Universal Audio LA-610 Mk II Tube Channel Strip

The LA-610 defined the affordable, ultimate vintage tone channel strip. So how can UA improve on tonal perfection and what was already a hit product?

Enter the sequel... Universal Audio LA-610 Mk II, a second-generation revamp of the original 2005 LA-610 design. While the preamp and compressor are identical to the original LA-610 that users have come to know and love, user-requested features such as true compressor bypass, larger metering, improved output signal, an auto-sensing power supply have been added bringing the end user an enhanced user experience. The LA-610 Mk II also features the highly popular “black on black” cosmetics of the LA-610 Signature Edition.

The LA-610 Mk II packs tremendous sonic versatility and is an ideal front-end for tracking with modern DAWs and the serious project studio looking to get the UA sonic experience: Real quality and character at an accessible price. The LA-610 Mk II is based on the legendary console modules developed by Bill Putnam in the 60's. Noted for their musical character and warmth, countless classics from Sinatra to Van Halen have been recorded using these preamps. After the preamp section, the LA-610 Mk II offers the T4 optical compressor. The simple operation and program dependent nature of the LA-610 T4 compressor provides the same extremely musical control that has made the LA-2A such a well-loved classic for over 40 years. The electro-optical detector or "T4 cell” is the very heart and soul of the Teletronix LA-2A. The unique combination of electroluminescent panel and photo-resistors inside the T4 cell are the crucial circuit components that give both compressors their signature sound.

MK II Improvements

• True Bypass of the Compressor Circuit
• Larger and Better Lit Metering
• Improved Output Signal Performance
• Auto-Sensing Universal Power Supply
• Improved stability with feedback-style shelving EQ
• Improved consistency with Input Gain values
• LED Jewel Light Never Needs Replacing

Specifications:

• Mic, Line and Hi-Z Input, Line Output
• Dual Impedance Mic and Hi-Z inputs (Mic: 2K, 500Ω, Hi-Z: 2.2M, 47KΩ)
• 5 position Stepped Preamp Input Gain, Continuous Preamp Output Level
• -15 dB Pad Switch (15 dB Pad/Off)
• Phase reverse (0/180º)
• 48 volt Phantom Power switch (+48v/Off)
• ±9 dB stepped High Shelving Filter (4.5, 7, 10 kHz)
• ±9 dB stepped Low Shelving Filter (70, 100, 200 Hz)
• T4 Optical Compressor with Continuous Peak Reduction and Makeup Gain
• Compress/Limit/Bypass Modes of Dynamic Operation (3:1 / ∞: 1)
• Meter Source Selector Switch (Preamp/Gain Reduction/Compressor)
• Front Panel Power switch (On/Off)
• Custom Altran and Cinemag Transformers