Warm Audio - Single-Channel Tube Optical Compressor w/ Lundahl Transformers & Fixed/Manual Timing Controls, Handwired

Experience the silky-smooth tone and forgiving dynamics of one of the world’s most beloved compressors with the Warm Audio WA-1B Optical Compressor. Modeled after the legendary Lydkraft tube-opto design that has shaped countless iconic hip-hop and R&B vocals, the WA-1B combines vintage analog character with modern precision.Its fully discrete analog signal path and custom Lundahl transformers reproduce the warmth, punch, and musical response that made the original a studio favorite. The WA-1B’s switchable Fixed and Manual Attack/Release modes let you fine-tune your response for subtle vocal leveling, smooth acoustic compression, or hard-hitting drum control — all while maintaining pristine clarity.Inside, you’ll find premium components including JJ and Tung-Sol tubes, high-voltage 270V circuitry, and a high-precision optical element that reacts naturally to the incoming signal. Every unit is handwired and tested by Warm Audio’s engineers in Austin, TX, ensuring consistency and true-to-spec performance.Whether you’re recording vocals, bass, or full-band mixes, the Warm Audio WA-1B adds that unmistakable tube-opto magic — lush, analog compression that enhances your sound with warmth, depth, and professional-grade polish.

• Smooth Tube-Optical Compression Circuit: The WA-1B delivers the lush, musical compression of a world-renowned Lydkraft-style tube optical compressor, offering warm, natural-sounding dynamics control. Its smooth and forgiving behavior enhances vocals, instruments, and mixes with analog richness and transparent performance ideal for any studio setup.
• Familiar And Flexible Control Layout: Featuring identical controls to the classic Danish-built hardware, the WA-1B provides precise shaping with Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release knobs. Switchable Fixed and Manual modes allow versatile timing adjustment, while the dueling time-constant setting ensures smooth, musical release curves across any application.
• Premium Components For Authentic Tone: Built with a 270V discrete analog signal path, through-hole components, and custom-core Lundahl transformers, the WA-1B captures the vintage sound and sonic integrity of the original unit. JJ and Tung-Sol tubes, combined with a precision optical element, deliver superior tone, clarity, and harmonic warmth.
• Analog Metering And True Bypass Control: The integrated analog VU meter provides visual feedback in Input, Compression, and Output modes, allowing precise monitoring of your signal. A dedicated Bypass switch lets you remove the compression circuit from the signal path completely, preserving transparency and flexibility during mixing and mastering.
• Handcrafted Quality From Warm Audio: Each WA-1B unit is meticulously handwired, assembled, and tested in Austin, Texas, to ensure consistent performance and long-lasting reliability. The result is a world-class compressor that reproduces the soulful tube-opto warmth of the original with uncompromising build quality and modern dependability.