Aphex Channel Master Preamplifier and Input Processor

This is a versatile and good tool but not perfect. I had to use higher quality vintage tubes versus the stock tubes. Sounds better with the upgraded tubes. The Compressor on the unit offers very little flexibilty and hence, it's either it works or it doesn't work for you.

okay I know some people love this processor but I did not think it sounded as good as some of my other processors that costs much less. It looks good and it works okay but you can get something that sounds better for less $$$

I am involved with video and audio production in one of the hats that I wear. With APHEX CHANNEL, I have the same voice characteristics wherever I go, because I can take an RE320 mic and the APHEX CHANNEL to a studio, set, or other event, and just plug this into the audio chain. My voice virtually always sounds the same.The DE-ESSER works great, and so do the other effects. I could do without the 12AT7 tube (Jayce says it should still be going strong after 5 years of continuous duty), but it's part of the "warmth fad" going around these past few years, so if you don't have something that glows and produces useless heat, it appears you can't be in the high-end pre business these days.The compression has no pumping or high or mid frequency dropout. It is not harsh or thumpy. You will hardly notice it's there, unless you're looking at a VU meter, then you notice that your average audio or modulation is way up there. If you're in the broadcast game, this is exactly what you want.The voicing characteristics of this mic amp are what you are really paying for. I found that this unit can establish a unique sound presence for virtually every talent I've dealt with, and many are now looking to buy one to take on the road. Setup takes only a few minutes with a good pair of cans. Setup couldn't be easier, and the ability to actually control the depth of the gate is invaluable for me and prevents that sharp on/off cliff effect.

This thing is "The Bomb" and at a great price!.

I just finished a comprehensive review that I posted on YouTube. Be sure to search for "Aphex Channel vs DBX 286s".I've had the Aphex Channel on my wish list for a few years now. I finally found a deal and bought one (from Sweetwater). I'm not a pro Voice Over guy, but I have worked at 100,000 watt radio stations were we had a few DBX 286s for the DJs.Since I use this in a home office setting, I don't have a properly treated room and heavily rely on the Noise Gate. If you look at the Aphex Channel user manual, it states that the noise gate is not Chatty, however I have tested two units and they are indeed very chatty.The sound processing is top notch, but unfortunately I couldn't get past the noise gate issue. I REALLY wanted to keep it, but couldn't justify the difference in price compared to the DBX 286s since I also needed a Cloudlifter CL-1 to get enough gain for my Shure SM7B Dynamic Microphone to not close the Noise Gate on the lowest setting.If you have a properly treated studio and don't need a noise gate, this is definitely worth it. But if you only use this for your YouTube videos, you are better off getting a DBX 286s.