Warm Audio WA-2A Tube Opto Compressor / Limiter
 
The Warm Audio WA-2A faithfully follows its legendary predecessor in every essential detail. This discrete, hand-built optical compressor features custom CineMag input and output transformers, four premium Tung-Sol tubes, and the renowned Kenetek opto cell, widely regarded by professionals as the best on the market.
 
For decades, the 2A circuit has been beloved by producers around the world. Known for its unique response characteristics, it remains one of the most musical and beautiful ways to add warmth, smoothness, and depth to vocals, bass, and a wide range of other instruments. No plugin or other compressor type can emulate the natural, silky character of the 2A quite like the real thing.
In developing the WA-2A, Warm Audio placed great emphasis on maintaining the original four-tube design, the dual transformers, and the optical photo cell of the classic circuit. The key difference from the vintage unit is that the WA-2A brings this legendary sound within reach for many more users — without compromise in quality or tone.
 
Features
 
Single-channel tube optical compressor/limiter
100% discrete signal path
CineMag input transformer
CineMag output transformer
4 premium tubes: 2× 12AX7, 1× 12BH7, 1× 6AQ5 (or 6P1 interchangeable) by Tung-Sol and Electro-Harmonix
Kenetek opto cell
Integrated power supply
Stereo link capability
Balanced XLR and TRS inputs – 600 Ohm impedance
Balanced XLR and TRS outputs – 600 Ohm impedance
Frequency response: ±1 dB, 15 Hz – 20 kHz
Gain: 40 dB ±1 dB
Input level: +16 dB max
Output level: +10 dB nominal, +16 dB max
Distortion: < 0.1% THD at ±10 dBm
Attack time: 10 milliseconds
Release time: 0.06 seconds for 50% release; 0.5–5 seconds for full release
Meter for gain reduction and output level
Dimensions: 48.26 × 17.78 × 8.89 cm
Weight: 5.44 kg