Warm Audio WA-1B

Combining smooth tube-optical warmth with precision controls, the Warm Audio WA-1B is an accurate recreation of a legendary, top-tier Scandinavian compressor used by producers and engineers from Chris Lord-Alge to Rick Rubin. Like the original studio staple, the WA-1B features a winning compression formula that offers both the forgiving musical compression of tube-optical circuitry and the speed and control more closely associated with modern dynamics processing. The flexible combination works well on a variety of sources; allowing you get natural sounding vocal compression, control bass signals so they sit just right in the mix, and generally add professional-sounding compression that tames dynamics without destroying the musicality of the performance.

Handwired to authentically recreate the original true-to-spec circuit, the WA-1B combines custom large-core transformers from Lundahl Sweden, select tubes from JJ and Tung-Sol, and a premium high-precision optical element for ultrafast and accurate operation without sacrificing authentic analog warmth. The WA-1B delivers extended dynamic processing courtesy of its classic extended controls including infinite 2:1 to 10:1 ratios, variable threshold, as well as attack and release settings that can work in fixed, manual, or combined modes for added flexibility. Multiple metering options, dual side-chain bus connections, and a true bypass switch complete the professional feature set.