Opto-2A

Intro

Opto-2A is the tube compressor that started it all, first introduced in broadcasting and recording studios in the 1960s, its exceptionally warm sound and delicate compression character have made it the staple it has been for over half a century since its inception.

Description

With only Gain and Peak Reduction knobs, the Opto-2A is exceedingly simple to control. With a turn of its switch, the compressor becomes a limiter. The key to its unique personality is the T4 optical attenuator, a technology stemming from optical sensors originally developed for the US military. The Opto-2A sonic signature is the two-stage release which greatly contributes to its smooth and musical compression or a warm analog drive when pushed harder.

Despite its simple controls, Opto-2A is infinitely versatile but being designed for broadcast it shines especnoially bright when applied to vocals due to its incredible musical response to the human voice. Slap this compressor on the monitor chain of a singer or a voice-over artist and you'll hear its instant impact on their performance. Able to handle and control a wide range of dynamics, Opto-2A is also a great choice for compressing or limiting bass lines.

History

Opto-2A draws inspiration from a renowned tube-based optical compressor from the 1960s. Built around the distinctive T4 optical cell and known for its smooth, musical response, it delivers effortless and natural level control through a simple set of controls. Its sensitivity to input dynamics has made it a favorite among generations of engineers and producers — heard on vocals from Alanis Morissette, Kurt Cobain, and Jack White to Shakira.

Highlights

· A meticulous model of a one-of-a-kind tube electro-optical compressor.

· The compressor of choice for vocals or bass.

· Compression ratio varies depending on the input signal.

· Average attack time fixed at 10 mS.

· Initial release time around 60 mS for 50% of the release, with the rest occurring gradually over 1-15 sec before the signal goes back to 100%.

· Release time responds to the length and strength of the source signal – above-threshold signal yields slower release time and vice-versa.

*The Opto-2A software product is not affiliated with nor has been sponsored or endorsed by any company.