ART pro vla II

[derma_tek]

i just pre-ordered an ART pro vla II from sweetwater. i was told it should be shipping in april.

looks like the they added attack and release knobs and changed the tubes.
Applied Research & Technology: Tube Compression

i can't wait to try it out

anyone else excited?

[snüzz]

i'll look forward to reading your analysis! do you have or have you ever used a standard vla to compare with?

[PlugHead]

I don't know what kind of deal you got, but Long and McQuade (Canada) is currently blowing them out for $259 (cdn) so - dirt cheap.

I'm not familiar with this or it's predecessor. Drop a comment when you get yours - I might also get one.

Been waiting on the Chameleon Labs/SSL comp, but might have to jump sooner.

Best,

[derma_tek]

i've never used the version one of the vla. the lack of attack and release knobs was always a turn off for me, so i can't really compare the two.

looks like sweetwater is blowing out the version 1 for $199 if anyone is interested in that. i pre-ordered the version 2 for $299. seems like a good deal to me. i'll definitely update back here once i get it.

[chris carter]

I have the original (the later batch made in China, which most consider better than the earlier ones made in the USA... ironic). I got it for for something like $270 a year ago and I use it constantly. It's one of the most ridiculously underpriced and overperforming pieces of gear I own. It's strengths are bass and vocals. I've heard a lot of people saying they are great on drum room mics or overheads, but I've never really tried it. At the $199 dump price anybody would be a moron not to pick one up.

As for the new version... I'm curious to know how it will sound. The tube is the same as the original chinese version (american version was a 12AX7 - Chinese made version is a 12AT7). Seems like they have a new transformer which could obviously affect the sound. Otherwise, the big difference is the variable attack/release controls. The switchable has never bothered me with the original and it's the way the attack and release sound that I like. So I wonder if you set the new attack/release controls to the switchable settings of the original, if you will actually get the same sound or not.

[minus-sounds.com]

In Europe, Thomann sells them for 399 euros.
And the Digital MPA for 599 euros.

[ghetto3jon]

i agree, the original is terrific. the best thing ART ever did. i'd be very interested to hear if the II is even better. i know they aren't shipping for a while, but ASAP samples would be greatly appreciated.

[drycounty]

I might be alone here but if the circuit hasn't changed, why give it the "II" moniker? If all they did was update a few switches, tubes etc. just keep it the same name and make it a "second rev" or something. I don't like gear that dates itself, and anytime a company throws up a number after something just makes the move suspect.

Could you imagine using an 1176 XXV or something?

"New and improved" always just means "same great taste, totally new look and price!"

[ghetto3jon]

but it's same price...$299. so how can you complain?

[Ironklad Audio]

the pro VLA has been on my "to get when i have some extra cash laying around" list for a while now...and while it sounds tempting to jump on the VLAII, i don't know that it's worth an extra $100 to have more control over the attack/release times, especially when so many folks seemed to like the way it worked in the 1st place

if nothing else, i'm stoked that the price drop on the original will push used prices down to around $140-150.

[kozsak]

So, does the new version have more tubes? or just 2 12AT7's? I have an older USA version that I put 12AT7's in-Sounds great. I've never had an issue with the attack and release switches.

[Ironklad Audio]

i think the new guy's all about variable attack/release, shiny knobs, and an extra LED meter for the output

[BenJah]

But sadly no full plate voltage option. Arts pro channel has this option . It's kinda disappointing that they didn't bother to take the opportunity to add it to their compressor as well.

I used to own a version 1 pro VLA. I thought it sounded very spongey and dull and tended to rob life from the signal. Sold it and now use a buzz audio essence. Now Thats a comp

[66d35]

[quote=BenJah;1825662]

I used to own a version 1 pro VLA. I thought it sounded very spongey and dull and tended to rob life from the signal./quote]

Must have been a defective example, possibly a defective tube by the sounds of it, because I have one too and it is one of the most transparent comps around. At $199, that is crazy. You could pay 5X that and not get as good a compressor. I have some far, far more expensive things in the rack, and the 'ol ART VLA holds its head up with the very best of them. Very easy to set up, and overall performance is great - I personally prefer it to the RNC by quite a margin.

An absolute steal at around $200...

