Universal Audio LA-610 MKII (LA-610 mk2) (Vacuum Tube Preamp/LA-2A Type Compressor) (Official Japanese Product) (Universal Audio)

■Features: The legendary 610 vacuum tube microphone preamp and EQ, used in countless recordings from jazz to rock.
Authentic classic LA-2A style T4 optical tube compression. Tube-powered mic preamp, EQ, and compressor. Class A, authentic vintage sound. Features Altran and Cinemag custom transformers. Input impedance control for maximum compatibility with a wide range of microphones and instruments. Includes 15dB pad, 48V phantom power, and phase reverse switches. Hand-assembled in the USA by skilled technicians to ensure the highest UA quality.

■MkII Improvements ・True bypass compressor circuit ・Larger meters and LED lights for improved visibility ・Increased output level ・Auto-switching power supply ・Improved shelving EQ stability ・Improved gain consistency ・Long-lasting LED jewel light

■A best-selling vacuum tube channel strip that pursues ease of use.

◎An evolved recording standard channel strip!
◎The combination of the 610 vacuum tube preamp and T4 optical compressor is a must-listen!

The LA-610, UA's most popular product, is a tube channel strip that delivers authentic vintage tone at a price point accessible to project studios and personal users. The LA-610 has now evolved even further with the LA-610 Mk II. While the LA-610's highly acclaimed preamp and compressor remain unchanged, the new LA-610 Mk II offers true bypass for the compressor, a larger meter, and increased output level, further enhancing user performance. The LA-610 also features the popular black-on-black panel found on the LA-610SE for a bolder look.

"CineMag Transformer" adopted
These American-made transformers are meticulously crafted by the Reichenbach family, who have been manufacturing transformers for classic instruments like Altec since the 1940s. They're essential to the vintage sound of the LA-610 Signature Edition, and are also used for its inputs and outputs. They're a key part of the LA-610, adding richness, depth, and presence to the sound.

The LA-610 Mk II is the perfect starting point for tracking in a DAW. Its rich, versatile sound delivers the true quality and character that only the real thing can offer. The LA-610 channel strip delivers exceptional value for money.

●610 vacuum tube microphone preamplifier, EQ section
The LA-610's 610 preamp and EQ section are based on and further improved from the legendary 610 preamp section of Bill Putnam's console, the same preamp section as the industry's highest TEC Award-winning 6176.

The 610 console has been used since the 1960s to record countless classic albums, including those by Frank Sinatra and The Doors. Its natural, musical sound and texture are characteristic of the 610, and the M610 and 6176 preamps, which are based on the 610, are beloved by many engineers as essential preamps for recording vocal tracks.

●T4 compressor section
The LA-2A has been a favorite of many studios and engineers for over 40 years. To recreate that unique sound, we've adopted the same T4 cell (optical detector) that forms the core of the LA-2A's sound character, along with the same gain control. Despite the simple controls, you can achieve extremely musical compression.

The T4 compressor, based on the LA-2A, is undoubtedly one of the most vocally-oriented compressors available. Combined with the 610 preamp and EQ, it delivers exceptional vocal versatility.

●The secret to our low prices achieved without compromising on quality
To create an incredibly cost-effective LA-2A clone without compromising the essence of the LA sound, we meticulously designed it in collaboration with Dennis Frank, an engineer at UREI who designed and manufactured classic UA gear.

Even for a low price, sacrificing sound quality would be a tarnishment to UA's pride. While retaining the T4, the core of the LA-2A's character, we omitted the LA-2A's high-frequency enhancement function, which is not particularly necessary for musical applications, and reduced costs to the utmost. We carefully selected parts, including vacuum tubes, and paid close attention to manufacturing.



Specifications: Mic, Line, Hi-Z input, Line output. Dual impedance Mic, Hi-Z input (Mic: 2k, 500 Ω, Hi-Z: 2.2 M, 47 kΩ).
5-position stepped preamp input gain, continuously variable preamp output control -15dB pad switch (15 dB pad/off)
・Phase inversion (0/180o)
48v phantom power switch (+48v/off)
+/- 9 dB stepped high shelving filters (4.5, 7, 10 kHz)
+/- 9 dB stepped high shelving filters (70, 100, 200 Hz)
T4 Optical Compression (Continuously Variable Peak Reduction, Make-Up Gain)
- Dynamic operation of compressor/limiter/bypass (3:1 / ∞:1)
- Meter source selector switch (preamp/gain reduction/compressor)
- Front panel power switch (on/off)
-Altran and Cinemag special transformers