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Warm Audio Wa-1b Tube Optical Compressor

Warm Audio Wa-1b Tube Optical Compressor
  • Product Code: eq146895
  • Availability: In Stock

$3,597.00 $5,215.65

Combining smooth tube-optical warmth with precision controls, the Warm Audio WA-1B is an accurate recreation of a legendary, top-tier Scandinavian compressor used by producers and engineers from Chris Lord-Alge to Rick Rubin. Like the original studio staple, the WA-1B features a winning compression formula that offers both the forgiving musical compression of tube-optical circuitry and the speed and control more closely associated with modern dynamics processing. The flexible combination works well on a variety of sources; allowing you get natural sounding vocal compression, control bass signals so they sit just right in the mix, and generally add professional-sounding compression that tames dynamics without destroying the musicality of the performance.

Handwired to authentically recreate the original true-to-spec circuit, the WA-1B combines custom large-core transformers from Lundahl Sweden, select tubes from JJ and Tung-Sol, and a premium high-precision optical element for ultrafast and accurate operation without sacrificing authentic analog warmth. The WA-1B delivers extended dynamic processing courtesy of its classic extended controls including infinite 2:1 to 10:1 ratios, variable threshold, as well as attack and release settings that can work in fixed, manual, or combined modes for added flexibility. Multiple metering options, dual side-chain bus connections, and a true bypass switch complete the professional feature set.

Recreates Classic Top-Tier Studio Staple    Smooth Tube-Optical Warmth    Precision Controls    Custom Large-Core Transformers    12ax7 Tung-Sol and JJ 12au7 Tubes    270V 100% Discrete Analog Signal Path    Linear, Low-Noise Power Supply    Toroidal Power Transformer

Inputs / Outputs
Audio I/O1x XLR 3-Pin Line Input
1x XLR 3-Pin Line Output
1x 1/4" TRS Line Input
1x 1/4" TRS Line Output
2x 1/4" TRS Line Input (Side Chain)
Frequency ResponseAt -3 dB: 5 Hz to 25 kHz
NoiseSelf-Noise: < -75 dBU at 30 dB Gain
Tubes12ax7 Tung-Sol and JJ 12au7
CMRR> 60 dB at 10 kHz
ImpedanceInput impedance: 600 Ohms
ControlsRatio from 2:1 to 10:1 Variable Threshold: Off to -40 dBu
Continuously Variable Attack and Release Times: Fast-Slow
Output gain: Off to +30 dBu
Wireless
Mobile App CompatibleNo
Power
Power SourceAC Input (Included)
AC Input Power115 to 230 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz
Physical
ColorBlue
Packaging Info
Package Weight12.075 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)23 x 12.6 x 5.7"

The WA-1B supports a variable threshold giving maximum control to the user regarding how much compression is applied to any signal at various input levels.

The WA-1B ratio is variable and has infinite controls between 2:1 and 10:1. From soft musical dynamic control all the way to hard-smashing compression.

The Attack/Release controls on the WA-1B are unique in that the attack/release operations can be switched to a fixed setting, manual (variable) setting, or combined setting. In the fixed mode, the WA-1B delivers the natural attack and release time of the optical element. The combined setting in particular creates the opportunity for a more nuanced release-time curve. This dueling time-constant circuit operation is a special feature of the WA-1B and its original inspiration.

The WA-1B meter switch has three settings: input, compression, and output levels. Set to Input, the VU meter reads the level at the input connector. Set to Compression, the VU meter is reading gain reduction. The steady state is 0, and the amount of compression is shown as the needle moving right-to-left away from 0 dB. Set to Output, the VU meter reads the level at the output connector.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. How are the telescope focal length (1950 mm) and focal ratio (9.75) defined? Focal length is the distance from the focus to what? Focal ratio is the ratio of what to what?

A: Focal length is the distance (given in millimeters) between the telescope's primary lens or mirror and the point where the light rays come together in focus. The focal ratio is the focal length divided by the lens diameter. For the Vixen Optics VMC200L, that would be 1950 divided by 200 = 9.75.

Q: 2. Will this work with Canon's XF705?

A: Yes it will be compatible with the Canon XF 705 camcorder.

Q: 3. What dimensions of filter fit into the trays? I'm not accustomed to the circular filters for matte boxes. Would they work with 72mm circular lens filters?

A: The trays are not for circular filters, you can use 4x4 filters.

Q: 4. Hi I appreciate if someone can tell how many inches can be adjusted the height of the matte box in relation to the rods? Thanks!

A: Hello, thank you for the interest in Shape products. The height can be adjusted about 1 inch. Thank you, Shape team.

Q: 5. Can I use lenses with a diameter of 49mm in this mattebox or would there be any problem in?

A: Yes you can. This does have a universal Knickers for smaller lenses to block out light. You will need to have this matte box mounted on to a 15mm baseplate though.

Q: 6. Will this matte box cause vignetting when used with a 24mm lens? Paired with a full-frame 35mm image sensor.

A: Hello SamuelThank you for your question! You might indeed get a bit of vignetting when using this unit at 24mm. We are coming out with a 4X5.6 mattebox though in the next few weeks.We invite you to stay tuned if that could interest you.We hope this answers your question and we thank you for your interest inour products!Regards,The SHAPE team

Q: 7. What dimensions are the adapter rings?

