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The IGS Audio Tubecore 3U is a fully symmetric transformer balanced stereo mastering compressor. The structure is based on the typical vari-mu solution. Apart from the classic INPUT, THRESHOLD and OUTPUT controls it introduces switchable high pass filter in the sidechain, parallel compression (MIX knob), independent ATTACK and RELEASE switches and user replaceable tubes accessible from the back of the unit.
The Tubecore was designed as a studio mastering compressor. It is built using the 3U enclosure, which improves front panel clarity and makes it easier to replace tubes located at the back. The compressor allows you to work either in dual mono or mid/side mode (M/S). The Mode switch has two bypass positions – they both do the same, but IGS has added the second one for your comfort and quick A/B comparing.
The design of the Tubecore 3U is based on the ease of tube replacement. As a user, you can choose between a few types: 6N1P-EW – standard set of tubes, “standard” IGS compression, 6BC8/6BZ8 – tight, transparent, punchy compression, 6386 – legendary compression, by famous twin triode, 5670 – deep and dark tube compression. The User Manual describes in detail how to replace tubes, so it is quick and straightforward.
Every single Tubecore 3U is hand made with high quality, matched components (1% metal film resistors, Wima caps). It is equipped with 6N1P-EW NOS tubes and individually calibrated to give you the unique and unspoiled experience of one of the best vari-mu compressors in history. It is equipped with Carnhill and Sowter audio transformers.
Tubecore, now it’s stuck in my head. I’ve have this magic box for a month now and I like it more and more. A little bit is all one needs to get the glue and the sound. It lends such thickness to mixes that you thought already had it. Punch and attention to percs. I love what it does to everything, that said, it’s not for everything, as it has a very distinctive sound — a sound I won’t soon get tired off as of now. It’d be invisible if it weren’t for the transformer saturation and tube thickness. All compression is lovely and transparent. The stepped potentiometers are so solid and reliable and nicely large, as well, the lovely to look at VU meters. Worth more than the asking price by leaps and bounds imo, and built like a tank that inspires creativity.
Incredibly creamy sound, smooth variable MU style compression. I think I actually prefer this to the Manley Vari-Mu for mix glue.
My master bus currently consists of an SSL Bus+ into the IGS Tubecore 3U followed by IGS Rubber Bands Pultec-style EQ and finally the Neve MBC. The Tubecore is the meat in the signal path, but it's not nearly as heavy handed as my Manley Vari-Mu was... which I think is a huge improvement. The Tubecore is more open sounding, with just enough saturation to add the right amount of thickener. I use it almost exclusively in Mid-Side mode, with a preference towards compressing the mids but just dialing-up the side output level without adding any compression. The tracks just seem to surround you! The metering, controls and layout are all perfect in my view. I'm very happy I made the switch, and Vintage King was very helpful indeed!
Unbelievable quality and sound. Everything I put through this sounds multitudes better. Great for drum buss, master buss, guitars, and piano. Can't recommend it enough.
This is probably my favorite vari-mu.
The best gear advice always comes from those who use it the most. That's where you come in! Let the pro audio world hear your voice with a review of the IGS Audio Tubecore Mastering Vari-Mu Compressor . Once you submit your review, please check your email and verify your address to have it posted.
