AudioScape AS-2A

The AudioScape AS-2A Optical Compressor is a handcrafted 3U valve optical compressor that recreates the classic LA-2A-style compression circuit with NOS tubes, custom-wound Cinemag transformers, an in-house T4B opto-attenuator, up to +40dB of make-up gain, stereo linking capability, and modern sidechain control enhancements for professional studio recording, mixing, and mastering applications.

Classic Optical Compression with Modern Enhancements

The AudioScape AS-2A delivers the smooth, musical compression response that made the original optical tube compressor one of the most respected dynamics processors in recording history. Its optical gain reduction circuit combines a light source and photo-sensitive element to create a naturally responsive compression characteristic that engineers value for vocals, bass, guitars, keyboards, and mix bus duties.

AudioScape builds the AS-2A around the same core principles that defined the original design while introducing carefully considered updates that improve usability and versatility in modern production environments.

Authentic Vintage Circuit Design

AudioScape recreates the original signal path with exceptional attention to detail. The AS-2A uses premium NOS valves throughout the audio section, NOS Allen-Bradley carbon composition resistors, and carefully selected Cornell Dubilier, Panasonic, and Nichicon capacitors to achieve the tonal character associated with vintage optical compressors.

Custom-wound Cinemag input and output transformers provide the transformer saturation, harmonic richness, and depth expected from a high-end valve compressor. These components contribute significantly to the warm, detailed sound that engineers seek when choosing optical compression.

Hand-Built T4B Opto-Attenuator

At the heart of the AS-2A sits AudioScape’s in-house manufactured T4B opto-attenuator. Built using carefully matched photocells and replica electroluminescent panels, this component follows the original vintage specification rather than later revisions commonly found in modern recreations.

The T4B determines the compressor’s attack and release behaviour, delivering the smooth gain reduction and musical response that optical compressors remain famous for decades after their introduction.

Expanded Compression Control

AudioScape enhances the traditional design by relocating the R37 high-frequency sidechain trim control from the rear panel to the front panel. This modification gives engineers immediate access to a powerful shaping tool that influences how the compressor reacts to different frequency content.

With the control set fully clockwise, the sidechain remains flat and behaves similarly to a traditional vintage unit. Rotating the control counter-clockwise increases resistance and reduces the influence of low-frequency energy within the sidechain. This adjustment prevents bass-heavy material from triggering excessive compression and allows the compressor to focus more precisely on midrange and high-frequency content.

The result is greater flexibility across a wider range of recording and mixing scenarios.

Period-Correct Construction

The AS-2A features a USA-made 3U rackmount chassis that recreates the distinctive appearance of the original unit. AudioScape also incorporates the original hinged front-panel design, providing convenient internal access while maintaining historical accuracy.

From the Davies-style knobs to the analogue gain reduction meter and premium Carling switches, every element reflects the aesthetic and functionality of the classic compressor while meeting modern reliability standards.

Professional Studio Integration

The AS-2A integrates seamlessly into professional recording environments through electronically balanced +4dBu circuitry, Neutrik XLR input and output connections, and a rear-panel stereo link connection for paired operation.

A custom multi-voltage power transformer supports both 120V and 240V operation, making the unit suitable for studios worldwide.

Why Choose the AudioScape AS-2A Optical Compressor

• Delivers the smooth, musical optical compression character associated with the most sought-after vintage studio compressors.

• Enhances vocals, bass, acoustic instruments, and mix buses with natural dynamic control and rich harmonic depth.

• Provides greater flexibility than traditional recreations through its front-panel sidechain frequency control.

• Uses premium NOS components and custom transformers to achieve authentic vintage tone and response.

• Offers hand-built craftsmanship and meticulous quality control throughout the manufacturing process.

• Integrates easily into professional studio workflows with balanced connectivity and stereo linking capability.

• Combines classic valve warmth with modern reliability for demanding recording, mixing, and mastering applications.

• Handcrafted in the USA
• 3U 19-inch rackmount chassis
• Period-correct hinged front panel design
• Optical valve compressor based on the classic 2A circuit
• In-house manufactured T4B opto-attenuator
• Premium NOS tubes throughout the audio path
• Custom-wound Cinemag input transformer
• Custom-wound Cinemag output transformer
• NOS Allen-Bradley carbon composition resistors
• Cornell Dubilier polypropylene capacitors
• Panasonic polyester capacitors
• Nichicon capacitors
• Front-panel high-frequency sidechain trim control
• Compress and limit operating modes
• Up to +40dB make-up gain
• Analogue gain reduction meter
• Electronically balanced +4dBu circuitry
• Neutrik XLR input and output connectors
• Stereo link function via rear-panel TRS connection
• Alpha potentiometers and rotary switch
• Carling toggle switche
• Davies-style control knobs
• Custom 120V/240V power transformer
• Compatible with professional recording, mixing and mastering workflows

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.