TL Audio 5021 MKII 2-Channel Tube Compressor
Valve compression is now universally recognised as one of the essential tools for today’s recording engineer. The Ivory 5021 provides everything you would expect from a TL Audio compressor - first class audio quality, bags of flexibility and a price tag so modest you'd be forgiven for thinking it was a printing error! Now the new 5021 features hard and soft knee modes, four attack and release times, an improved optical gate design and an optional digital output. Like the C-1 compressor, the 5021 uses our own special transconductance amplifier design that avoids the use of VCAs - ensuring maximum audio transparency. So whether you’re hitting the end stops or just providing gentle dynamic control, the 5021 delivers super-smooth results every time!
The 5021 employs two valve stages per channel, in the form of a Sovtek ECC83/12AX7A twin triode valve run from a stabilised 150V DC supply. One stage is in the preamp, and the other is in the gain control element of the compressor.
* Each channel provides continuously variable control of: Input Gain, Threshold, Ratio, Gain Make-Up and Output Gain
* NEW Four attack times: from 'Fast' (0.5mS) to 'Slow' (40mS)
* NEW Four release times: from 'Fast' (40mS) to 'Slow' (4S)
* NEW Hard/soft knee compression modes
* Automatic "Hold" facility reduces LF distortion
* NEW Optical gate with variable control of threshold (from -10dB to 'off')
* ‘Bypass?and 'Stereo link' modes
* Switchable VU meters provide indication of output level or gain reduction
* Drive and Peak LEDs to indicate internal signal levels
* Front panel instrument inputs
* Balanced XLR line inputs/outputs duplicated on unbalanced jack connectors
* Sidechain insert points
* NEW Optional 24 bit stereo digital output)
Specifications:
* Balanced Line Input: Maximum level: +26dBu
* Balanced Line Outputs: Maximum level: +26dBu
* Frequency Response: 10Hz to 40kHz, +0, -1dB
* Noise: -80dBu (22Hz to 22kHz)
* Dynamic Range: 106dB (Line input @ 0dB gain)
* Power Supply: Consumption: 20VA typical
* Dimensions: 483 x 200 x 88mm
* Shipping Weight: 6kg
Retail:
£490
$499-999
Used
£200-£300
$280-420
Verdict,
Not recommended on the mix bus. FMR RNC is a better choice at this price point. Opinion about this product is reflected in the vast numbers that are listed on ebay & other used audio sites every week. Some users complain about that valves not affecting the sound much. There are better alternatives. If you are after a transparent compressor, the FMR RNC will do a better job. If you are looking for a compressor for colouring your sounds, look for the Symetrix 501 (toggle switch) or the Ashly SC-50.
Comments [0]