Sound Skulptor have announced the upcoming launch of a new 500-series module that aims to recreate one of the most praised compressor designs of all time: the LA2A.
Building on the success of the company’s acclaimed LA502, the new LA502T promises to deliver the same iconic LA2A-style levelling, but with the addition of a full high-voltage valve makeup gain stage and some enhanced control options. The LA502T combines the program-dependent dynamic control of an optical cell with the harmonic warmth and depth of valve and transformer-based circuitry.
The module is said to be suited to a wide variety of tasks — from levelling out vocals during tracking or smoothing out basslines to adding some ‘glue’ to a full mix — and will deliver smooth-sounding compression even when being pushed hard.
Key Features
- Vintage Design: Based on the classic LA2A architecture.
- Valve Warmth: High-voltage powered valve make-up gain circuit.
- Iron Soul: High-quality transformers on both input and output.
- Added Versatility: Three ratios (3:1, 20:1 and a new 6:1 intermediate setting).
- Side-chain Control: Switchable High-pass filter (flat, 100Hz, 200Hz) to keep your low end big and punchy.
- Attack Tuning: Three selectable attack times (5ms, 10ms, 20ms) for better control over transients.
- Stereo Ready: Linkable for stereo operation.
- Transparent Routing: Hardware relay bypass.
Kit Version
As with all of Sound Skulptor’s products, the new arrival is available as an assembled module, but can also be purchased in kit form (at a reduced cost) for those who are confident with a soldering iron. Opting for the latter will get you the following:
- Passive components (resistors, capacitors, inductors),
- Transformers,
- Active components (valve, diodes, transistors, LED's, Opto-coupler, IC's),
- Control elements (switches, potentiometers, knobs),
- Connectors, relay,
- PCB’s,
- Front and side panels,
- All hardware.
A full set of instructions is provided, and all you’ll need is a soldering iron, some solder, a decent voltmeter and a 500-series chassis to host your new module! Sound Skulptor say that the kit is of medium difficulty, and can be undertaken by anybody who is capable of making a clean solder joint.
Pricing & Availability
The LA502T will be available soon, with pricing as follows:
- Kit: £299
- Assembled: £549
Prices include VAT.
www.soundskulptor.com/en/dynamics/58-110-la502t-tube-optical-compressor-for-500-series.html
