Warm Audio WA-1B All-Tube Optical Compressor Overview
The Warm Audio WA-1B All-Tube Optical Compressor offers a sophisticated take on sought-after musical compression, elevated by an expanded range of speed and control parameters. It’s specifically designed for dynamic audio sources in need of that quintessential analogue warmth.
Precision and Faithfulness in Control
In a nod to its iconic predecessor, the Warm Audio WA-1B compressor maintains the classic controls that have earned it a revered spot in the modern studio.
Varied Threshold Adaptability
The WA-1B comes with an adaptable threshold, allowing for precise control over compression across a wide range of input levels.
From Gentle to Intense: The Ratio Spectrum
The ratio function on the WA-1B allows for fine-tuning, covering a range from a mild 2:1 to a powerful 10:1, offering varying levels of dynamic control to aggressive compression.
Flexible Attack and Release
The WA-1B’s unique Attack/Release controls enable a toggle between fixed and manual settings or a combination thereof. The device offers a unique release-time curve in the combined setting, setting it apart from competitors.
Metering Versatility
The WA-1B meter switch offers options to measure input, compression, and output levels, providing comprehensive visibility into your audio dynamics.
Uncompromising Bypass
The WA-1B features an efficient on/bypass switch for absolute signal integrity, ensuring no signal passes through the unit when bypassed.
Built with an Unwavering Commitment to Quality
Utilising a 270v circuit and through-hole circuitry, the WA-1B is built entirely of discrete analogue components. It’s infused with custom large-core transformers from Lundahl Sweden and select valves from JJ and Tung-Sol, resulting in an authentic, unmatched analogue experience.
Quality Assurance from Austin, Texas
Each WA-1B unit is rigorously tested by dedicated technicians deeply embedded in the music world. All testing is carried out in Austin, Texas, underscoring a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
- Accurately recreating world-class Scandinavian compression combining smooth tube-optical warmth with precision controls
- True-to-spec 270 volt, 100% discrete analog signal path - handwired with through-hole components
- Transformer-balanced fully floating input and output - Custom-core large transformers from Scandinavian Manufacturer, Lundahl in Sweden
- 12AX7 Tung-Sol & JJ 12AU7 tubes
- Frequency response @ -3 dB: 5 Hz to 25 kHz
- Self-Noise: < -75 dBU @ 30 dB gain
- CMRR: > 60 dB @ 10 kHz
- Ratio from 2:1 to 10:1
- Variable Threshold: Off to -40 dBU
- Continuously variable attack and release times: fast-slow
- Output gain: Off to +30 dBU
- Input impedance: 600Ω
- Two bus connectors to connect multiple sidechains
- Meter (VU) input, output, or compression amount
- Linear, low-noise power supply with toroidal power transformer
