ART Solo VLA

Product overview

The ART Solo VLA is a single-channel 1U rackmount compressor with switchable opto and FET voicings, a 12AT7 tube in the optical mode and a blend control for parallel compression.

The ART Solo Series is a range of all-analog, single-channel processors with flexible tone shaping, intuitive controls and the sound of real tubes. The Solo VLA offers switchable opto and FET voicings for smooth or punchy dynamic processing; the optical mode features a 12AT7 tube in the signal path for additional warmth. In addition to variable threshold, ratio, attack and release, a Blend control for parallel compression adds the fullness and sustain of the compressed signal while preserving the full dynamic range of the original performance. The compressor can be bypassed for easy comparison, and the switchable VU meter monitors gain reduction or output level: two classic flavours of compression in a single 1U enclosure.

Key features

• Studio quality audio signal path
• Selectable multi-voice tube / solid state control
• Hand selected 12AT7 tube
• Opto: analog optical isolators (AOI)
• Variable threshold and ratio controls
• Variable attack and release controls
• Variable blend for parallel compression
• Selectable level modes: +4 dBu / -10 dBV
• 20 Hz to 80 kHz frequency response (+0 / -1 dB)
• > 100 dB dynamic range (20 Hz to 20 kHz)

Parallel compression with the Blend control

The Blend control mixes the dry and compressed signals. A heavy amount of compression can fatten up a track while some of the original signal is mixed back in to retain its dynamics.

Soft-knee levelling and two voices

The Solo VLA is a soft-knee levelling amplifier by design: capable of dramatic compression effects, but designed to excel where transparent, musical dynamics control is wanted. The Voice switch selects the solid state FET compressor or the opto compressor with its Class A tube gain stage for warmer saturation. The ratio covers 1.25:1 to 20:1, attack 0.25 ms to 50 ms and release 150 ms to 3 s.

Metering and connections

A backlit analog VU meter displays either the output level or the gain reduction, with a mechanical meter trim. The rear panel has balanced XLR and 1/4 inch inputs for line level signals (10 kΩ), active balanced XLR and 1/4 inch TRS outputs (47 Ω), an I/O level switch for +4 dBu or -10 dBV operation and a fused IEC connector for the removable power cord. Microphones connect through a microphone preamplifier ahead of the Solo VLA.

Applications

ART names control of the dynamic range of line level sources, and vocal and instrument levelling: in a channel insert, after a preamplifier or in line with the direct output of a mixer channel. It can also work as a limiter with recorders, between a microphone preamp and signal processors, and between pre-amplified instruments and other line level equipment.

In the box

• Solo VLA multivoice compressor

ART Solo VLA: frequently asked questions

What does the Blend control do?

It mixes the dry and compressed signals for parallel compression, keeping some of the original dynamics.

What are the two voices?

An opto compressor with a 12AT7 tube gain stage and a solid state FET compressor, selected with the Voice switch.

Can I plug a microphone straight in?

No. The inputs are line level; ART states that microphones connect through a microphone preamplifier first.

Which mains voltage does it need?

ART's product page gives 100-120 V 60 Hz / 220-240 V 50 Hz.

Where can I buy the ART Solo VLA in India?

The ART Solo VLA is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Parallel compression on drums or bass

Engineers who want weight and sustain without losing transients.

Connections

Setup

1. Set a heavy amount of compression with Threshold and Ratio.
2. Turn Blend towards dry to mix the original signal back in.
3. Compare with the Comp switch.

Tip: Blend keeps the original dynamics while adding the fullness of the compressed signal.

Workflow 2: Vocal levelling after a preamp

Studios recording vocals.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the VU meter to Gain Reduction.
2. Lower Threshold from fully clockwise until the meter shows about -5 dB, then adjust for the desired amount.
3. Choose the opto (tube) or FET voice.

Tip: Microphones must connect through a preamp: the Solo VLA inputs are line level.

Workflow 3: Mixer channel insert

Live and studio mixers with insert points.

Connections

Setup

1. Set the rear I/O level switch to +4 dBu or -10 dBV to match the mixer.
2. Adjust Attack and Release for the source.

Tip: The I/O level switch changes the operating levels, not the overall gain.

Workflow 4: Limiting while tracking

Recording sessions where peaks must be held back.

Connections

Setup

1. Set Ratio to 10:1 or higher for limiting.
2. Set Threshold so only the peaks are reduced.
3. Set the Output level for the recorder.

Tip: ART considers ratios of 10:1 and greater as limiting.

Workflow 5: Instrument levelling

Keyboard, guitar and bass players with a preamp or DI.

Connections

Setup

1. Run the instrument into a preamp ahead of the Solo VLA for a stronger signal and less noise.
2. Use a longer attack to keep more of the instrument's attack.

Tip: Shorter release settings reduce the dynamics; longer settings keep them.

Workflow 6: Checking output level on the VU meter

Operators matching the Solo VLA to the next device.

Connections

Setup

1. Switch the VU meter to Output.
2. Set the Output control so the meter reads around 0 VU.

Tip: 0 VU corresponds to +4 dBu with the level switch at +4 dBu, or -10 dBV at -10 dBV.