2A Style Optical Compressor

No plug-in or other compressor type quite compares to the warm, forgiving, fluid qualities of the classic '2A optical compressor. For decades, the renowned '2A style 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 it wasn't affordable. Since the start of Warm Audio, Warm has striven to give unprecedented value to its customers, but putting high-end audio within the reach of more people than ever before. This philosophy drives everything they do, and every product they offer.

Premium Components:

The WA-2A is a high-voltage, Class-A opto-compressor, utilizing large-core CineMag USA Transformers, four premium vacuum tubes, and the legendary Kenetek opto-cell -considered by many to be the world's finest.

A Four Tube Operation

The WA-2A operates on four tubes: two 12AX7s, one 12BH7, and one 6aq5 (or 6P1J). We proudly use Tung-Sol and Electro-Harmonix brand tubes in the signal path, which sound very Å“open and LARGE. All four tubes are socketed for easy swapping and replacement.

Technical Specifications:

Product Description & External Specs:

• 2A-Style, Transformer Balanced, High Voltage, Opto Tube Compressor​.
• Variable Pre-Emphasis, Allows For Compression High Pass Filtering (Tone Control).
• Stereo-Link Capable Via TRS Connector.
• XLR & TRS Balanced Line Level Outputs - 600 Ohms Impedance.
• XLR & TRS Balanced Line Level Inputs - 600 Ohms Impedance.
• Meter Displays Both dB Gain Reduction & dB Output.
• Power - 115/230 Volts (Switchable), 50/60 Hz.
• Dimensions - 19" Rackmount Chassis, 2U. 19" X 7" X 3.5".

Components & Internal Specs:

• Utilizes Premium Grade Input & Output Cinemag USA Transformers.
• USA-Made Kenetek Opto-Cell Attenuator T4-Style Module. Socketed To Allow Retro-Fitting With Other Opto-Cells.
• Premium Tubes. (2X) 12AX7, (1X) 12BH7, (1X) 6AQ5 or 6P1.
• Fully Discrete Signal Path.

Performance Specs:

• Input Impedance - 600 Ohms, Bridges-T Control (Floating).
• Frequency Response +/- 1 dB, 15 Hz to 20 kHz.
• 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 = -74 dB.
• Attack Time - 10 Milliseconds.
• Release Time - 0.06 Seconds For 50% Release - 0.5 To 5 Seconds For Complete Release.