Art Pro Channel II

preamp lamp, optical compression, 4 band EQ, probably transistor.
The preamp has two lamps, one 12AX7 and one 12AT7 of Chinese origin.
Which can be interesting with rack is possible to divide it into these modules.
I said, an output (unbalanced) direct the preamp, input (unbalanced) in the compressor output (unbalanced) compressor and an input (unbalanced) in the equalizer.
This also helps achieve effects loops that are placed where you want in the chain.
The XLR microphone input is variable impedance of 150 Ohms at 3k Ohms, a high impedance instrument input panel. No entry online!
XLR and jack output variable level (-10 dB & 4)
seen first hand meter or post due to the compressor or master.
2 meter LED seen, one attributed to the preamp and the other "gain reduction".

UTILIZATION

Manual enough.
Getting started very fast.

SOUND QUALITY

a preamp that transparent price that does not exist, but with quality lamps that provides good color, though! and personal is what I ask.
no audible breath
the compressor is not high quality, used in small quantities it is quite correct.

OVERALL OPINION

VERY good value for money, it warms up a digital keyboard sound!

What technology is used? (Analog, digital, lamp ...) lamp

What is the connection? : XLR and TRS input and output. A jack on the front, very convenient.

What are the effects or types of effects available? : This is a channel strip: preamp, comp, eq

Is it a rack or rack-mount model? 19 "2U. The craft exudes strength and reliability. Besides the look is very nice

UTILIZATION

The configuration is it simple? : Simple operation, the screen is very readable, the buttons are spaced far enough apart, everything is well organized. No complaints.

Gets it easy to sound good? Yes, it is very simple, even without touching the setting are right there is. Well now, look, I'm not a sound engineer, but a composer ...

The manual is clear and sufficient? : The manual is very clear and complete. Personally I find it absolutely essential because it is the first time I use a channel strip and some functions still elude me a bit ...

SOUND QUALITY

The sound of your instruments or your microphone is properly reproduced? Yes, the sound is clear and the lamp brings a softness and undeniable warmth (I use a condenser microphone, a guitar electro-acoustic and an electric soon, thank you jack the front!)

OVERALL OPINION

How long have you been using? 6 months

What is so special that you like most and least? :
And durable
+ Clarity of the interface
+ Effective when it is plugged

-??

Did you try many other models before buying it? : This is my first real independent preamp (before I used those sound cards)

How do you rate the quality / price? : I bought the pro channel at Thomann I, but he made a mistake on my order (apparently they served another customer before me and there was only one copy ...) they sent me the channel pro II ... So price / quality ratio nickel!

Yes I remake this choice without doubt