Introducing the Universal Audio LA-2A, a legendary Leveling Amplifier that has been the secret weapon of producers and engineers for over half a century. This reissue is meticulously handcrafted to match the original's design and performance, adding a signature warmth and smoothness to any signal without adding distortion. Its intuitive Gain and Peak Reduction knobs provide effortless control, making tuning the perfect amount of compression a breeze.

The groundbreaking electro-optical attenuator circuit of the LA-2A is its star feature. It is designed with an innovative photocell-based optical compression circuit, which allows transparent, lag-free compression and enhances the subtle details of vocals, guitars, bass, and drums. It can provide up to 40dB of gain limiting without imparting distortion, enabling you to compress signals heavily while maintaining a natural tone.

The LA-2A strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and versatility with just two knobs. The Gain knob adjusts the input level and the amount of compression, while the Peak Reduction knob controls how much the LA-2A will compress transients. You can switch between Compress and Limit modes to go from moderate, natural-sounding compression to heavy limiting. This user-friendly interface allows you to dial in your ideal sound with ease.

Key Features:

• Groundbreaking electro-optical attenuator circuit for pristine gain reduction
• Up to 40dB of gain limiting without distortion
• Simple, intuitive interface with Gain and Peak Reduction knobs
• Switch between Compress and Limit modes for versatile sound control
• Meticulously handcrafted to match the original's design and performance
• Enhances subtle details in vocals, guitars, bass, and drums
• Delivers warmth, smoothness, and character without adding distortion
• Balanced XLR input and output
• Frequency response 30Hz-15kHz (+0/-1dB)
• Output level: 10dBm; Gain: 40dB
• Low noise: 70dB below +10dBm output level
• Handcrafted in Universal Audio's Scotts Valley, California labs

Product specs

FAQs

What type of compressor is the Universal Audio LA-2A?

The Universal Audio LA-2A is a tube-based optical compressor, known for its smooth, natural compression characteristics and warm sound.

What are the key controls on the Universal Audio LA-2A?

The LA-2A features two main controls: Gain and Peak Reduction, allowing users to adjust the input level and the amount of compression applied.

Is the Universal Audio LA-2A suitable for vocals?

Yes, the LA-2A is highly regarded for its ability to add warmth and smoothness to vocal tracks, making it a popular choice for recording and mixing vocals.

What kind of inputs and outputs does the Universal Audio LA-2A have?

The LA-2A is equipped with one XLR input and one XLR output, providing professional-grade connectivity for studio environments.

Can the Universal Audio LA-2A be used for mastering?

While primarily used for tracking and mixing, the LA-2A can also be employed in mastering to add subtle compression and warmth to a mix, particularly for vocals and bass.