Andy

[BenJah]

I don't think it was broken. I've read a few similar comments from other threads. Different strokes for different folks I guess. I also own the RNC and find it well, really nice.

[asagaai]

Originally Posted by BenJah

now use a buzz audio essence. Now Thats a comp

Plus 1

Absolutely awesome piece of gear.

GJ
Newcastle/OZ

[chris carter]

Originally Posted by BenJah

I don't think it was broken. I've read a few similar comments from other threads. Different strokes for different folks I guess. I also own the RNC and find it well, really nice.

People should be aware that there were two different version fo the PRO VLA. The original was made in the USA and used a 12AX7. Then a few years later they started making them in China with 12AT7s and adjusted for the gain difference elsewhere in the circuit. You can tell which you have by the face plate screws. The American made version has hex screws; the Chinese versio nhas philips screws. Everyone who complains about it beign 'spongy', 'dark', 'dull' etc. is talking about the American version. The Chinese version doesn't have those problems. I would agree with what someone earlier said about the attack/release switches on the VLA never causing a problem. It made me a little nervous when I first bought it, but it's never been an issue ever. So I wouldn't get the PRO VLAII until I knew what it sounded like. Just the difference between the American VLA and the Chinese VLA has caused a lot of confusion over whether it's a good or bad compressor.

But f*CK ME, $199 for a VLA is the dumbest deal ever. I'd buy another one except I don't really have use for 2 more channels.

[MasterTrax]

Good old VLA, one of the best examples of sleeper gear I have yet to encounter.

For over three years I have relied heavily upon my VLA. It easily gets as much time in the signal path as any other comp I own, including a pair of 1176's, an La2a and an RNC. Uses have included vox, guitar tracks, synth, bass, percussion and mix buss. There is a velvety smoothness to it that none of my other comps can duplicate. Exchanging the stock tubes for a pair of old Amperex Globe logo 7025 tubes I pulled from a dead Fender Bassman has further enhanced the VLA's inherent musical qualities while slightly reducing hiss.

I am not saying it is a better overall comp than the others I use. I am saying that it has it's place and is a valuable tool in the rack.

I'm really looking forward to trying the new model II. I say Kudos to ART for adding the adjustable parameters while still keeping all the original features.

[apadua]

So did you get the PRO VLA II yet...

I have Version 1 and started using it on my mixx buss.. It would be nice to have controls over the attack and release...

$299 is a great price. Very curious on how it sounds..

[Chance]

I have the first generation of the VLA. Reciently there have been blowouts on the 2ch TC 300. The TC is great. It has many presets to get you in the ballpark quickly where you can fine tune. What I love about the TC is the parallel compression feature

[Mertmo2]

Funny, I have an original "american" version with the hex screws and I would NEVER describe it as "dull" or "dark". To my ears, it adds a nice silky top end sheen to whatever you put through it. My gut tells me that the tubes make a bid difference in the sound, despite it not being at full plate voltage. Maybe mine has different tubes than some others... but it's not dull or dark by any stretch.

My buddy has a chinese style old version, maybe we should a/b them.
I'd love to hear the new one, but I'm not sure I need two of these units.

[MattioliCo]

I saw the post and checked prices online for the ART VLA II, musician's friend has it on sale for only $199!!
I'm curious to hear how the VLA I sounds as well.

[kozsak]

I've heard both the American and Chinese versions. My original American series doesn't sound dull and spongy at all. It is smooth and rich. My buddies Chinese unit sounded kind of harsh and cold to both of us. Simply changing the tubes makes a big difference in both units. I currently run Phillips NOS 12AT7's in my USA model and it sounds great. It still sounds great with good 12AX7's too. Just a different flavor. I've had it for almost 10 years (?) with zero problems.

[Yung]

has anyone been able to compare the Art Pro VLA vs. the DBX 160a???

probably will be picking up one of the two to use with a presonus eureka and a sm7.

[Benmrx]

Are there any other noticable signs of what what was an "American" version vs. "Chinese" version, besides the Hex/Phillips screws. Any model numbers to go by?

[Corran]

Wow, I'm glad I found this thread. My school has one of these but it's the American version, and as stated I've always thought it sounded like crap.

I'll have to see if I can find a Chinese one...

