Warm Audio WA-2A Optical Compressor

Though digital technology and software have made great strides in recent years; Warm Audio still believe that nothing compares to the level of articulation, depth, realism, and responsiveness of a well-built piece of analog gear. When you hear the bottom-end presence and top-end ...Though digital technology and software have made great strides in recent years; Warm Audio still believe that nothing compares to the level of articulation, depth, realism, and responsiveness of a well-built piece of analog gear. When you hear the bottom-end presence and top-end detail of quality analog gear, the difference is astounding.

The cost of most boutique analog equipment is financially out of reach for many recording artists. Warm Audio's mission is to change this, and introduce as many people as possible to recording and mixing with real, dedicated hardware. No plug-in or other compressor type quite compares to the warm, forgiving, fluid qualities of the classic '2A optical compressor.

For decades, the renowned ‘2A style circuit has become the go-to device for seamlessly handling vocals, bass and a wide variety of other instruments and program material in an effortlessly smooth way. The WA-2A is a high-voltage, Class-A opto-compressor, utilizing large-core CineMag USA Transformers, four premium vacuum tubes, and the legendary Kenetek opto-cell - considered by many to be the world’s finest. The WA-2A operates on four tubes: two 12AX7’s, one 12BH7, and one 6aq5 (or 6P1J).

Warm Audio proudly use premium brand tubes in the signal path, which sound very 'open' and LARGE. All 4 tubes are socketed for easy swapping and replacement.