Urei LA-22 Compressor Limiter

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$1,118.27

5.0 (2)

2 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

1 wishlisted

3 saved

Page last updated Jun 09, 2026

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5.0 (3)

$1,118.27 5 available Used

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Description

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Discover the vintage charm and robust performance of the Urei LA-22 Compressor, a staple in the world of professional studio recording gear. This classic compressor is celebrated for its innovative dual-band compression technology, allowing you to fine-tune your audio dynamics with remarkable precision. Whether you're a seasoned audio engineer or a budding producer, the LA-22 offers a versatile solution for smooth dynamic control and clarity in your mixes.

Engineered for seamless integration into your studio setup, the Urei LA-22 fits perfectly among your rack accessories, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetic of your studio furniture. Its design reflects a commitment to superior audio fidelity, ensuring your recordings retain their natural warmth and character.

The LA-22 is equipped with intuitive controls that make it easy to navigate complex audio scenarios. Its side-chain filter capabilities enable users to tailor the compression response, making it suitable for a wide range of audio applications—from vocals to intricate instrumental arrangements. With this compressor, you gain the ability to sculpt your sound with confidence and flair.

Key Features:

Dual-band compression for precise audio control
Side-chain filter for tailored compression response
Seamless integration into studio rack setups
Intuitive control layout for ease of use
Ideal for both vocal and instrumental applications

Product specs

Brand	Urei
Model	LA-22 2-Channel Compressor / Limiter / Expander
Finish	Black
Year	1980s
Made In	United States
Categories	Compressors and Limiters

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LESINDES

Korg Volca Beats - SPL Kultube - Behringer MDX8000 - UREI LA22

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Reviews

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PROS

Upwards expansion for advanced audio control
Parametric filter in side-chain for precise sound sculpting
High-level output to +24dBm for long-distance signal delivery
Distortionless transformer output stage for pristine sound quality
Combines RMS and Peak detection for transparent compression
Proven performance in live sound and studio mastering
More features and less rack space than LA-4 units
Effective on electronic kicks and bass, ideal for Moogs
Sidechain filter with adjustable frequency sweeps
Highly revered and still widely used by professionals

CONS

Cannot closely stack more than two units in a rack due to heat issues
Lacks a VU meter, sacrificing visual feedback for functionality
Does not have the "cool" aesthetic of LA-4 units

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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jimmarchi1

40997

about 5 years ago

the JBL name attached to some of these untis keeps them cheap

This is a great stereo Urei unit. I don't know if its actually an opto compressor as its quite late in thegame. If you have a choice between this and a pair of LA-4s this has way more features, costs less, and uses less rack space... similar sound to my ear, defiintiely more in the vanilla camp than than the LA3 but effective. Once you get past the fact that it doesn't look as cool as a pair of LA4s you'll realize its way more useful. The sacrifice of a VU was worth it.

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Keyboardist

Genres:

Electronic Orchestra Alternative rock

lucianofortalobos

278

over 8 years ago

A comp with sidechain filters

Not a lot of hype around this box and it's been the first comp I've ever bought. Wicked on (electronic) kicks and bass and can handle a moog any day of the week. A nice feature is the sidechain filter with dialable frequency sweeps so you can search for that sweet spot you want gone, diluted or tempered.

jimmarchi1

40997

8 years ago over 8 years ago

this unit is criminally underrated, I guess because its not an LA2A, 3 or 4... If you go in expecting that you'll be elft flat, but its way elss of a niche device and the 22 is all voer the damned place in commercial studios and readily available for small money. Super versatile compared to its ancestors, right?