Description
True to its inspiration; the WA-2A boasts an all tube, completely discrete signal path with through-hole component topology. It also features custom, large-core Cinemag input and output transformers, four premium vacuum tubes, and the legendary Kenetek opto-cell, considered by many to be the world’s finest.
No plug-in or other compressor type quite compares to the warm, forgiving, fluid qualities of this classic optical tube compressor. For decades, the renowned ‘2A type circuit has become the go-to device for seamlessly handling vocals, bass, and a wide variety of other instruments and program material in an effortlessly smooth way.
Releasing the WA-2A would be for nothing if we couldn’t make it affordable. Since the start of Warm Audio we have strived to give an unprecedented value to our customers, by putting high end audio within the reach of more people than ever before. This philosophy drives everything we do, and every product we offer.
Welcome to the future of vintage!
Features
- 2A Style, Transformer balanced, high voltage, opto (Light controlled) tube compressor
- Fully discrete signal path
- Utilizes custom USA made CineMag input and output transformers
- Utilizes USA made Kenetek opto attenuator. Socketed to allow for retro-fitting with other opto-cells
- Premium Tung-Sol and Electro-Harmonix tubes. 2x 12ax7, 1x 12bh7, 1x 6aq5 (or 6p1 - interchangeable)
- Variable Pre-emphasis, allows for compression hipass filtering
- Stereo-link capability
Specifications
XLR and TRS balanced line level inputs: 600 ohms impedance
XLR and TRS balanced line level outputs: 600 ohms impedance
Frequency Response: +/- 1 dB, 15 Hz to 20kHz
Gain: 40 dB ±1dB
Input Level: +16 dB maximum
Output Level: +10 dB nominal, +16 dB maximum
Distortion: Less than 0.1% THD at ±10 dBm
Noise: = -74dB
Attack Time: 10 milliseconds
Release Time: 0.06 seconds for 50% release; 0.5 to 5 seconds for complete release
Meter shows both dB gain reduction and dB output
Power: 115/230 volts (switchable), 50/60 Hz
Dimensions: 19" Rackmount chassis, 2U. 19" x 7" x 3.5"
Weight: 12 lbs
1 Review
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Phenomenal Quality for Price
I will keep this simple, for this style of compressor, I can’t imagine a better piece for the price. This is a straight forward unit. There is no hum or buzz and it is built very solid. The tubes in this thing do a great job of warming and adding character. You do have to calibrate the needle but it only takes seconds to do. Just my humble opinion, but if you are the curious type, YES, this blows compression plugs away. This is my second Warm Audio piece and I am very happy that I bought it.
