Universal Audio UAFX Astra Modulation Machine Stereo Effects Pedal
Universal Audio

LA-610 MKII

A classic tube mic preamp & LA-2A-style compressor in a single unit.
Product Highlights
  • Tube Preamp
  • Variable Impedance Switching
  • 2-Band Switchable EQ
  • T4 Based Compressor
  • True Bypass of Compressor
  • Universal Power Supply

  • Overview
  • Tech Specs

The LA-610 Mk II from Universal Audio brings vintage, "all tube" sound to the modern channel strip format. The unit combines a 610 Mic-Pre/EQ/DI section, based on the console modules developed by Bill Putnam in the 1960s, with a T4 Opto-compressor, and houses them in a 2U rack-mount enclosure. The 610-tube preamp, DI and EQ deliver a sound that is as timeless as it is legendary, and a hallmark of many classic recordings. The simple operation and program dependent nature of the T4 compressor provides extremely musical control.

The LA-610 MkII is sonically very versatile and can function as an ideal front-end for tracking into a digital audio workstation. The preamp is augmented with two bands of shelving EQ, followed a T4 based optical compressor. Although not an exact LA-2A clone, the compressor circuitry nevertheless shares its signature sound by utilizing its unique combination of an electro-luminescent panel and photo-resistors. Three 12AX7A tubes, a single 6072A and 6AQ5 tube combine to provide "warmth" and overall even tonal balance.

The Mk II delivers several enhancements over the original LA-610. A true compressor bypass switch is now available which completely avoids the compressor circuitry. Other changes improve the performance of the output signal, improved consistency with input gain values and feedback-style shelving EQ improves the EQ stability. An auto-sensing, universal power supply is included, along with larger and better lit metering.

Number of Channels Single
Inputs 1 x XLR Microphone
1 x XLR Line
Outputs 1 x XLR
Frequency Response 20Hz to 20kHz, +/-0.5dB
Noise -72dBu (20Hz to 20kHz, line in/unity gain)
Preamp
Gain Range +77dB (microphone)
40dB Line
Maximum Output +23dBu (120VAC line)
Input Impedance 500Ω or 2kΩ, selectable
Phantom Power +48V
Compressor
Threshold Range Program dependent
Ratio ~3:1, soft knee, program dependent
Attack Time ~10mSec, program dependent
Release Time Dual stage: ~60mSec for 50% release, followed by 1 to 15Sec, program dependent
Slope Not specified by manufacturer
Sidechain No
Equalizer
Filter Type Low and high shelf
Frequency Bands HF: 4.5, 7 and 10kHz
LF: 70, 100 and 200Hz
Bandwidth Not applicable
Range (Boost/Cut) 1.5, 3, 4.5, 6, 9dB, switchable boost/cut
Light Indication
Threshold Range Program dependent
Ratio ~Infinity:1, soft knee, program dependent
Attack Time ~10mSec, program dependent
De-Esser
Threshold Range Not applicable
Frequency Range Not applicable
Gate
Gate Threshold Not applicable
Gate Rate Not applicable
Physical
Power Requirements 100/120/240V
30W power consumption
Specialties Custom Altran and Cinemag transformers
Auto sensing universal power supply

Dimensions (WxDxH)
  • 19 x 12.25 x 3.5" (483 x 311 x 89mm)

Weight
  • 12 lbs (5.4kg)