Pro VLA II Two Channel Vactrol-based Compressor

4.2 (135)

$299.00

5.0 (38)

$1,179.99 1 available New

$350.00 8 available Used

£475.00

Price History

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Description

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Elevate your studio recording experience with the Pro VLA II Two Channel Vactrol-based Compressor, a versatile and high-performance tool for both budding and professional musicians. This powerful compressor shines in various settings, from mixing and mastering to live sound and broadcasting. Its VCA-free design ensures that your sound remains organic and musical, even as you dial up the compression.

What sets the Pro VLA II apart is its unique Vactrol-based compression, which provides smooth, transparent audio processing. The tube-driven circuitry adds warmth and depth to your tracks, making it an essential addition for anyone seeking a more dynamic and expressive sound. With independently adjustable output, ratio, and threshold controls, you can fine-tune your audio to perfection.

Connectivity is a breeze with its balanced XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs, allowing seamless integration into your existing setup. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Pro VLA II delivers reliability and exceptional audio quality.

Key Features:

Two-channel, tube-driven Vactrol-based compressor
VCA-free design for maintaining organic sound quality
Variable output, ratio, and threshold controls for precise audio management
Active balanced XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs for versatile connectivity
Ideal for mixing, mastering, live sound, tracking, and broadcasting
Adds warmth and depth with tube-driven circuitry

Product specs

Brand	ART
Model	Pro VLA II 2-Channel Vactrol Compressor
Finish	Black
Year	2009 - 2025
Made In	China
Categories	Compressors and Limiters
Electronics	Analog, Solid State

FAQs

What type of compression does the Pro VLA II use?: The Pro VLA II uses a Vactrol opto-compression design, which is known for its smooth and musical compression characteristics, making it ideal for both tracking and mastering applications.
Does the Pro VLA II have a tube stage?: Yes, the Pro VLA II features a tube gain stage that adds warmth and depth to the audio signal, enhancing the overall sound quality.
Can the Pro VLA II be used for mastering?: Yes, the Pro VLA II is optimized for mastering use, especially in stereo link mode where channel 1 acts as a master output level and channel 2 as a balance control.
What are the input and output options on the Pro VLA II?: The Pro VLA II offers active-balanced XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs, providing flexible connectivity options for various studio setups.
How does the Pro VLA II handle different signal levels?: The Pro VLA II includes a +4dBu/-10dBV mode switch, allowing it to accommodate both professional and consumer-level signal levels effectively.

Videos

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DV247 Music Store UK TV

Art Pro VLA II Demo And DAW Integration

DV247 Music Store UK TV

IS THE ART PRO VLA THE ULTIMATE CHEAP TUBE COMPRESSOR??

White Sea Studio

Gear Demo: ART Pro VLA II Stereo Compressor

Wandering Robot Studio

ULTIMATE VALUE! - ART Pro VLA II Review Including Vocals, Bass, Drums, & Mix Bus

askdrtk

zZounds.com: ART Pro VLA II 2-Channel Compressor

zZounds

ART Pro VLA II Tube Compressor - ART Pro VLA II

American Musical Supply

Get Big Studio Quality Compression for Cheap! Art Pro VLA 2

Johnny Posh

Ultimate PRO VLA II COMPARISON (Stock v. Carnhill Mod v. Cinemag Mod) "PART 4 The END"

SHUT UP AND RECORD!

Reviews

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PROS

Provides three-dimensional space and thickness to mixes
Exceptional for vocals and acoustic instruments, delivering warmth and low noise
Competes well above its price class, highly valued in professional studios
Equipped with VU meters for visual feedback
Dual mono and stereo link functions for versatile application
Adjustable attack and release for greater control on vocals
Transparent and neutral sound, especially effective on bass and guitars
Real tubes inside, offering potential for upgrades with premium tubes

CONS

Touchy controls; small adjustments can lead to significant changes
Link mode functionality is questionable
Might not provide desired response on drums without configuration adjustments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pro VLA II Two Channel Vactrol-based Compressor.

Software and compatibility

0 0

The Pro VLA II may not be the only compressor needed for a setup; digital alternatives can supplement with multiple compressors and limiters.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The Pro VLA II is considered suitable for studio setups but less ideal for live settings due to its rackmount nature.
Source
0 0

The Pro VLA II's compression and tube drive characteristics are not suited for distortion, focusing instead on compression and boosting capabilities.
Source
0 0

It's effective as a vocal bus "glueing leveler," maintaining volume without affecting song movement, but not ideal for mix bus purposes.
Source
0 0

It's possible to use the Pro VLA II with a stereo keyboard or mixer, running two channels through it to smooth out the audio.
Source
0 0

The Art Pro VLA II can be effectively used in a signal chain after a mixer and before a tape machine for analog synth recordings.
Source
0 0

Often used in room mic chains during drum sessions, adding a bit of "mojo" despite a less clean signal path.
Source
0 0

When chained with gentle compression, it works well on bass or vocals, adding a smooth sound quality.
Source

Comparisons

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Alternative rackmount options like the Behringer MDX2600 offer additional features such as a gate/expander, limiter, and de-esser.
Source
0 0

The Pro VLA II is described as a decent rackmount bus compressor with vactrol drive, contrasting with the Analog Heat, which is more of a distortion/color unit.
Source
0 0

Some owners consider the FMR compressors as alternative affordable options to the Pro VLA II for those seeking budget-friendly hardware.
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0 0

Compared to higher-end hardware, it lacks distinct sonic characteristics, but performs its basic functions well without introducing negatives.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

Unlike traditional compressors, the Analog Heat relies on an envelope follower with a 1:infinity ratio, limiting traditional compression control.
Source
0 0

Avoid using the stereo link function; dialing in channels separately retains better stereo field quality.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

The Pro VLA II is noted as a great value in hardware compressors, especially for beginners transitioning from digital to analog processing.
Source

User experience

0 0

One user reported significant improvements in sound quality after incorporating the Pro VLA II into a setup with the ART Pro MPA II Preamp and a Lewitt Pure Tube mic.
Source
0 0

Many owners mention it was their first hardware compressor, highlighting its role as an entry point into hardware compression.
Source

Critic Reviews

ART Pro VLA II

soundonsound.com

The ART Pro VLA II compressor delivers impressive performance at an affordable price, blending soft-knee compression with a warm vacuum tube sound. It's praised for its transparent gain control and ability to add musical character at higher settings. While it lacks some modern features like an external side-chain input and a wet/dry mix control, its solid construction, ease of use, and excellent metering make it a standout choice for budget-conscious musicians seeking versatile compression capabilities. Overall, it's a bargain for those who prioritize sound quality over extra features.

positive

Full Review

ART: Pro VLA II | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Pro VLA II impresses with its enhanced versatility and sonic character, echoing its predecessor's affordability and quality. While some lament the loss of the auto attack and release feature, the added controls offer a new level of aggression and midrange detail. The upgraded metering and intuitive layout, alongside a smoother sound and lower noise floor, make it a compelling choice for both novices and seasoned engineers. Despite minor complaints about tight XLR jacks and the absence of side-chain inputs, it remains a stellar value under $300, praised for its ability to add a polished compression sound across various applications.

positive

Full Review

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