Warm Audio WA-2A compressor/limiter/gate Compressor & gate

Warm Audio WA-2A Tube Optical Compressor

The Warm Audio WA-2A reproduces the classic 2A-style tube optical compressor and leveling amplifier, valued for gentle, musical compression that keeps the tone of the source. With just peak reduction and output gain, it suits lead vocals, acoustic instruments, electric and upright bass and orchestral recordings.

The fully discrete, high-voltage circuit uses CineMag USA input and output transformers, a socketed USA-made Kenetek T4-style opto cell and 12AX7, 12BH7 and 6AQ5 (or 6P1) tubes. A variable pre-emphasis control makes the compression react more to high frequencies, and two units can be linked for stereo via a TRS connector.

Key features

• Peak reduction (up to 40 dB of gain reduction) and output gain controls
• Variable pre-emphasis (sidechain high-pass) control
• Stereo link via TRS connector
• Meter showing gain reduction or output level
• CineMag USA input and output transformers
• Socketed Kenetek T4-style opto cell
• Tubes: 2 x 12AX7, 1 x 12BH7, 1 x 6AQ5 or 6P1

Specifications

• Inputs/outputs: XLR and TRS balanced line level, 600 ohms
• Gain: 40 dB +/- 1 dB
• Frequency response: 15 Hz - 20 kHz +/- 1 dB
• Input level: +16 dB max
• Output level: +10 dB nominal, +16 dB max
• Distortion: < 0.1% THD at +/- 10 dBm
• Noise: -74 dB
• Attack: 10 ms; release: 0.06 s for 50%, 0.5 - 5 s for full release
• Power: 115/230 V switchable, 50/60 Hz
• Format: 19" rack, 2U; chassis depth 17.5 cm