Warm Audio - Single-Channel Tube Optical Compressor w/ Lundahl Transformers & Fixed/Manual Timing Controls, Handwired
Model: WA-1B
SKU: 11009944
Reviews coming soon
Reviews coming soon
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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