Vintage-Style Optical Compressor with Discrete Circuitry, Transformer-Balanced I/O, Selectable Time Constants, Fast Attack, and External Power Supply for Versatile Compression
Features
What is the Golden Age Audio Comp-3A Jr Vintage-style Optical Compressor?
The Golden Age Audio Comp-3A Jr is a single-channel solid-state electro-optical compressor designed to replicate the beloved characteristics of the classic LA-3A. This vintage-style compressor is built with all-discrete electronics and features a transformer-balanced I/O, delivering warm, musical compression suitable for a wide range of sources like electric bass, guitars, and vocals. The simple yet effective design focuses on program-dependent dynamics control, which has made the LA-3A an enduring favorite in studios worldwide. Whether you are a musician, engineer, or producer, the Comp-3A Jr provides that timeless sound at a fraction of the cost of vintage units.
Vintage Sound with Modern Performance
The Golden Age Comp-3A Jr is based on a design that employs an integrated optocoupler to control gain, delivering forgiving, highly musical compression characteristics. The lack of integrated circuits in the signal path ensures that the sound remains pure and warm, as was typical of audio components before the advent of modern ICs. The I/O is transformer-balanced, with two separate transformers optimized for their respective tasks, ensuring clean, punchy audio that captures the essence of vintage analog compressors. This design provides the warmth and depth that only analog equipment can offer, making the Comp-3A Jr a go-to tool for achieving professional-grade sound with a vintage flair.
Efficient and Simple Control for Quick Results
One of the reasons the original LA-3A became a favorite among engineers was its ease of use. The Golden Age Comp-3A Jr stays true to this concept by offering two main controls: Gain Makeup and Gain Reduction. This simplicity allows for quick adjustments, ensuring that the compressor is ready to go without excessive tweaking. The 3-position Time switch allows you to select different combinations of attack and release times, giving you a range of compression options suitable for various audio sources. Internal jumpers can also increase the speed of the attack and release settings, providing further versatility for those who need even faster dynamic control.
Flexible Connectivity and Versatile Use
The Comp-3A Jr is designed to fit seamlessly into your studio setup. Equipped with both XLR and TRS input and output jacks, it offers flexible connectivity for both balanced and unbalanced loads. The maximum output level of 25dBu ensures that it can drive most audio equipment without distortion, allowing you to integrate it easily into any DAW-based workflow or analog rig. Additionally, the Link jack allows you to connect two units for stereo operation, making it perfect for processing stereo tracks such as drum overheads or paired instruments. The hard-wired bypass switch gives you the ability to quickly compare the compressed and uncompressed signal, making it easier to dial in the perfect settings.
Compact, Durable, and Ready for Any Studio
The Golden Age Comp-3A Jr is housed in a compact quarter-rackspace chassis that ensures it fits neatly into your setup, while still offering solid, rugged construction for long-lasting performance. The use of an external power supply eliminates any interaction with the audio circuits and transformers, preserving the integrity of your sound. The unit’s build quality is designed to withstand years of use, making it a reliable choice for both professionals and home studio enthusiasts. If you need more units, the Golden Age Unite MkII 19" rack kit allows you to mount up to four units, providing even greater flexibility for larger setups.
MPN | COMP-3A JUNIOR |
---|---|
Color | Black |
UPC / EAN | 7115835091628 |
Brand | Golden Age Audio |
Product Condition | New |
Availability | Out of Stock |