Photo-Optical Tube Compressor

"Never send a transistor to do a triode's job." - Universal Audio

Photo-optical tube compressor

Quiet, musical and transparent - The PC-2A is the world's smallest and toughest hi-fidelity photo-optical tube compressor pedal. It's pure analog circuitry is made from the 'right stuff' being built with a high quality photo-cell and NOS (new old stock) tube, just like the best high-end vintage gear found in many professional studios. Operating at real tube amplifier plate voltages the PC-2A has stacks of head-room and a low noise floor ensuring fantastic dynamic range and outstanding tone. A few of these beautiful little compressors will available very shortly, so reserve one now to avoid disappontment.

Features

  • All Tube: 100% pure analog vacuum tube audio path for maximum signal integrity and hi-fidelity sound reproduction.
  • A-weighting filter response: A-weighted filter in the side-chain replicates the response of the human ear and allows for heavy compression without the excessive 'pumping' normnally associated with compressors processing low-frequnecy material, for much more natural and musical effect.
  • Photo-optical gain control: The gain control attenuator is based on a CdS photocell which ensures the absolute minimum of distortion is introduced (much lower than V.C.A. and F.E.T. designs). Additionally, the natural decay characteristic of the photocell produces a smooth two-stage release characteristic which always sounds pleasing and natural to the ear as it eliminates 'breathing'.
  • Deep Carmine Red L.E.D.: Indicates if the effect is engaged.

THE ATTENUATOR

cadmium sulfide photocell

The photo-resistive attenuator is the heart of the compressor and determines the attack and release characteristics. The photo-resistive device is specially selected for fast attack of less than 1ms.

SOUNDS

X-Ray Spex