AER Compact Classic Pro

Compact Classic Pro: the "classical" variant in the AER spirit

The Compact Classic Pro aligns with AER's philosophy: a compact, powerful, and ultra-faithful combo amp intended for musicians who want to amplify their instrument without altering its character. Compared to the Compact 60, this "Classic" version emphasizes the needs of classical instruments through an improved 2-way speaker system, a more precise equalization, and effect presets specifically designed for instruments with subtle harmonic textures.

The result: amplification that highlights articulation, breathing, and nuances, while reinforcing the low-frequency response in a controlled manner.

For which musicians and usage contexts?

The AER Compact Classic Pro is primarily aimed at classical guitarists (nylon strings) and all instrumentalists seeking hi-fi reproduction: solo playing, duos, chamber music, vocal accompaniment, or repertoires where dynamics and transients are essential. It is also well suited for musicians who switch between piezo pickups and microphones on the same instrument, thanks to its input management and dedicated mode.

With its 60 W power and quality DI-out, it performs well in studio, rehearsal, and small to medium-sized venues, while remaining easy to transport (only 7.7 kg). On stage, the DI output allows sending a clean signal to the FOH system, and the amp can serve as an extremely precise personal monitor.

Controls, connectivity, and key features

The Compact Classic Pro offers two complementary inputs: a combo XLR/6.35mm Jack input switchable between (piezo/line/mic) and a second 6.35mm Jack input (line or piezo), each with its own gain. For hybrid setups, the P/M mode facilitates direct connection of a piezo and an active electret microphone capsule, with phantom power selectable at 9 V or 48 V as needed.

On the sound shaping side, the 3-band EQ is designed for fine adjustments, featuring a parametric bass section with a Q-factor (bandwidth) control to precisely target a resonance, open up the low end without "bleeding," or tame a sensitive frequency in live conditions. The amp also includes a presence control to adjust attack and perceived brightness in the mix.

The 16 onboard effects provide atmospheres suited to classical instruments, and the PAN control allows mixing the effect portion to each channel to maintain a clear direct sound while adding musical depth. Finally, the connectivity is comprehensive (headphone, tuner out, insert, adjustable aux in, line and L/R outputs, parallel effects loop, footswitch), with a switchable, adjustable symmetrical DI-out pre/post effects to meet sound reinforcement requirements.

A sound designed for transparency and dynamics

The Compact Classic Pro is an acoustic amplifier with a very neutral reproduction: it emphasizes the character of the instrument rather than "pushing a colored grain." It delivers excellent definition in the highs (useful for harmonics, nail attacks, and arpeggio precision) and a more assured low end, designed to enrich the instrument's body without easily triggering feedback. The combination of the subsonic filter and adaptive limiter helps maintain a clean sound even when playing loudly or in challenging acoustics.

As classical guitarist Pat Coldric summarizes: "the AER Classic Pro amps are among the most transparent and faithful amplifiers to enhance a nylon/classical guitar, indoors and outdoors." An excellent foundation if you're looking for a compact combo capable of serving both as a main amplification system and a professional DI solution.

Technical specifications

Effects	Multi-effects	Number of speakers	1
Category	Guitar combo	EQ	3 channels
Effects loop	Yes	Headphone output	Yes
Cabinet impedance (Ω)	4 Ω	Color	Black
Category	Amplifier	Finishing	Black tolex
Number of channels	2	Power output	60 W
Speaker diameter	8"

Power	60 W / 4 ohms	Presence	presence control
Speaker system	2-way	PAN	distribution/mix of effect portion to each channel
Speaker	8-inch (200 mm) twin cone + tweeter	Digital effects processor	16 presets
Input 1	combo XLR / 6.35mm Jack switchable (piezo, line, or mic)	Analog processing	subsonic filter
P/M mode	direct connection for piezo + active electret microphone capsule	Aux in	adjustable
Phantom power	switchable 9 V or 48 V	Footswitch input	internal/external effect switching + channel mute
Adjustment	gain (Input 1)	DI-out	adjustable symmetrical XLR, switchable pre/post effects
Input 2	6.35mm Jack (line or piezo)	Dimensions (H x W x D)	260 mm x 325 mm x 240 mm
Equalizer	3 bands	Weight	7.7 kg
Bass	parametric with bandwidth (Q-factor) selector