Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Reverb
5.0 (4)
$974.25 New
$824.83 Used
Thomann
5.0 (18)
$855.00 $849.00 $6.00 · All time low
Vintage King
4.9 (8)
$1,054.50

Average Price: $926

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "IGS Audio One LA 500". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your studio recordings with the IGS Audio One LA 500, a masterpiece of engineering that brings the legendary warmth of optical compression into the modern era. It's not just a piece of gear; it's a gateway to capturing the soulful dynamics of your music with unparalleled clarity. The One LA 500 marries the vintage charm of the iconic Teletronix LA-2A with cutting-edge technology, ensuring your vocals, acoustic guitars, and bass lines are not just heard, but felt. This device stands out with its true high-voltage tube circuitry, offering a sound that's not only smooth but deeply immersive. Dive into the world of professional audio with a tool designed to inspire and enhance.

Key Features:

  • Optical compressor tailored for dynamic control of vocals, acoustic guitars, and bass
  • True high-voltage tube circuitry for unmatched audio fidelity
  • Utilizes three transformers, along with 12AX7 and 12AU7 tubes at 250V, for a pristine signal path
  • Compatible with the classic T4 optical cell for those seeking a vintage sound palette

Product specs

Available since August 2014
Pre-Amp No
48 V Phantom power No
compressor Yes
limiter Yes
equalizer No
De-Esser No
other processors No
Rack/Frame No
supplies No

FAQs

What type of compressor is the IGS Audio One LA 500?

The IGS Audio One LA 500 is an opto-compressor designed for the 500 series format, known for its smooth and musical compression characteristics, ideal for vocals and instruments.

Does the IGS Audio One LA 500 support 48V phantom power?

No, the IGS Audio One LA 500 does not support 48V phantom power as it is a compressor module and does not include a preamp.

Is the IGS Audio One LA 500 suitable for mastering applications?

While primarily designed for tracking and mixing, the IGS Audio One LA 500's smooth opto-compression can be beneficial in mastering chains for adding warmth and character to tracks.

Can the IGS Audio One LA 500 be used in any 500 series rack?

Yes, the IGS Audio One LA 500 can be used in any standard 500 series rack with a compatible power supply, thanks to its on-board voltage converter.

ZenProAudio

ZenProAudio

IGS Audio One LA 500 Compressor @ ZenProAudio.com

Video thumbnail for IGS Audio One LA 500 Compressor @ ZenProAudio.com by ZenProAudio

IGS Audio One LA 500 Compressor @ ZenProAudio.com

ZenProAudio

ZenProAudio

Video thumbnail for IGS Audio ONE LA 500. by IGS Audio

IGS Audio ONE LA 500.

IGS Audio

IGS Audio

Video thumbnail for I demoed the IGS audio opto compressor - IGS One LA 500 by Max Bauhof

I demoed the IGS audio opto compressor - IGS One LA 500

Max Bauhof

Max Bauhof

Video thumbnail for IGS Audio ONE LA 500 Toneflake Custom Sound Samples by A&M GROUP OFFICIAL - TV

IGS Audio ONE LA 500 Toneflake Custom Sound Samples

A&M GROUP OFFICIAL - TV

A&M GROUP OFFICIAL - TV

Video thumbnail for IGS Audio ONE LA 500 DEMO by A&M Group Inc, by A&M GROUP OFFICIAL - TV

IGS Audio ONE LA 500 DEMO by A&M Group Inc,

A&M GROUP OFFICIAL - TV

A&M GROUP OFFICIAL - TV

Video thumbnail for IGS One LA 500 Series Demo on a Lead Vocal by ajlsoundwave

IGS One LA 500 Series Demo on a Lead Vocal

ajlsoundwave

ajlsoundwave

Reviews

PROS

  • Matches LA-2A type compression with true opto-cell release curve and tube richness

  • Achieves vintage sound with high-quality components including Edcor and Sowter transformers

  • Fine-calibratable meter and simple controls mirror real LA-2A functionality

  • Excellent for vocals with natural saturation and effective dynamic processing

  • Performs well on bass guitar with low noise level and no overheating issues

  • Robust build quality ensures durability

  • Provides stellar sound in a compact format

CONS

  • Lacks modern features like a sidechain lowcut or variable filter

  • Noticeable floor noise when gain is increased, especially with certain preamps

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about IGS Audio One LA 500.

Comparisons

  • The IGS Tubecore is noted for a low-mid boost, which could be problematic for some users compared to the One LA's sound profile.

    Source
  • The IGS stereo Pultec 500 unit is noted for its "overpowered" low end, which some users find excessive compared to other gear.

    Source
  • Concerns about noise and distortion with the IGS 576/blue stripe are highlighted, potentially affecting its use as a snare compressor.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The IGS Tubecore is primarily marketed as a mix bus/mastering compressor, which may not be optimal for tracking compared to the One LA.

    Source
  • The IGS 576 is highly favored for tracking, with one owner expressing reluctance to ever sell it.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Vari-mu compressors, like the IGS Tubecore, use tubes for compression, providing more "warm/wooly" tones, while the One LA offers a "glassy" effect.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the IGS One LA 500 describe it as "amazing," indicating high satisfaction with its performance over several years.

    Source
  • An IGS 1176 Rev A owner experienced extreme noise issues, highlighting potential quality control concerns with specific units.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Lonas uses IGS Audio One LA 500

Lonas

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "EPIC HOME STUDIO Setup 2024 | Louis Johnson (studio tour)" by Andrew Masters on YouTube, the IGS Audio One LA 500 opto-compressor is visible at 23:26 in Louis Johnson's outboard gear rack, which is integrated under his work desk.

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 IGS Audio One LA 500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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Korg Minilogue Synthesizers
1

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