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

About Us

Since 1993, we have been committed to equipping our customers with the very best gear, advice, and personal service anywhere. We believe that great sound can be achieved at any budget. We also believe that the ambitions of our customers should always come first. For us, it's about building long-lasting relationships, not just selling gear. And over the years, those beliefs have turned customers into friends and family. Whether you're just starting out, or a seasoned pro, we're here for you, no matter where your audio travels may take you.

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  • Analog Outboard Gear – 1 Year
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  • Digital Outboard Gear – 30 Days
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In addition to the manufacturer's warranty, Demo Deal and B-Stock items also come with an additional 1-year of warranty coverage from Vintage King, free of charge, so rest assured that not only are you saving big by purchasing a Demo Deal/B-Stock item, but you will also receive the same level of world-class support from Vintage King as with the purchase of a factory-sealed unit.

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