Audioscape V3A [500] Leveling Amplifier

The Audioscape V3A is a meticulously crafted, 1:1 recreation of a legendary 1970s optical limiter, reengineered in a convenient 500-series format for modern professionals.

A Precise Recreation of a Timeless Classic

The Audioscape V3A is a faithful reproduction of a much-admired, half-rack optical limiting amplifier from the 1970s, revered for its aggressive midrange, impactful compression, and streamlined operation. The V3A harnesses years of development and innovation to deliver a compressor that faithfully captures the essence of the original unit, providing a sound that is both powerful and versatile. Audioscape has gone to great lengths to ensure that the V3A replicates every sonic nuance of the classic unit, offering engineers a tool that delivers consistently excellent performance at a price accessible to professionals at all levels.

Advanced Circuit Design and Premium Components

Built with the highest standards in mind, the V3A incorporates painstakingly selected, period-correct components that accurately replicate the characteristics of the original design. It is equipped with the "Clearmount Mod," which enhances the versatility of the gain control and reduces the overall noise floor, ensuring that the V3A delivers dynamic compression and tone-shaping capabilities. The use of premium, USA-made components throughout the signal path, including NOS metal-can transistors and Cornell Dubilier polypropylene capacitors, helps to maintain the authenticity and performance of the original unit while optimising it for the 500-series format.

Craftsmanship and Quality Control

Each unit of the V3A is meticulously handcrafted in the USA, ensuring that every component is built to the highest possible standards. Audioscape’s commitment to quality is reflected in the detailed craftsmanship that goes into each V3A unit, with no shortcuts taken. The V3A is built using custom-wound transformers that replicate the originals, including the input, autoformer, and output transformers, all contributing to the unit’s dynamic range and tonal clarity. The addition of Allen-Bradley carbon film resistors in critical areas of the signal path further enhances the overall performance, providing a level of sonic precision rarely found in comparable units.

User-Friendly Features and Versatility

The V3A’s design allows for a variety of creative uses, with several user-controlled features that enhance its flexibility. The HF Emphasis Control is a fully variable knob that allows users to focus the compression on specific areas of the frequency spectrum, providing unparalleled tonal control. The Stereo Link Control, which is fully variable and centre-detented, enables seamless linking between two units, offering ease of use in both mono and stereo applications. For convenience, the V3A features both a bypass switch and a stereo-link switch, allowing engineers to quickly adjust the settings to suit their needs. An illuminated custom VU meter displays both output level and gain reduction, offering a clear visual representation of the unit's performance at a glance.

A Legacy of Sonic Excellence

The Audioscape V3A brings a legendary piece of recording history into the modern era, offering engineers an opportunity to experience the unique compression characteristics of a vintage optical limiter with the added convenience and reliability of the 500-series format. The combination of period-accurate components, innovative circuit design, and expert craftsmanship ensures that the V3A delivers an exceptional sonic experience every time it is engaged.

Built with precision and a deep respect for the original design, the V3A offers an authentic solution for those seeking the classic optical compression found in the finest vintage gear. This unit captures the magic and character of the original design while integrating it into a modern, accessible format, making it a perfect addition to any professional studio.