The Essentials to Know About the KLARK TEKNIK 2A-KT Tube Optical Compressor
- Tube optical compression inspired by the legendary LA-2A for silky vocals and bass, featuring a fully discrete signal path.
- Custom Midas transformers and selected 12AX7, 12BH7, EL84 tubes for musical coloration and generous headroom.
- Modern control with adjustable stereo-link, variable pre-emphasis, and vintage-style meter.
- Pro reliability thanks to a robust 2U rack chassis, symmetrical Neutrik XLR connectors, and universal power supply, designed and manufactured in the UK.
In the Tradition of Great Studio Opto Compressors
Designed as a "leveling amplifier" in the style of the 1960s classics, the 2A-KT carefully shapes dynamics with immediate musicality. The electroluminescent optical cell reproduces the signature of the original while benefiting from a modern, discrete, and silent architecture for uncompromising integration into modern studios.
Who and What Is It For?
Ideal for vocal and bass tracking, it provides natural control and analog density right from recording. In mixing, the adjustable stereo-link allows gluing a pair of synths, guitars, or an instrument bus. The variable pre-emphasis proves valuable with digital sources and broadcast transmission to preserve high frequencies while maintaining a high perceived level.
What Makes the Difference Daily
The 2A-KT combines the smoothness of the opto with a 10 ms attack and a program-dependent release from 50 ms to 5 s, following the music without pumping. The Midas transformers shape a solid low end and silky highs, while the universal switching power supply guarantees stability and silence on all stages. The retro meter displays either gain reduction or output, facilitating recalls and consistency between takes.
Technical Specifications
Architecture and Processing
- Classic tube compressor/leveling amplifier inspired by the iconic Teletronix LA-2A
- Fully discrete signal path
- Optical attenuator without offset based on original electroluminescent technology
- Frequency response: 10 Hz to 20 kHz, +/- 1 dB
- Gain reduction: 0 to 30 dB
- Ultra-fast attack time: 10 milliseconds
- Release time: 50 milliseconds to 5 seconds
- Adjustable stereo-link connection
- Variable pre-emphasis for digital audio recording and broadcast transmission
Components and Audio
- Premium selected 12AX7, 12BH7, and EL84 tubes
- Custom Midas input and output transformers
- Transformer-balanced inputs and outputs on Neutrik XLR connectors
Control and Display
- Vintage-style meter with gain reduction and output display
Chassis, Format, and Power Supply
- Robust 2U rack-mount chassis for durability in portable applications
- 19-inch rack format - 2U
- Universal auto-select switching power supply
- Designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom
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