A: Here's the dimensions of the rings included with the matte box:64mm, 68mm, 72mm, 82mm

Q: 8. Can I use my Meade LX85 German Equatorial mount & tripod with this OTA?

A: Yes, you can.

Q: 9. Will this lens adapter work for a tight room to record a remodeling project with a canon xa15? How wide is this lens adapter?

A: The Canon WA-U58 Wide Attachment Lens should work for a tight room as it will convert the XA15's 28.8mm lens into a 23mm wide angle lens.

Q: 10. I cannot find the two filter trays which were included into the Shape Matte box I bought some time ago. Do you know if it is possible to buy new filter trays separately? Or if it is possible to use other?

A: Please write us provideo@bhphoto.com with the model SHAPE Matte Box and we can find out for you.

17/09/2024

[Blue] The WA76 is not supposed to sound exactly like the modern UA 1176LN as another review has highlighted. The WA76 is an exact replica of the Urei 1176 revision D that was produced in the early 1970s. The current UA 117LN is an amalgamation of revisions C, D, & E. These revisions have minor differences in circuitry dealing with low noise and distortion. The WA76 and UA 1176LN are essentially the same beast, but since they are produced with slightly different circuitry designs, one will hear very subtle sonic variations between the two. Which one you like more is a matter of preference.

5
23/08/2024

[Blue] I've been lusting after a physical LA2A for years. I actually first used one in the early 1970's in a radio station, their original market. I've tried a number of plugins, some of which aren't bad. But the weird mixture of tubes, transformers and a light bulb (panel in this case) is just hard to beat. Like all great audio gear, you may cease to notice it when it's there, but you'll truly miss it when it's not there. I have a number of wildly dynamic singers in the studio, and this just works the magic to make their vocals sit in the mix. And it makes those same vocals bigger sounding at the same time. Is it the best LA2A clone out there? I don't know since I can't test it against all the rest. But it's darn good. BTW, let me put to rest any fears about build quality, etc. This is my second (and won't be my last) piece of Warm Audio kit. Absolutely no issues with the way these beasts arrive and work. Possibly, outside of acoustic treatment, the best investment I've ever made in my studio.

5
18/08/2024

[12.075 lb] The right design. The right build. The right weight. The right attachments. The right tighteners. The right color. I looked at a lot of other options but the WAMBA is just right.

5
07/08/2024

[12.075 lb] Needed the right Microphone to record my Acoustics guitars
This is it makes all the difference in the recording crisp accurate recording for a balanced sound. Thank you B&H again for an easy buy

5
21/07/2024

[Blue] Got one of these mics for drum recording and figured I'd double up on them as an overhead pair. They sound perfect for the job. Had an issue with the capsule on the first WA mic I got and their warranty support was quick and effective.

5
15/07/2024

[12.075 lb] If you're looking for a true professional 44BX sound, look no further! I was amazed at the sound and quality. Insides with the exception of transformer, look identical to the legendary 44BX. Why spend $3000 to $5000 for a similar looking replica when you can buy this for under $1000? I've already bought 2 and love them! I'm a professional broadcaster and voice-over announcer with 50+ years of broadcast experience.

5
29/06/2024

[12.075 lb] Excellent and easy to use. Great sound

5
23/05/2024

[12.075 lb] I did a good bit of research and am glad I decided on the Warm Audio WA-47 tube microphone. Great addition for my home studio. I'm using it for both music production and voice over. Interfacing with ART Voice Channel. Love the rich smooth sound. No limitations, complaints or areas for improvement.

5
17/04/2024

[Blue] This little mic really shines in places that nothing else quite works. It captures transients like a small condenser, but without the extra crispiness the condenser brings. I've used it on guitars and ukuleles with a wonderful response. You can get up close without it getting boomy like most dynamics, and it doesn't capture the room noise like a condenser. Its size is also greatly appreciated... easy placement. I used it on some background vocals, too, with a nice airy/smooth result. It feels as though it's built like a tank, too. I've never used the original AKG version this was modeled after, but this new one will be cherished in my collection and used regularly!!

5
16/04/2024

[Blue] I love the microphone. It has the heavy feel of quality, it comes with a beautiful black velvet lined wooden box, and the sound is great. It has a warm sound quality with a well controlled high end response - not at all harsh or overly sibilant - very silky smooth on the high end and a warm low end response, even from a couple of feet away in cardioid pattern. However, there were a couple of minor quality control issues with the microphone. When I got it, the pattern select switch would not go into the Omni pattern, because the mic electronics cover was rotated, and tightened down, so that the switch would bump into the pattern switch cutout before it would go all the way into the omni - directional pattern. This was an easy and obvious fix, however, it should not have come from the factory like this. Also, the screw that locks the shock mount from rotating up and down, would not lock it. The reason was that there was some plastic flashing from the screw knob, molded into some of the threads of the locking screw, preventing it from tightening all the way. The fix required carefully removing the plastic from the threads. This, again, should not have come from the factory like this. But, when you consider the general quality and price of the microphone, these are. really, minor issues.

5

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