[peeder]

Originally Posted by MattioliCo

I saw the post and checked prices online for the ART VLA II, musician's friend has it on sale for only $199!!
I'm curious to hear how the VLA I sounds as well.

You have confused the listings. They are blowing out version 1, and only taking preorders on version II.

I have a chinese v.1 that I retubed and I like it a lot.

[Bassmankr]

Here's what Musicians Friend had up on their site for the new model about the differences:


These are the differences between the Pro VLA and the Pro VLA II:

1. Enhanced Link mode
In link mode, CH1 output control acts as a master output level and CH2 becomes a Balance control. This optimizes the Pro VLA II for use as a mastering processor.

2. Active balanced outputs. The old VLA has balanced outputs that have 6dB more gain than when using them in the unbalanced mode. This shows up as an error when using the VU meter to compare the input and output level.

3. LED output meter.
a. Always monitors the output level allowing the user to view Both input and output levels at the same time. b. LED meter indicates both average level plus Peak hold.

4. Attack and Release knobs vs. switches. The Old VLA compressor has switches that allow the user to adjust the attack time between Fast" (~1mSec) and Normal" (~10mSec). The release switch can be set to normal" (200mSec) and Auto" (program dependant, but rather long an average).
a. Attack time as ranges from .25mSec to 50mSec b. Release time ranges from 0.15Sec to 3Sec. (This is program dependant at shorter release rates). c. Improved detector that lowers low frequency distortion at fast release rates.

5. Improved package
a. Rounded front panel machined to countersink all knobs and level meters. b. Re-enforced ears. c. Led lit switch caps. d. Heavier chassis and cover ruggedized for longer life on the road.

6. Lower noise.
a. +4dBu/-10dBv mode switch optimizes the unit for Pro OR consumer operating system levels. b. Toroidal transformer reduces mechanical and electrical hum. c. Tweaked Tube circuit for better dynamic range. d. Increased transformer shielding.

7. Increased ranges on Threshold and Output gain. This allows the user a wider range of operation.
a. Old threshold = -20 to +15, New Threshold range = -30dB to +20dB. b. Old Output gain max = +10dB, New output Gain = +20dB

8. LED lit VU meters. No more dark meters due to blown out bulbs.

9. All of the pots have detents.
a. Imparts a more professional feel. b. Makes settings more repeatable.

ART Pro VLA II Tube Compressor Specifications:

Dimensions: 3.50" H x 19.0" W x 9.17" D (89 mm H x 483 mm W x 487 mm D)
Weight: 10.5 lbs. (4.8 kg)
Input impedance balanced/unbalanced: 10K Ohms

Maximum levels:
Range switch: +4dBu/-10dBV selectable
Inputs: +20dBu (in +4dBu mode) / +10dBV (in 10dBV mode)
Output: +20dBu (R load > 10K, 0.1%THD)
Output Gain: +20dB max

Frequency response: 10Hz to 100KHz (+/- 0.5dB)

Dynamic Range: >100dB (20-20KHz)
THD: @ 0dBm Out <0.1% (typical)

Equivalent Input Noise (EIN)
@+4dBu: -99dBu ('A' weighted)
@-10 dBV: -107dBu ('A' weighted)

Attack time: 0.25msec. to 50msec. variable
Release time: 150msec. to 3 sec, variable
Slope variable: 2:1 to 20:1
Max. attenuation: 30dB
ART Pro VLA II Tube Compressor Features:

Vactrol Opto-compression design (No VCA)
Mastering-quality audio signal path with tube gain stage
Enhanced link mode
Variable threshold, ratio and output controls
LED backlit VU input/output level metering
LED metering indicates both average level and peak hold
Accurate ten segment LED gain reduction metering
+4dBu/-10dBV mode switch
Active-balanced XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs
Toroidal transformer reduces mechanical and electrical hum
While in stereo link mode, channel 1 level control acts as a master output level and channel 2 becomes a balance control between them-optimizing the Pro-VLA II for use as a mastering tool


By the way, they call the old one "Art Pro VLA 2" and the new one "Art Pro VLA II"

[Benmrx]

Originally Posted by Bassmankr

9. All of the pots have detents.

[Yung]

well i got mine first ver. today with an sm7.. still tryin to dail the sound in tho. anyone else happen to be using the compressor with a sm7 and getin a decent sound? what comp levels are you using on vocals?