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Audio Compressors I have several options when it comes to compressors, I have a few DBXcompressors but the compressors I use the most in my Mastering Studios are the Universal Audio LA-3A which is an exact replica of the classic solid-state opto compressor that was first introduced to the world of recording and mxing in 1969. It is a an exact replica right down to the original board layout. In simple terms, a compressor is an automatic volume control, loud sounds over a certain threshold are reduced in level while quiet sounds remain untreated (this is known as downward compression, while the less common upward compression involves making sounds below the threshold louder while the louder passages remain unchanged). In this way it reduces the dynamic range of an audio signal. A comfortable listening level for quiet sounds by increasing the volume makes the loud sounds too loud. Compression is used in order to make both the soft and loud parts of a sound tolerable at the same volume setting. A compressor works by reducing the gain (level) of an audio signal if its amplitude exceeds a certain threshold. The amount of gain reduction is determined by a ratio. For example, with a ratio of 4:1, when the (time-average) input level is 4 DB over the threshold, the output signal level will be 1 dB over the threshold. The gain (level) has been reduced by 3 dB. When the input level is 8 dB above the threshold, the output level will be 2 dB; a 6 dB gain reduction. A more specific example for a 4:1 ratio: Threshold = −10 dB Input = −6 dB (4 dB above the threshold) Output = −9 dB (1 dB above the Threshold)
Universal Audio LA-3A Classic Audio Compressor At A Glance:
When the original LA-3A coompressor made its debut, it was a significant departure from the tube design of the Teletronix LA-2A. The solid-state LA-3A opto-compressor incorporated components and design concepts from the Bill Putnam designed 1176LN Limiting Amplifier. The LA-3A immediately became a studio workhorse and is still used today by those fortunate enough to have one. It's a favorite of engineers and producers worldwide for its unique compression characteristics and sonic signature. Now Universal Audio - the descendant of UREI and United Recording - as I preveiously stated has produced a "new" LA-3A that is in every way an exact replica of the original. Solid-state opto-compressor for thick, chunky tracks. Just like the original, the Universal Audio LA-3A Classic delivers a unique character the tracks, thanks to its electro-optical attenuator. The LA-3A was one of the signature sounds of 1970s rock and roll, adding just the right edge on electric guitars and handling vocals beautifully. Includes the design elements and components of the original. The Universal Audio Classics reissue of the LA-3A meticulously retains all the internal and external qualities of the original: the same simple control set, Class A design, and the T4 electro-optical attenuator, which is the source of the LA-3A's program dependent compression. It also retains the 2U half-rack design, and comes complete with a single-unit rack assembly - no additional kit is necessary. All the original rear panel connections and controls are also maintained. In addition, the widely used "LA-3A gain mod" is added as an additional switch for maximum studio versatility. The LA-3A features custom reissue UA transformers, a discrete, Class-A amplifier offering up to 50dB gain, and the noted design of ex-UREI engineer, Dennis Fink. Universal Audio LA-3A Classic Audio compressorfFeatures:
This is a great compressor and at $1,700, it is worth every dollar.
Universal Audio Leverler LA-3A
DBX Audio Compressor/Gate |
