Tree Audio “3 In the Tree” 500 Series Chassis/Channel Strip Prototype Serial #1 Extremely Rare.

Up for sale is a very special Tree Audio 3 in the Tree Mono 500 Series channel-strip chassis — Prototype Serial #1 (TT01 500). This is the actual prototype unit that was displayed at the 2018 NAMM Show. I am the second owner.

If you know Tree Audio and designer Steve Firlotte, you know the level of engineering and build quality that goes into his equipment. This thing is built like a tank and loaded with top-shelf components throughout. The construction, switching, signal path, and power supply are on an entirely different level from a typical 500 Series rack.

The 3 in the Tree allows you to build an ultimate three-module analog channel strip in a compact desktop format. It holds three standard 500 Series modules and gives you considerably more control and routing than simply placing those modules in a conventional chassis.

Features include:

• Three 500 Series slots for building a custom channel strip (500 Series modules not included)
• Custom Tree Audio VU/Peak meter module
• Selectable VU and Peak metering
• 24-position stepped Elma output attenuator using 1% resistors in 3 dB steps
• Individual bypass switching for the 500 Series modules
• Insert switching for placing additional outboard equipment across the final output
• Built-in mono headphone amplifier with level and mute controls
• Inward Connections VF600 discrete amplifier blocks
• Custom Cinemag transformers
• Extensive relay-controlled switching
• Heavy-duty, extremely high-quality construction throughout
• External isolated linear power supply

The signal path is packed with the kind of components you would expect from high-end Tree Audio and Inward Connections equipment—discrete VF600 amplifier blocks, custom Cinemag iron, Elma switching, relays, and a serious external linear power supply. There was clearly no attempt to build this unit to a price point. The chassis and power supply are both in excellent condition and everything is fully functional.

I'm selling simply because I'm downsizing my studio. I own quite a bit of Tree Audio and Inward Connections equipment, and as magnificent as this piece is, I simply don't use it enough to justify keeping it. I'd much rather see this go to someone who will build a great channel around it and put it to work.

This is Prototype Serial #1, not a standard production chassis, and its history as the 2018 NAMM display unit makes it an especially interesting piece for anyone who appreciates Steve Firlotte's designs and Tree Audio/Inward Connections gear.

As many people familiar with this gear know, Tree Audio and Inward Connections are no longer in business, making pieces like this increasingly difficult to find. Given that this is Prototype Serial #1, combined with the amount of Inward Connections and custom Tree Audio hardware inside, this is truly a one-of-a-kind, irreplaceable piece of analog unobtainium. There simply isn't another one of these to go out and buy.

The sale is for the Tree Audio 3 in the Tree chassis, custom meter/output module, external linear power supply, and power cables.

Shipping is set at $150 because this is a substantial piece of equipment and it will be packed extremely well to make sure both the chassis and external power supply arrive safely. If the actual shipping and packing cost comes in under $150, I will refund the buyer the difference. I'm not looking to make anything on shipping—I just want to make sure this unit is properly protected in transit.

I have a perfect Reverb rating as both a buyer and seller. My equipment is well cared for, accurately described, and carefully packed for shipping.

Also, check out my other listings as I continue downsizing my studio. I'll be listing additional high-end analog gear from Tree Audio, Inward Connections, Avedis Audio, API, and more.

This is a rare one, so please feel free to reach out with any questions.