ART Pro VLA II

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ART Pro VLA II

ART

Pro VLA II

4.4 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 188550
Brand: ART
Model: Pro VLA II
Price: $658.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The ART Pro VLA II is a surprisingly capable and characterful compressor. It’s perfect for adding warmth and glue to stereo mixes, drum buses, or vocals – especially in genres like rock, blues, and soul where a vintage vibe is desired. It's a solid, affordable option for anyone wanting a taste of classic tube compression.

Product Description

  • ART Pro VLA II
  • 2-Channel tube opto-compressor
  • Adjustable threshold
  • Ratio and Attack
  • + 4dBu/-10 dBu mode switchable
  • Backlit VU meter
  • LED meter for peak hold
  • Balanced XLR and 6.3 mm inputs and outputs
  • Design: 19"
PROS
  • • Warm tube coloration adds pleasing harmonic richness
  • • Opto-compression provides smooth, musical dynamic control
  • • VU meters offer accurate gain staging and visual feedback
  • • Robust 19in rackmount design for studio or live use
CONS
  • • Limited flexibility compared to more complex digital compressors
  • • Tube circuitry demands occasional maintenance and warm-up time
  • • High headroom can be challenging with very dynamic signals

Product Video

Key Features

Type Tube Opto-Compressor
Channels 2
Controls Threshold, Ratio, Attack, +4dBu/-10dBu Switch
Connections Balanced XLR, 6.3 mm TRS
Metering VU Meter, Peak Hold LED
Weight Approximately 12 lbs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Opto compression is generally more forgiving and 'musical,' reacting slower and more subtly to transients, creating a smoother, less aggressive dynamic reduction.
Yes, matching the input/output levels to your gear’s operating level prevents clipping or excessively low signal levels, ensuring accurate compression and a clean signal.
While it can be used, it's better suited for tracking or mixing due to its coloration. It's not as transparent as compressors designed specifically for mastering applications.

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