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The WA-2A authentically reproduces the most sought-after vintage analog tube optical compression of all time. The gentle, “forgiving” application of compression from the optical unit combined with the rich tone of the output section provided by premium tube analog circuitry combine to deliver the most lauded “musical” compression that won’t suck tone out of your recordings. This style of compression is favored by legendary artists like Led Zeppelin, Jack White, Nirvana, Eric Clapton, The Beatles, U2, Prince, Pharrell Williams and many more.
The original 2A style of compression sets the standard for vintage-style analog dynamics control. When the performance requires gentle control, preserving dynamics and changes in volume on the track, the WA-2A shines as a streamlined 2-knob compressor with rich tube warmth in the output stage. Great for lead vocals, acoustics, electric/upright bass, orchestral work and more, the premium components paired with simple controls are perfect for when you want to preserve the great sound you’re hearing in the room.
Like the original 2A-style compressor, the WA-2A includes all the features that deliver a complete and professional recording experience.
The peak reduction control on the WA-2A applies the “amount” of compression from the 2A to the signal. This is on a percentage scale with “100” equalling 100%, which is 40 dB of gain reduction.
The output gain control adjusts the amount of makeup gain applied to the output signal. This is on a percentage scale with “100” equalling 100%, which is approximately 40 dB of makeup gain. Take care to monitor DAW or recording device input levels as you raise the makeup gain to avoid unwanted clipping.
This control adjusts the sidechain audio that directs the optical module to compress. Set all the way to the “flat line” image, the optical module responds to peaks across the full bandwidth of the audio source with no frequency filtration. As you move the control towards the “high pass line”, the WA-2A will become more responsive to high frequency transients and “disregard” some lower frequencies in applying compression.
The dedicated TRS stereo link input on the back of the WA-2A allows for quick connection between two WA-2As making stereo optical compression easy and intuitive. When linked, the linked 2As will share threshold response, so it’s important to manually match the front-panel controls, especially the output gain.
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