WARM AUDIO WA-2A OPTICAL TUBE COMPRESSOR

Some Background On The Warm Audio WA-2A Optical Tube Compressor.

Warm Audio is a company known for creating affordable yet high-quality analog audio equipment, including microphones, preamps, and compressors. One of their notable products is the Warm Audio WA-2A, which is an emulation of the classic Teletronix LA-2A tube optical compressor. The history of the Warm Audio WA-2A involves the company’s mission to provide musicians and audio professionals with access to vintage-style studio gear at a fraction of the cost of original vintage units.

Here’s a brief history of the Warm Audio WA-2A:

1. Formation of Warm Audio: Warm Audio was founded in 2011 by Bryce Young, a musician and engineer with a passion for vintage audio equipment. The company’s mission was to recreate classic studio gear with modern manufacturing techniques, making it more affordable and accessible.
2. Emulating the Teletronix LA-2A: The Teletronix LA-2A is a legendary tube optical compressor known for its smooth and musical compression. However, original vintage LA-2A units can be expensive and hard to come by. Warm Audio recognized the demand for a more affordable alternative and set out to create the WA-2A, an homage to the classic LA-2A.
3. Development and Design: Warm Audio engineers and designers meticulously studied the original LA-2A circuit and components to recreate the essence of the classic unit. They used modern manufacturing techniques to build the WA-2A, including carefully selecting components and using custom CineMag transformers to replicate the original sound.
4. Affordability and Accessibility: The Warm Audio WA-2A was designed with affordability in mind, making it accessible to home studios, project studios, and musicians who might not have the budget for vintage studio equipment. It offered a balance between quality and cost.
5. Release and Reception: The Warm Audio WA-2A was officially released to the market, and it quickly gained a reputation for delivering the warm, smooth compression characteristics of the original LA-2A. It became a popular choice for recording vocals, bass, and other instruments.
6. Expanding Product Line: Following the success of the WA-2A, Warm Audio continued to develop and release a range of other audio equipment, including microphones, preamps, and other compressors, all inspired by classic vintage gear.

The Warm Audio WA-2A, as part of the company’s product lineup, reflects the growing demand for affordable yet high-quality analog studio equipment that brings the vintage warmth and character of classic gear to modern recording and production environments. It has allowed a new generation of musicians and engineers to access the rich sound of a vintage LA-2A-style compressor without breaking the bank.

The Warm Audio WA-2A Optical Tube Compressor In Review.

Features And Specifications Of The Warm Audio WA-2A Optical Tube Compressor.

Features:

1. Optical Compressor Design: The WA-2A is an optical tube compressor based on the classic Teletronix LA-2A design, known for its smooth and musical compression.
2. Dual-Channel Mono and Stereo Operation: The WA-2A can function as a dual-channel mono compressor or be linked for stereo operation, making it suitable for a wide range of audio sources.
3. T4B Optical Attenuator Cell: The WA-2A employs a genuine T4B optical attenuator cell, similar to the original LA-2A, to control gain reduction optically, providing a natural and transparent compression character.
4. Vacuum Tube Circuitry: It features all-tube circuitry with dual 12AX7 and 12BH7A tubes, adding a warm and harmonically rich tone to the audio signal.
5. High-Quality Components: Warm Audio uses high-grade components and custom transformers to maintain the vintage character and audio quality of the original LA-2A.
6. User-Friendly Controls: The controls are straightforward, with only two knobs: Gain and Peak Reduction, making it easy to dial in the desired compression settings.
7. VU Meter: The front panel features a classic-style VU meter with selectable GR (gain reduction) and output level display, allowing you to monitor compression levels and overall output.
8. Balanced XLR and 1/4″ Inputs and Outputs: The unit is equipped with balanced XLR and 1/4″ TRS inputs and outputs for flexible connectivity with various studio and live sound setups.
9. Rugged Build: The WA-2A is built to last with a robust and elegant design, including vintage-style chickenhead knobs.
10. Linkable Stereo Operation: The WA-2A can be easily linked to another unit for stereo operation, enabling consistent compression for stereo signals.

