IGS Audio Tubecore 3U – Vari-Mu Mastering Compressor

The finest Mastering Compressor to garnish your Masters!
 
The IGS Audio Tubecore 3U has become an IGS studio hardware classic since its 2017 launch. In a crowded tube compressor market, it has earned standard status in recording, mixing, and mastering studios worldwide.
 
Details

Housed in a sleek black chassis reminiscent of the legendary Fairchild 670, the Tubecore 3U stands as an independent design – no mere clone.
 
Variable Gain-Staging

The thoughtful gain-staging unfolds in 3–4 steps per channel:
Input gain: 1–24 dB
Compression amount: 0 to -12 dB
Output gain: 1–24 dB
Wet/dry blend for precise parallel compression control
 
Side-Chain Function

Built-in sidechain (60–120 Hz) prevents bass from overdriving the compressor, avoiding squashed/pumped effects. Six attack (0.1–30 ms) and release (0.1–4 s) times deliver punchy, warm results – from subtle to aggressive density.
 
Dual-Mono or M/S Mode

Two clever bypass switches allow instant mode switching without knob adjustments.
Clever feature: Dual bypass modes for dual-mono and M/S compression (image caption)
Two classic 1950s-style VU meters on the front panel lend a noble look, complemented by two bypass switches and a ruby-red power LED. The external power supply ensures even, clean, interference-free operation. Uniquely, direct rear access to the tubes prioritizes user sound taste and flexibility.
 
Your turn: Pick your favorite tube! Two rear slots await!
 
User-Customizable Tubes

Fixed Russian 6N1P-WE double-triodes pair with two user-selectable sockets for Fairchild 6386, 6BC8 (Universal Audio 176 style), or 5670 tubes – blending tight transparency to dark-warm coloration.
Premium components: Carnhill input/output transformers, NOS tubes, 1% metal-film resistors, Wima capacitors, relay-based sidechain low-cut.
 
In summary, the Tubecore 3U offers exceptional value: intuitive, high-build quality, versatile for mastering, drums, bass/vocals, parallel buses, and mixbus processing. Upgrade your chain – order now at Falkenstein ProAudio.

Discover the complete IGS Audio portfolio: IGS Audio Studio Equipment – One LA 500, V8 Bus Compressor & more.