Teletronix

Teletronix was an American manufacturer of audio equipment that was founded in the 1950s by James F. Lawrence, an electrical engineer who specialized in developing vacuum tube-based technology. The company’s name was inspired by the emerging field of electronics and the increasing role of “tele-“communications in the mid-20th century.

In its early days, Teletronix produced a number of innovative and highly regarded audio processing devices, including the LA-2 Leveling Amplifier, which became a classic piece of studio gear and was widely used in recording studios around the world. The LA-2, also known as the “Silver Box,” was a tube-based compressor/limiter that featured an electro-optical attenuator and a unique gain-reduction element that imparted a warm, musical character to the sound.

Teletronix was acquired by Universal Audio, another prominent manufacturer of audio equipment, in the late 1990s. Universal Audio later developed a digital plugin version of the LA-2A, which became a staple in the recording industry and helped to cement the legacy of Teletronix’s pioneering designs.

Today, Teletronix is remembered as an important contributor to the history of audio technology, and its products continue to be highly regarded by musicians, engineers, and audiophiles. The LA-2A, in particular, remains a favorite among professionals who value its warm, natural sound and musical character.