Hotone Ampero II launches at Music China
Now with a built-in expression pedal
4,5 / 5,0 | 
The new Hotone Ampero II is the latest model in the popular Ampero range, following last year’s Ampero II Stage and the Ampero II Stomp.
Hotone Ampero II
This weekend is one of the largest music expos in the world, Music China, and the latest iteration of the Hotone Ampero II has just been announced at the show. It is being billed as The Second Generation CDCM HD Modeling & Multi-Effects Processor, which means more features and a new layout aimed at performance.
Second Generation
The Ampero II is the latest addition to the renowned Ampero series. It is a second-generation multi-effects processor that seamlessly blends the stage control of the original Ampero with the power of a new triple-core digital audio processing platform.
It uses ESS Sabre series AD/DA converters with 24-bit processing and a dynamic range of up to 127dB.
F.I.R.E.
It uses Hotone’s CDCM HD and F.I.R.E. digital modeling technology, which they have been developing and refining for several years. As I mentioned in the introduction, this new unit follows on from the popular and very affordable Ampero II Stage and Ampero II Stomp.
Expression & Control
Like the original Ampero, the Ampero II now has an onboard expression pedal weighing just 1.7kg. This compact unit can easily fit into your guitar gig bag, and having that extra control makes it more appealing for players, as it allows easy access to many parameters while playing.
Touch Screen
It also features a 5-inch dynamic colour touchscreen, so it should be easy to navigate. With both PATCH (preset) and STOMP modes, as well as four footswitches with colourful LED rings, users can customise the layout to match their playing style. Each preset can have up to four scenes, making it perfect for more complex performances.
Plus, users can select from different display options in each mode to find the perfect workflow.
Key Features
The unit has access to over 460 effects (12 different effects modules can be used), 93 amp models with 63 cab models, and supports IRs (Impulse Responses) up to 2048 sample points. It also comes pre-loaded with 20 Celestion-licensed speaker cabinet IRs and has 50 user IR slots.
Users can record up to 60 seconds of audio using the looper and use it to create tracks, or choose from 100 rhythm styles and a metronome. The looper also has Undo/Redo, Half-Speed, and Reverse functions.
Vocals and more
Connectivity includes stereo-balanced and unbalanced outputs, and an external expression pedal can be plugged into the unit for more even expression control. The right-channel combo input is for microphones and has 48V phantom power with up to 52dB of gain. There is also a selection of onboard vocal effects.
It also has full-sized MIDI IN and OUT/THRU ports and USB-C, so it will work with more complex rigs if necessary and can connect to a computer setup. Editing software is available for PC and Mac, allowing users to deep-dive and create more complex patches.
Verdict
The Ampero II is a fantastic choice for musicians who need a compact and powerful multi-effects processor. Its built-in expression pedal adds even more versatility, making it ideal for those who need to travel light. The Ampero II series is already well-loved, and this latest version is sure to be a hit among guitarists looking for a reliable and feature-packed live performance tool.
MSRP – TBC
More Information
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