.

Optical Compressor Section

The Bishop’s optical compressor is based on Gainlab’s signature “dual slope” design, taking inspiration from classic LA-2A-style compressors while introducing advanced features for greater control. The 2nd Slope control, positioned alongside the Threshold knob, enables a steeper release curve and higher compression ratios for dynamic versatility. The compressor also features three Character modes (Hard, Medium, and Soft) and a Timing control with five fixed release times plus an Auto mode. A selectable high-pass filter (80 Hz or 120 Hz) in the sidechain ensures the low-end remains intact. Additionally, the Dynamic Air Band switch enhances high-frequency content, adding sparkle and clarity to your mix.

Dual gain reduction meters provide visual feedback for both stages of the compressor, making it easy to monitor the amount of applied compression in real time.

Performance & Build

The Bishop offers a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz (±1 dB) with minimal distortion (THD+N <0.3% at 0 dBu), delivering pristine audio quality. Housed in a robust 2U rack-mount chassis weighing 11.4 lbs, the Bishop is built for professional studio use and road-ready durability.

Applications:

• Tracking

• Recording

• Sound Design

• Saturation

Key Features:

• All-tube preamp section for rich, analog warmth

• Fully balanced signal path

• Dual Slope Optical Compressor for advanced dynamic control

• Mic, instrument, and line-level inputs

• Selectable high-pass filters at 80 Hz and 120 Hz

• 48V phantom power, phase, and pad switches

• Instrument Drive for harmonic coloration

• Dual-ring stepped gain selector with Low Gain (+40 dB) and High Gain (+60 dB) modes

• Output VU meter for precise level monitoring

• Character switch with Hard, Medium, and Soft compression settings

• Timing selector with Auto mode and five fixed release times

• Threshold control and 2nd Slope adjustment for versatile compression curves

• Dynamic Air Band for high-frequency enhancement

• Dual gain reduction LED bars for real-time compression feedback

With its seamless combination of classic tube warmth and modern flexibility, the Gainlab Bishop excels in a wide range of applications, from vocal tracking to full-spectrum sound design. This all-in-one solution is a must-have for producers and engineers who demand uncompromising quality and creative versatility.