ART Phantom I Single Channel 48V Phantom Power Supply

The ART Phantom I is a single-channel 48V phantom power supply for condenser microphones. It is for podcasters, home recordists, live engineers and video creators whose mixer, recorder or preamp has an XLR input but no phantom power, and who still want to use a condenser mic.

Do you need the ART Phantom I?

Condenser microphones contain electronics that need power, which normally comes from the device they plug into as “phantom power”. Most current audio interfaces and mixers already provide 48V. The Phantom I is the answer when yours does not, for example:

• An older or compact mixer without phantom power
• A field recorder, camera audio adapter or wireless transmitter with an XLR input but no 48V
• An outboard or vintage mic preamp that has no phantom switch
• A device whose phantom power is weak or noisy

If your interface or mixer already has a working 48V switch, you do not need this unit.

How it connects

The Phantom I sits in line between your microphone and your input device. Run an XLR cable from the mic to the Phantom I’s XLR input, then another XLR cable from its output to your mixer, recorder or preamp. Plug in the included 18V DC adapter and the mic receives a steady 48V while the audio passes through to your device. Leave phantom power switched off on the receiving device if it has its own.

Clean, quiet power

The output is held at 48V DC, give or take 2V, and the unit is specified for output noise of -115 dBV, so it adds no audible hiss of its own. A 10 Hz to 25 kHz frequency response means the full range of your microphone passes straight through.

What voltage does your mic need?

Condenser mics are specified for phantom voltages ranging from 9V up to 48V. As a general rule, a mic performs best at or above its rated voltage, and more voltage is usually fine:

• 48V mics: perform as designed on the Phantom I.
• 12V–24V mics: generally run normally on 48V.
• 9V mics: many accept 48V, but confirm with the microphone’s maker before connecting.

Who is it for?

• Good fit: anyone using a condenser mic with gear that lacks phantom power, such as older mixers, cameras and field recorders.
• Good fit: live engineers who need one extra phantom-powered channel at short notice.
• Not needed: dynamic microphones such as most stage vocal mics, and USB microphones. Neither uses phantom power.
• Use with care: ribbon microphones. Many modern ribbons tolerate phantom power, but some older designs can be damaged by it or by faulty cables. Check your ribbon mic’s manual first.

Phantom I vs Phantom II Pro

ART also makes the Phantom II Pro, a two-channel phantom supply that can run on batteries as well as an adapter. Choose the Phantom I if you need power for a single mic and always have mains power nearby. Choose a two-channel or battery-capable unit for stereo recording or for field work away from a power point. Browse more microphone accessories, or find a mic to pair it with in our condenser microphones.

Key Features

• Single-channel 48V phantom power supply
• XLR female input, XLR male output
• Output phantom power 48V DC ±2V
• -115 dBV output noise
• 10 Hz – 25 kHz frequency response
• Runs from the included 18V DC adapter
• Compact, sturdy enclosure

Why buy from 10dB

Orders leave the 10dB warehouse the same day as your purchase and travel by Australia Post, usually arriving within 3–5 days. If you are upgrading your input instead, see our microphone preamps with built-in phantom power.

FAQ

Does the ART Phantom I run on batteries?

No. It runs from the included 18V DC adapter. ART’s Phantom II Pro is the model to look at if you need battery power.

Can I use the ART Phantom I with a 24V or 12V condenser mic?

Usually, yes. Mics rated for lower phantom voltages generally run on 48V. For 9V mics, check with the manufacturer first.

Will it work with a dynamic mic like an SM58?

A dynamic mic does not need phantom power, so you do not need the Phantom I for it. Most balanced dynamic mics are not harmed by phantom power, but there is nothing to gain from it.

Can I use it with a USB microphone?

No. USB microphones are powered by the USB connection and have no XLR input for phantom power.

Will it add noise to my recordings?

It is specified for -115 dBV output noise, which is well below what you would hear in a normal recording.

Can I power two mics with it?

No. It has one input and one output for a single microphone. For two mics, use two units or a two-channel supply.