Teletronix LA-2A Classic Leveling Amplifier
The Universal Audio Teletronix LA-2A is the definitive optical tube compressor, hand-built in Santa Cruz, California to the same standards as the original 1960s units. For over five decades, the LA-2A has been the go-to choice for engineers worldwide thanks to its smooth, musical compression, tube warmth, and transparent gain reduction. With its legendary T4 electro-optical attenuator and point-to-point wiring, the LA-2A remains unmatched for vocals, bass, and countless studio applications.

Features

• True to the original Teletronix LA-2A design, built by hand in the USA
• Tube-driven electro-optical attenuator for smooth, natural compression
• Lag-free, distortion-free optical gain reduction
• Classic two-knob interface: Gain and Peak Reduction
• Frequency response: +0/-1 dB, 30 Hz to 15 kHz
• Gain up to 40 dB with distortion less than 0.5% THD
• Legendary compression heard on countless hit records for over 50 years
• Stereo linking capability for dual-unit operation
• Rugged 3U rackmount chassis with vintage-correct styling

Specifications

General
- Type: Tube optical compressor/leveling amplifier
- Construction: Handwired, point-to-point
- Tube Complement: T4 electro-optical attenuator, tube amplifier section
- Power Requirements: 35W, 120/240V, 50/60 Hz
- Dimensions: 19" rackmount chassis, 3U
- Weight: 13 lbs

Inputs/Outputs
- Input Impedance: 50, 150, 250, 600 Ω (selectable)
- Output Load Impedance: 50, 150, 250, 600 Ω (selectable)
- Connections: XLR and Jones Barrier terminals

Performance
- Frequency Response: 30 Hz – 15 kHz (+0/-1 dB)
- Gain: 40 dB ±1 dB
- Input Level: +16 dB max
- Output Level: +10 dBm nominal, +16 dB max
- Distortion: <0.5% THD (0.25% typical at ±10 dBm)
- Noise: 70 dB below +10 dBm output
- Attack Time: 10 µs
- Release Time: 0.06 s (50% release); 0.5 – 5 s for full release
- Metering: dB gain reduction and dB output