Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $1,752
High-end/Boutique
$49
$150+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Heritage Audio Tubessor Optical Tube Compressor". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Unlock the warmth and musicality of classic tube compressors with the Heritage Audio Tubessor Optical Tube Compressor. This expertly crafted device is more than just a tool; it’s an instrument in its own right, offering both the subtle control and vibrant enhancement that seasoned engineers crave. With the innovative Tube Saturation section, you can infuse your tracks with anything from a gentle edge to an intense sonic punch, thanks to its creamy-sounding NOS Raytheon double triode tube.
The Tubessor's all-tube amplification stage, paired with fully transformer-balanced inputs and outputs, ensures your sound is as rich as it is authentic. Its sidechain filter section, featuring five internal options, gives you the flexibility to sculpt your sound without compromise. Whether you're adding finesse to vocals or depth to instruments, the Tubessor is designed to maintain clarity and depth, even with heavy gain reduction.
With continuously adjustable attack and release controls, plus a fixed mode, you can achieve precise dynamic control for any scenario. The large, informative VU meter keeps you in the loop, displaying input, output, or gain reduction levels with just a glance. This compressor isn't just about technical superiority; it's about capturing the essence of your music with every use.
Key Features:
- Optical compression detection
- All tube-based amplification stage
- Fully transformer-balanced input and output
- Tube Saturation section with four modes
- 5 sidechain filter settings for enhanced processing
- Continuously adjustable attack and release controls
- Large, user-friendly control set with VU meter
- Premium NOS tubes for high-quality sound
- Mil-spec build quality and vintage-inspired design
Product specs
| Type | Optical Tube Compressor |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Controls | Gain, Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Tube Saturation, SC Filter |
| Threshold | -40dB to 0dB |
| Ratio | 2:1 to 10:1 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz (±0.15dB) |
| Inputs | 1 x XLR |
| Outputs | 1 x XLR |
| Other I/O | 1 x 1/4" (stereo link) |
| Tubes | 1 x CK5755, 1 x 12BH7A |
| Rack Spaces | 3U |
| Power Source | Standard IEC AC cable |
| Height | 5.27" |
| Depth | 6.02" |
| Width | 19" |
| Weight | 8.03 lbs. |
FAQs
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What type of compression does the Heritage Audio Tubesessor use?
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The Heritage Audio Tubesessor uses optical compression, which provides smooth, natural-sounding dynamic control, ideal for vocals and instruments.
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How does the tube saturation feature enhance the audio signal?
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The tube saturation feature adds warmth and harmonic richness to the audio signal, creating a more vintage and musical sound character.
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What connectivity options are available on the Heritage Audio Tubesessor?
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The Tubesessor features 1 XLR input and 1 XLR output, with an additional 1/4" stereo link for connecting multiple units.
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Can the Heritage Audio Tubesessor be used for stereo processing?
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Yes, the Tubesessor can be linked with another unit via the 1/4" stereo link connection for stereo processing.
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What are the sidechain filtering options on the Tubesessor?
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The Tubesessor offers five built-in sidechain filtering options, allowing for precise control over the compression response to different frequency ranges.
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sound with superior top-end and smooth performance
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More features compared to high-end competitors like the CL1B
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Cost-effective, outperforming its price point
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Versatile sound shaping with adjustable tube saturation
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Solid build quality, surprisingly lightweight yet robust
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Attractive design that appeals to studio clients
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Effective side chain filter for precise sound sculpting
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Enhances studio capabilities, expanding creative possibilities
CONS
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Can become overly sibilant with brighter microphones
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Heritage Audio Tubessor Optical Tube Compressor.
Comparisons
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The Heritage Audio Tubesessor is described as having the "TT glow" with more sound options compared to the TubeTech CL1-B.
Source
Use cases and applications
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Popular signal chain emulation: U87 -> 1073 -> CL1B. Aims to replicate familiar recording sounds.
Source
User experience
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A user reported satisfaction with the Tubesessor, noting it didn't sound identical to a real CL1-B but was similar and offered a great feature set.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In Edward Smith's YouTube video titled "My DREAM Home Music Studio Setup (Studio Tour)," the Heritage Audio Tubessor Optical Tube Compressor is clearly visible at 1:43, integrated into a rack on the left side of his work desk. Smith further demonstrates its use at 2:21, providing clear evidence of his utilization of this specific gear.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Heritage Audio Tubessor Optical Tube Compressor, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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