Universal Audio LA-610 MKII - Audio-Technica ATH M50X - Mogami Gold TRSXLRM-10 (2)

Universal Audio LA610 MKII Overview

The LA-610 Mk II from Universal Audio brings vintage, "all tube" sound to the modern channel strip format. The unit combines a 610 Mic-Pre/EQ/DI section, based on the console modules developed by Bill Putnam in the 1960s, with a T4 Opto-compressor, and houses them in a 2U rack-mount enclosure. The 610-tube preamp, DI and EQ deliver a sound that is as timeless as it is legendary, and a hallmark of many classic recordings. The simple operation and program dependent nature of the T4 compressor provides extremely musical control. The LA-610 MkII is sonically very versatile and can function as an ideal front-end for tracking into a digital audio workstation. The preamp is augmented with two bands of shelving EQ, followed a T4 based optical compressor. Although not an exact LA-2A clone, the compressor circuitry nevertheless shares its signature sound by utilizing its unique combination of an electro-luminescent panel and photo-resistors. Three 12AX7A tubes, a single 6072A and 6AQ5 tube combine to provide "warmth" and overall even tonal balance. The Mk II delivers several enhancements over the original LA-610. A true compressor bypass switch is now available which completely avoids the compressor circuitry. Other changes improve the performance of the output signal, improved consistency with input gain values and feedback-style shelving EQ improves the EQ stability. An auto-sensing, universal power supply is included, along with larger and better lit metering.

Single-channel vintage channel-strip

Design based on legendary Bill Putnam's 610 tube microphone preamp and EQ console modules, used on countless classic recordings

Microphone preamp features Gain and Level controls, variable impedance switching, and Instrument DI for recording tone "color"

Improved stability with feedback-style shelving EQ

Authentic Teletronix LA-2A-style T4 opto-compressor with continuous peak reduction and makeup gain

Compressor circuitry can be fully bypass with the inclusion of a true bypass switch

15dB pad switch and polarity reverse switch

Improved metering with meter source selector switch

LED jewel "power on" indicator light never needs replacement

Auto sensing universal power supply

UA build quality and heritage, audiophile components and hand-assembled in the USA