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Based on price data from 5 merchants for "ART Pro MPA II". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Immerse yourself in the essence of professional recording with the ART Pro MPA II, a versatile and affordable dual-channel tube mic preamp designed for the discerning home recordist and project studio. Elevate your sound with features tailored for dynamic versatility, including continuously variable impedance and an impressive 70dB of gain. Whether capturing the subtle nuances of vocals or the dynamic range of instruments, this preamp adapts effortlessly. Its onboard mid-side matrix opens up a new dimension in stereo recording, ensuring your projects stand out with clarity and depth. The ART Pro MPA II isn't just about amplification; it's about enhancing your sound's integrity, enabling you to toggle between tonal characters with the voltage switch and refine your audio with the sweepable high-pass filter. Direct inputs for instruments further underscore its utility, making it a stellar upgrade from standard interface preamps. Realize your sonic vision with the ART Pro MPA II, where quality meets versatility.
Key Features:
- Dual-channel tube microphone preamplifier for superior audio quality
- Continuously variable impedance for optimal microphone pairing
- Up to 70dB of gain, catering to all microphone types
- Onboard mid-side matrix for innovative stereo recording techniques
- Variable input and output controls with switchable high and normal plate voltages
- Sweepable high-pass filter to eliminate low-end rumble
- Dedicated direct inputs for instruments, enhancing versatility
Owner's manual
ART Pro MPA II User ManualProduct specs
| Preamp Type | Tube |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
| Analog Inputs | 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" (Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs | 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" |
| Frequency Response | 15Hz-48kHz |
| Rack Spaces | 2U |
| Height | 3.5" |
| Depth | 8.75" |
| Width | 19" |
| Weight | 10.5 lbs. |
FAQs
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What type of tubes does the ART Pro MPA II use, and can they be replaced?
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The ART Pro MPA II uses 12AX7 tubes, which are replaceable. This allows users to swap out tubes for different tonal characteristics or to replace them if they become worn.
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Does the ART Pro MPA II provide phantom power for condenser microphones?
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Yes, the ART Pro MPA II provides selectable phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones that require it.
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How does the variable input impedance feature of the ART Pro MPA II affect microphone performance?
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The variable input impedance (150 Ohms to 2400 Ohms) allows for flexible microphone voicing, enabling users to optimize the preamp's response to match different microphones and achieve desired tonal characteristics.
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What are the main connectivity options for the ART Pro MPA II?
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The ART Pro MPA II features 2 XLR and 2 1/4" inputs, as well as 2 XLR and 2 1/4" outputs, providing versatile connectivity for various studio setups.
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Is the ART Pro MPA II suitable for professional studio use?
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Yes, with its tube-based design, variable impedance, and dual-channel configuration, the ART Pro MPA II is well-suited for professional studio applications, offering high-quality preamplification for microphones and instruments.
Videos
Front End Audio
ART Pro MPA II Studio 2-Channel Tube Preamp
Reviews
PROS
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Comparable sound quality to more expensive units like UNIVERSAL AUDIO la 610
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Tube warmth and presence enhance acoustic guitar recordings
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Versatile with digital ADAT and SPDIF outputs
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Offers features found in high-end preamps at a lower price
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Input and output controls allow for tube saturation control
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Dual-channel functionality provides added value
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Noticeable improvement in sound with tube upgrades
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Solid build quality for durability
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Offers clear and warm sound for vocals and instruments
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M/S mode available for creative recording techniques
CONS
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Stock tubes are of low quality; many recommend immediate replacement
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Slight hassle with digital output synchronization for some setups
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Noise issues noted, especially at front Hi-Z input
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Missing parts or quality control issues reported (e.g., missing switches)
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One channel may be quieter or have a slight hum compared to the other
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Manual outdated or unclear regarding some features
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ART Pro MPA II.
Features and functionality
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The ART Pro MPA II has two gain stages: tube and opamp, with the opamp stage controlled by the output knob.
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Utilize the +20 gain button and high plate voltage for maximum tube gain and clean sound with high headroom.
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The impedance knob impacts tone significantly; higher settings enhance top-end frequencies while attenuating lows, especially effective with dynamic and ribbon mics.
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The MPA II includes a Mid-Side (MS) decoder, a feature often found in more expensive stereo preamps, offering unique stereo recording capabilities at this price point.
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User experience
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Some users find ART preamps, including the MPA II, can sound muddy with dynamic mics, though others report positive results with proper settings.
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Users report that tube upgrades offer subtle improvements unless the tubes are not biased correctly, impacting tonal differences noticeably.
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Comparisons
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In a blind test by SoundOnSound, the MPA II was rated favorably against high-end preamps like Neves and APIs, suggesting preamp choice may be less critical than mic selection.
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The ART MPA II has been noted to outperform significantly more expensive preamps in blind tests, highlighting its competitive sound quality.
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Mods and upgrades
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Users recommend replacing stock tubes with NOS Telefunken valves for improved sound, especially for male vocals and bass guitar.
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Some users report that tube upgrades have limited impact on distortion, suggesting the solid-state circuit may clip before reaching the tube stage.
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Gold Lion 12AX7 tubes provide a significant sound upgrade over Tung Sols, offering a balanced tonal profile suitable for various applications.
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JAN GE Blackplate 5751 tubes deliver a distinct, top-end heavy sound, pairing well with darker mics like the Shure SM7B.
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Amperex Bugle Boy and 70s-80s NOS GE JAN grade 12AX7 tubes are recommended for budget-conscious users seeking quality improvements over stock tubes.
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4.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 13 Ratings
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use ART Pro MPA II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.