Locomotive Audio Power-MU 500

The Locomotive Audio Power-Mu is a fully-featured, stereo valve compressor in 500 series format, offering stepped controls, custom transformers, vari-mu topology, and advanced threshold shaping for stereo bus applications.

Stepped Controls for Precision and Recall

With 21-position stepped knobs for both input and output gain, the Power-Mu enables engineers to recall exact settings with ease. This design ensures consistent performance and saves time during mix revisions or A/B comparisons.

Custom Transformers and Tube Circuitry

The unit features bespoke interstage transformers, designed to deliver compression that remains musical and transparent even under heavier gain reduction. Each channel employs a NOS (new old stock) dual triode valve, facilitating authentic vari-mu compression and rich harmonic content that enhances stereo material.

AC and DC Threshold Control

The Power-Mu offers two types of threshold adjustments—AC and DC—giving engineers fine control over the onset, character, and intensity of compression. Lower DC threshold settings introduce compression with a smooth, gentle knee, while higher settings engage a firmer response, approaching limiting.

Sidechain High-Pass Filtering

An onboard sidechain low-cut filter allows users to remove low-frequency content from the detection circuit. This prevents bass-heavy signals from triggering unwanted gain reduction, maintaining clarity and punch in the low end.

Stereo Link Functionality

A stereo link feature ensures both channels apply identical gain reduction, preserving stereo image integrity and preventing phase anomalies across the mix bus.

Hardwire Bypass and Power Control

The hardwire bypass switch enables immediate comparison between the original and processed signal paths, while a dedicated power switch allows users to conserve valve life and reduce overall current draw from the 500 series chassis.

The Power-Mu Experience

The Power-Mu places gain staging, harmonic generation, and compression character directly under the user’s control. Engineers can drive the input for added saturation, dial back the output to manage level, and precisely set compression behaviour through the dual-threshold system. This combination of flexibility, sonic integrity, and tactile control defines the Power-Mu as a modern essential for stereo dynamics processing.

Lifetime Warranty

Locomotive Audio stands by its craftsmanship by offering a lifetime warranty on the Power-Mu, ensuring that professionals can rely on it session after session without concern for longevity or repair costs.

• 500 series dual-channel tube compressor with stepped controls
• Custom interstage transformers ensure smooth, musical compression
• NOS dual triode valves deliver true vari-mu response and harmonics
• AC and DC thresholds shape compression onset and ratio
• Sidechain low-cut filter prevents over-compression from bass
• Stereo link function maintains phase coherence
• Hardwire bypass and power switch enhance usability and tube longevity

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.