Universal Audio LA-2A Electro-Optical Classic Compressor

The Universal Audio LA-2A is a recreation of the legendary Teletronix LA-2A developed in the 1960s. Famous for its smooth, musical response and clean yet characterful tone, this iconic compressor is a go-to for achieving thick vocals, fat bass tones, and more. With its tube-driven electro-optical design, program-dependent response, and simple two-knob operation, the LA-2A is an indispensable studio tool.

ELECTRO-OPTICAL ATTENUATION CIRCUIT

The standout feature of the LA-2A is its electro-optical attenuation circuit, which is based around the acclaimed T4 photocell. Triggered by light rather than pure electrical voltage, the LA-2A is fully program-dependent, delivering smooth, musical compression for any source. The tube-driven amplifier circuitry adds a touch of warmth while retaining a clean output signal with extremely low Total Harmonic Distortion.

EASY-TO-USE CONTROLS

Ease of use is another hallmark of the LA-2A. With just two primary controls — Peak Reduction and Gain — users can quickly dial in the desired amount of compression and output level. A three-position switch changes the action of the VU meter to display gain reduction or output levels.

SOUNDS GREAT ON EVERYTHING

Versatility is a key strength of the LA-2A, making it suitable for a wide range of instruments and genres. It excels at clean, transparent leveling for vocals and bass guitars, but it’s also capable of delivering a warm, harmonically rich sound when pushed harder. This flexibility makes the LA-2A a solid choice for almost any task, from subtle leveling to more aggressive compression.

MADE IN THE U.S.A.

Universal Audio hand-builds each LA-2A in the brand’s Santa Cruz, California Custom Shop, using identical components and painstaking old-fashioned manufacturing techniques in order to deliver undeniably warm, rich, and inspiring sound. This commitment to quality guarantees that each new LA-2A will continue to deliver authentic sound for many years, just like the many revered vintage units still in use today. Whether you're a professional studio owner or a passionate home recordist, the Universal Audio LA-2A Leveling Amplifier is an investment in timeless sound quality and reliable performance.

UNIVERSAL AUDIO LA-2A FEATURES:

• Recreation of the legendary Teletronix LA-2A tube-driven electro-optical attenuation circuit
• Smooth, musical gain reduction with program-dependent response perfect for thick vocals
• Simple two-knob operation (Peak Reduction and Gain) dials in desired amount of compression and output level
• Less than 0.5% total harmonic distortion
• Adjustable VU metering with three-position switch to display gain reduction or output levels
• Meticulously crafted with authentic, high-quality components
• Faithful to the original specifications and performance
• Durable construction for long-lasting use
• Hand-wired point-to-point in Santa Cruz, California

TECHNICAL DETAILS:

• Input impedance: 50, 150, 250, 600 ohms
• Output load impedance: 50, 150, 250, 600 ohms
• External connections: Jones Barrier terminals and XLR connectors
• Frequency response: +0/-1 dB 30 Hz to 15kHz
• Gain: 40 dB ±1dB
• Input level: +16 dB maximum
• Output level: +10 dB nominal, +16 dB maximum
• Distortion: Less than 0.5% THD (0.25% typical) at ±10 dBm
• Noise: 70 dB below +10 dBm output level
• Attack time: 10 milliseconds
• Release time: 0.06 seconds for 50% release; 0.5 to 5 seconds for complete release
• Meter: dB gain reduction and dB output
• Power requirements: 35 watts, 120/240 volts, 50/60 Hz