A channel strip is basically a single mixer channel that, in addition to a high-quality preamp, often features an equaliser as well as a built-in compressor, giving you the sound of a high-end mixing desk in the form of a compact, 19" rack-mountable unit.
An Upgraded Mic Preamp
A channel strip usually comes in the form of a microphone preamp packed out with an equaliser, a compressor and sometimes even a de-esser. Channel strips help make vocals and instruments sound polished from the start, reducing the amount of work needed later on in the mixing phase. Since tools like compressors and de-essers come with their own meters, the front panel of the average channel strip usually looks a bit crowded.
Vocal Recording Done Right
Recordings vocals is a skilled job that starts with picking out the right microphone and fine-tuning the frequency response using an equaliser. Since vocals are essentially the most dynamic instrument there is, you're always going to need a little compression - an effect that usually also eases the recording phase. Meanwhile, a channel strip with a built-in de-esser can also help rein in any sharp S-sounds. A bit of processing also benefits instruments such as guitars, bass guitars and drums.
Vintage Consoles in Rack Form
Want legendary sound but can't accommodate or afford a 96-channel vintage mixing desk? No worries. Nowadays, even big names like API, Rupert Neve Design and SSL serve up channel strips based on their priceless consoles.
Channel Strips with Digital Outputs
If you're running an audio interface equipped with digital inputs (e.g. S/PDIF, ADAT or AES/EBU), it's worth going for a channel strip that has been outfitted with a digital output since it would set you up with additional inputs.
