Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (3)
$1,999.00
Guitar Center
$2,499.00
Amazon
5.0 (2)
$1,799.10 Used
Reverb
$1,999.00 New
$1,399.00 Used
zZounds
$1,999.00
B&H
$1,999.00
Thomann
5.0 (2)
$1,744.00 $1,725.00 $19.00 · All time low
Vintage King
$1,999.00

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

What type of compression does the Heritage Audio Tubesessor use?

The Heritage Audio Tubesessor uses optical compression, which provides smooth, natural-sounding dynamic control, ideal for vocals and instruments.

How does the tube saturation feature enhance the audio signal?

The tube saturation feature adds warmth and harmonic richness to the audio signal, creating a more vintage and musical sound character.

What connectivity options are available on the Heritage Audio Tubesessor?

The Tubesessor features 1 XLR input and 1 XLR output, with an additional 1/4" stereo link for connecting multiple units.

Can the Heritage Audio Tubesessor be used for stereo processing?

Yes, the Tubesessor can be linked with another unit via the 1/4" stereo link connection for stereo processing.

What are the sidechain filtering options on the Tubesessor?

The Tubesessor offers five built-in sidechain filtering options, allowing for precise control over the compression response to different frequency ranges.

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound with superior top-end and smooth performance

  • More features compared to high-end competitors like the CL1B

  • Cost-effective, outperforming its price point

  • Versatile sound shaping with adjustable tube saturation

  • Solid build quality, surprisingly lightweight yet robust

  • Attractive design that appeals to studio clients

  • Effective side chain filter for precise sound sculpting

  • Enhances studio capabilities, expanding creative possibilities

CONS

  • 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

  • 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

  • Popular signal chain emulation: U87 -> 1073 -> CL1B. Aims to replicate familiar recording sounds.

    Source

User experience

  • 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

Value and pricing

  • Cost savings with the Tubesessor are appreciated by users not wanting to wait for a backordered TubeTech CL1-B.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Heritage Audio Tubesessor

soundonsound.com

Heritage Audio's Tubesessor is a standout optical tube compressor with a nod to the classic Tube-Tech CL-1B. It's a versatile and stylish unit, offering excellent performance on vocals and bass, and surprisingly effective on drums. The Tubesessor shines with its variable controls, tube saturation, and side-chain filters, providing both clean and colorful tonal options. While it requires careful handling for clean vocal compression during tracking, its ability to adapt to various studio roles is impressive. At half the price of its inspiration, this compressor is a compelling choice for those seeking both character and functionality in their studio toolkit.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Edward Smith uses Heritage Audio Tubessor Optical Tube Compressor

Edward Smith

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

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

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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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