Golden Age Project / COMP-3A

The COMP-3A is a compressor/leveling amplifier that recreates the legendary vintage LA-3A. Its distinctive features include smooth compression thanks to the T4 electro-optical attenuator and a punchy, analog-like sound.

■ Compressor
■ Mono

~From the distributor website~
■ A high-end compressor that recreates the legendary vintage compressor, the LA-3A.
By incorporating a sound-focused transformer and a generous array of analog components, it recreates a gorgeous analog sound. In addition, the various switches and controls found on the back of the original have all been moved to the front, an upgraded design for easier use.

The Golden Age Project (GAP) COMP-3A is a compressor/leveling amplifier that recreates the legendary vintage LA-3A. It delivers an authentic sound constructed entirely from analog components, including discrete components and independently transformer-balanced inputs and outputs.

Since their debut in 1969, the LA-2A (vacuum tube version) and LA-3A (solid-state version) have been used on countless recordings and have earned their place in history as some of the most famous compressors in history. The T4 Electro-Optical Attenuator is at the heart of both models' unique sound and compression character. The Golden Age Project's COMP-3A meticulously recreates the T4 ELOP, achieving extremely smooth, natural compression that follows the input signal.

The LA-3A's sound, which offers faster attack and release than the LA-2A, is often used on drums, room microphones, piano, and vocals, but is especially popular for recording electric guitar and bass. Its punchy compression sound, with its precise capture of the midrange, has earned it the support of professionals worldwide.

Original vintage equipment is not only expensive, but the maintenance required to achieve the correct sound is also significant. The Golden Age Project COMP-3A is the only tool that lets you experience the delicious compression sound of the LA-3A at an affordable price.

■Features
FEATURES
- Vintage circuit design constructed with discrete components
- Transformer-balanced inputs and outputs
- Internal jumpers allow you to change the output transformer load, allowing you to select the high-frequency sound character
- Detailed reproduction of the legendary T4-style electro-optical attenuator
- Simple and effective control with Gain and Peak controls
- Auto release and attack according to the input signal
- Reproduction of the original ""HF COUNTOUR"" control. Adjustable high-frequency signal compression sensitivity
Large reduction meter (GR amount and +4/+10dB output level switch)
Bypass switch (hardwired bypass using relay)
XLR/TRS phone inputs and outputs
Stereo link switch and link terminal
Controls previously located on the rear of the original LA-3A are now located on the front panel
Includes a 24V AC adapter (PSE-certified 100V for Japan) or can be used with a high-end external power supply (PSAC)
Compact half-rack size (equivalent to 2U in height)
Solid, rugged chassis design