Pricing and availability

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Sweetwater
$349.00 $279.00 $70.00 · All time low
Amazon
5.0 (2)
$279.00
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$279.00 New
$282.23 Used
Thomann
4.6 (15)
$339.00 $338.00 $1.00 · All time low
Vintage King
$349.00 $179.00 $170.00 · All time low

Average Price: $273

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$100

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr. Optical Compressor". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the realm of classic audio excellence with the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr. Optical Compressor. This vintage-inspired compressor channels the spirit of the iconic LA-3A, revered for its simplicity and program-dependent dynamics control. More than just a nod to the past, the Comp-3A Jr. combines affordability with high-quality sound, making it an essential piece for any studio setup, from home enthusiasts to seasoned professionals.

Housed in a robust quarter-rackspace chassis, the Comp-3A Jr. stays true to its roots with a 100% discrete audio path and transformer-balanced inputs and outputs. The heart of this unit is its integrated optocoupler, which delivers the warm, musical compression that has captivated audio engineers for decades. With intuitive controls for gain reduction and makeup gain, plus a hard-wired bypass for instant wet/dry comparison, this compressor is as user-friendly as it is powerful.

Whether you're looking to add vintage warmth to your electric bass, guitar, or any other instrument, the Comp-3A Jr. offers flexibility with its three-position time switch for customizable attack and release settings. Its external power supply ensures that the audio circuits and transformers remain interference-free, providing pristine audio quality. For those looking to expand, the link jack allows two units to operate in stereo, making it a versatile addition to any audio arsenal.

Key Features:

  • Single-channel compressor with vintage-style electronics
  • 100% discrete main audio circuit path with no integrated circuits
  • Transformer-balanced input and output
  • Integrated optocoupler for gain control
  • Easy operation with Gain Makeup and Gain Reduction controls
  • Three-position Time switch for attack and release customization
  • Hard-wired bypass switch for wet/dry comparison
  • XLR and TRS input and output jacks
  • Link jack for stereo operation with another unit
  • External power supply for interference-free operation
  • Compact quarter-rackspace chassis
  • Fits up to 4 units in Golden Age Unite MkII 19" rack kit

Product specs

Type Electro-Optical
Number of Channels Single channel
Controls Make-up Gain, Gain Reduction, 3-way Attack/Release Time Switch
Inputs 1 x XLR-1/4" combo
Outputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4"
Sidechain I/O Internal Sidechain Highpass/Flat Switch
Other I/O 1 x 1/4" (stereo link)
Rack Spaces 1U Quarter-rack
Power Source 24V AC power supply
Height 1.8"
Depth 10"
Width 4.25"

FAQs

What type of compressor is the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr?

The Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is an electro-optical compressor, known for its smooth, musical compression characteristics, ideal for vocals and instruments.

How many channels does the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr have?

The Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a single-channel compressor, making it suitable for individual tracks in a recording setup.

What are the main controls available on the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr?

The Comp-3A Jr features controls for Make-up Gain, Gain Reduction, and a 3-way Attack/Release Time Switch, allowing for versatile dynamic shaping.

Can the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr be used in a stereo setup?

Yes, the Comp-3A Jr includes a 1/4" stereo link output, enabling it to be used in stereo applications when paired with a second unit.

What are the input and output options on the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr?

The compressor offers 1 x XLR-1/4" combo input and outputs via 1 x XLR and 1 x 1/4", providing flexible connectivity for various studio setups.

Does the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr have a sidechain feature?

Yes, it includes an internal sidechain with a highpass/flat switch, allowing for tailored compression response to specific frequencies.

Golden Age Audio

Golden Age Audio

COMP 3A jr VIDEO

Video thumbnail for COMP 3A jr VIDEO by Golden Age Audio

COMP 3A jr VIDEO

Golden Age Audio

Golden Age Audio

Video thumbnail for Golden Age Project Comp 3A Jr On male vocals - ITD Review by In the DAW

Golden Age Project Comp 3A Jr On male vocals - ITD Review

In the DAW

In the DAW

Video thumbnail for Mixing kick and snare with Golden Age Project Comp 3A Jr - ITD Overview and review by In the DAW

Mixing kick and snare with Golden Age Project Comp 3A Jr - ITD Overview and review

In the DAW

In the DAW

Video thumbnail for NGERIIIII Compressor Hardware GAP Comp-2A & Comp-3A Jr. ini Bisa UNBOXING Sendiri 🙀 🙀 🙀 by ArtSonica

NGERIIIII Compressor Hardware GAP Comp-2A & Comp-3A Jr. ini Bisa UNBOXING Sendiri 🙀 🙀 🙀

ArtSonica

ArtSonica

Reviews

PROS

  • Fast, aggressive compression perfect for dynamic vocals

  • Offers a smooth, vintage character with modern versatility

  • Highly responsive timing knob with multiple attack/release settings

  • Transparent gain reduction with distinctive tonal color

  • Excellent value for money compared to pricier alternatives

  • Flexible with a built-in side chain filter and hardware bypass

  • Compact form factor for easy integration into home studios

  • Easy to achieve desired sound with minimal adjustments

  • Performs exceptionally for vocals and acoustic guitars

CONS

  • Can distort at fastest settings with high gain reduction

  • Fixed high-pass filter may not suit all sources

  • Compact design may feel cramped for adjustments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr. Optical Compressor.

Features and functionality

  • Users highlight that EQ before compression affects the detector differently, potentially offering more control over sibilance and resonance.

    Source
  • The optical sensors in the compressor don’t have a frequency curve, meaning they will respond to any low-frequency rumble, potentially compressing when not desired.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Some users employ a high-pass filter before the compressor to prevent low-end energy from affecting compression efficiency.

    Source
  • The compressor is praised for its ability to make vocals almost mix-ready, particularly in rock music, when used with an EQ and an 1176 in the signal chain.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note that subtractive EQ before the Comp-3A Jr. may require deeper cuts, as the compressor can even out frequencies again post-compression.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr

soundonsound.com

The Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a compact powerhouse, capturing the essence of the revered LA-3A compressor while trimming down on size and cost. With its warm, forgiving sound and thoughtful design, it retains much of the magic of its larger sibling. While some features like the high-pass filter and control options are simplified, it still delivers a robust performance with selectable attack/release times and refreshed control labeling. Compared to the full-sized Comp-3A, it may lack some stereo finesse, but for the price, it’s a stellar choice for those seeking vintage-style compression without breaking the bank.

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