Introducing the AudioScape DA-3A Dual-Channel Optical Levelling Amplifier, AudioScape’s authentic recreation of the iconic Teletronix LA-3A solid-state levelling amplifier—a true classic among optical compressors. Once a “secret weapon” in studios worldwide, its distinctive mid-forward tone and precise response continue to make it a favourite for producers and engineers. Perfect for adding punch to stereo drum mixes, taming vocals, or bringing rhythm guitars to life, the AudioScape DA-3A is an indispensable tool for any studio.
This versatile comp/limiter shines at subtle settings but truly comes alive when pushed, delivering aggressive, in-your-face compression reminiscent of the original. It adds undeniable energy to drum mixes and acts as a reliable vocal leveller, maintaining consistent control no matter how dynamic the performance. Set it and forget it – the AudioScape DA-3A is all about effortless, reliable control.
Enhancing the original circuit design, AudioScape includes a standard gain structure mod inspired by legendary mixer Bob Clearmountain. This modification reduces the already minimal noise floor, ensuring exceptional clarity and performance.
Hand-built in the USA to the highest standards, the AudioScape DA-3A combines vintage authenticity with modern reliability. It features NOS components wherever possible, precise custom replicas when necessary, and premium modern parts for durability. Designed for optimum tone and built to last, the DA-3A exemplifies AudioScape’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
The AudioScape DA-3A is AudioScape’s authentic take on the iconic 3A optical compressor, introduced in 1969 as the next generation of the classic 2A Levelling Amplifier. Using the T4B opto-attenuator in a solid-state circuit instead of tubes, it offered greater transparency and a faster, more variable attack, making it exceptional for vocals and guitars. Although it didn’t achieve the fame of the 2A or 76, it became a studio “secret weapon,” relied upon by producers and engineers worldwide.
AudioScape’s DA-3A faithfully recreates the original while enhancing it with a dual-channel design, eliminating the need to link separate units for stereo operation. It features AudioScape’s in-house T4B opto-attenuator, proprietary hand-wound transformers, and precise replicas of the original components, including NOS metal-can transistors and period-correct carbon film resistors.
Modern updates include moving rear-mounted controls like LINK and LIMIT/COMPRESS switches to the front, adding a stereo adjust pot for balancing gain reduction and a high-frequency contour pot to make the AudioScape DA-3A more responsive to high and high-mid frequencies. A gain structure mod inspired by Bob Clearmountain further reduces its already low noise floor, ensuring outstanding clarity.
Handcrafted in Daytona Beach, Florida, the AudioScape DA-3A reflects AudioScape’s commitment to vintage authenticity, using NOS components wherever possible and high-quality modern parts for reliability. The result is a superior recreation of a studio classic, blending vintage tone with modern usability.
Features
- Handcrafted in the USA in Small Batches
- Dual Mono or Stereo Operation
- Stereo-Link Switch- Stereo Linking at the Flip of a Switch
- Stereo Adjust Control – Balances Gain Reduction When Linked. Fully Variable with Center Detent
- Fully Integrated Bob Clearmountain-Inspired Gain Mod
- HF Emphasis Control (Fully Variable) – Allows you to FOCUS the Compression to a Specific Area of the Frequency Spectrum
- AudioScape’s In-House Built Tb4 Opto-Attenuator
- AudioScape’s Proprietary Input/ Output Transformers and Auto-former, Built to Original Spec
- Cornell Dubilier Polypropylene Axial Capacitors
- NOS Metal-Can Transistors
- Allen-Bradley Carbon Film Resistors in Key Areas of the Signal Path
- Alpha Potentiometers
- Bypass Switch
- Custom AudioScape Illuminated VU Meter – Switchable Between Output Level or Gain-Reduction