Specifications:

1. Input Impedance: 600 ohms, balanced
2. Output Impedance: 300 ohms, balanced
3. Frequency Response: 15 Hz to 40 kHz
4. Maximum Gain: 40 dB
5. Maximum Peak Reduction: 40 dB
6. Distortion:
   • THD: < 0.3%
   • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > 70 dB
7. Power Requirements: Standard IEC AC inlet with switchable voltage (115V/230V)
8. Dimensions: 2U rackmount, standard 19″ width
9. Weight: Approximately 10.9 kg (24 lbs)

The Warm Audio WA-2A combines the best of vintage optical compression with modern engineering, making it a versatile and high-quality tool for recording and mixing. It’s renowned for its ability to add a touch of warmth and musicality to audio while maintaining transparency. The simple yet effective controls make it accessible for both novice and experienced users, and it’s well-suited for a wide range of audio applications in the studio or live environment.

You’ll Never Believe This.

I have to admit, the tale I’m about to recount may be tinged with a touch of the fantastical, but it’s a story I can’t help but share.

It was a stormy, moonless night, and the studio was enveloped in an eerie silence. I had just finished an intense recording session, capturing the soulful melodies of a talented singer. As I wrapped up, I couldn’t help but admire the beauty and the vintage aura of the Warm Audio WA-2A compressor, which had faithfully been my companion throughout the session.

The WA-2A sat in its usual place in the rack, its warm tube glow casting a soft, orange halo around it. As I turned to shut down the studio lights, I had a strange feeling. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a subtle movement, something that should have been impossible. The WA-2A appeared to shudder, as if it were coming to life.

I watched in disbelief as the unit, against all reason, slowly began to crawl out of the rack. It was a surreal sight, like something out of a science fiction movie. The WA-2A, with its vintage charm and knobs gleaming, was inching its way towards the studio door.

I couldn’t resist the urge to follow, to see where the WA-2A was headed. As I approached, the unit turned its VU meter towards me, almost as if it were acknowledging my presence. The VU meter, with its hypnotic needle movement, seemed to pulse in time with the music from the previous session.

The WA-2A made its way into the hallway, and I cautiously followed, trying not to startle the inexplicable phenomenon. It moved with a slow, rhythmic grace, as if it were dancing to a silent melody only it could hear.

The unit eventually reached the control room, and to my amazement, it came to a halt in front of a vintage ribbon microphone that was resting on a stand. It positioned itself beside the microphone, its tubes glowing with an even warmer hue. It was as if the WA-2A had a purpose, a longing to be part of the music-making process.

I couldn’t help but be moved by the scene. In that quiet, surreal moment, it was as if the WA-2A was telling me something profound about the timeless beauty of music and the indomitable spirit of vintage gear. It didn’t speak in words, but its actions conveyed a message that transcended language.

As the night wore on, I watched the WA-2A continue its silent vigil beside the microphone, almost as if it were keeping a timeless, sonic secret. And as dawn broke, the studio came alive with the promise of a new day, and the WA-2A slowly, almost imperceptibly, inched its way back to its rightful place in the rack, its mission complete.

The experience left me with a sense of wonder, a reminder that music and the tools we use to create it are more than just objects; they’re vessels of creativity and passion. And in the presence of the inexplicable, I couldn’t help but smile, grateful for the music and the magic that seemed to linger in the air of the studio.

Where To Buy The Warm Audio WA-2A.

You can purchase the Warm Audio WA-2A compressor from a variety of sources, including authorized dealers, pro audio equipment retailers, and online marketplaces. Here are some common places where you can find the WA-2A for purchase:

1. Authorized Warm Audio Dealers: Warm Audio has a network of authorized dealers and distributors worldwide. You can visit the official Warm Audio website to find a list of authorized dealers in your region. Purchasing from authorized dealers ensures you receive genuine products and support.
2. Pro Audio Equipment Retailers: Many pro audio equipment retailers, both physical stores and online, carry the WA-2A and provide detailed product information and customer reviews.
3. Online Music and Audio Equipment Retailers: Websites like Sweetwater, Vintage King, Thomann, Guitar Center, and others often stock the WA-2A and provide online purchasing options.
4. eBay and Reverb: Online marketplaces like eBay and Reverb may have both new and used WA-2A units available from various sellers. Be sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews for a trustworthy transaction.
5. Warm Audio’s Official Website: You can explore the Warm Audio website for information on their products and to inquire about direct ordering options.

Before making a purchase, it’s advisable to compare prices and check for any available deals or promotions from different retailers. Additionally, consider the warranty and return policy offered by the seller to ensure a smooth buying experience. Keep in mind that availability and pricing may vary, so it’s a good idea to confirm the product details with the seller before making a purchase.