Behringer Ultra-Voice VX2000

The Behringer Ultra-Voice VX2000 is a legacy, single-channel analog microphone preamplifier and voice processor channel strip. Released in 2000 and heavily inspired by the architecture of the Focusrite Voicemaster, this 1U rack-mountable unit functions as an all-in-one frontend solution. It allows users to clean up, compress, and shape vocal tracks in real-time before sending the signal to an audio interface or hard-disk recording system. Features & Signal Chain Workflow The VX2000 layout processes audio signals through a sequential, dedicated vocal processing chain: • Discrete Vintage Input Stage: Provides adjustable input gain with a soft-mute function, a low-cut filter to eliminate low-frequency rumble, and +48V phantom power for condenser microphones. • Expander / Gate: Safely minimizes background noise, room reflections, or mic hiss during silent pauses between words. • Tube Emulation Circuitry: A built-in dial that introduces soft harmonic distortion to mimic classic tube warmth and saturation. • Opto-Compressor: Controls dynamic range using optical simulation circuitry. It levels out volume spikes for consistent vocal takes. • Voice-Optimized EQ & Enhancer: Features specific frequency bands tuned for speech and singing (including "Absence" control to target 4 kHz harshness). The dynamic enhancer adds top-end clarity and low-end thickness. • Opto-De-Esser: Targets and transparently reduces harsh sibilance ("S" and "T" sounds) without affecting the overall tonal balance. Technical Specifications Parameter Specification Form Factor 1U Rackmount (19" W x 1-3/4" H x 8-1/2" D) Frequency Response 10 Hz to 200 kHz (+0 / -1.6 dB) Total Harmonic Distortion Mic: < 0.02% / Line: < 0.002% Maximum Output Level +22 dBu I/O Connections Servo-balanced, gold-plated XLR and 1/4" TRS inputs/outputs, plus an external effect insert loop Power Supply Internal toroidal transformer with standard IEC mains connection Use Cases • Real-Time Broadcasting & Streaming: Ideal for live radio, amateur ham radio, podcasting, and streaming setups where audio must be fully polished with no software latency. • Hardware Tracking: Allows musicians to commit to a solid analog compression and EQ tone directly at the source, streamlining the mixing process later on. • It competes directly as an affordable alternative to the legacy dbx 286s and ART Pro Channel strips.