Classic Opto Compression for Your 500 Series Rack
The original LA-3A Audio Leveler made its debut in 1969 and was an instant hit. Studio engineers loved the half-rackspace solid-state electro-optical compressor for the punchy dynamic control it delivered on electric bass, guitars, and just about any other source. Sweetwater knows you want one, and we have good news: the Serpent Chimera 500 Series Opto Compressor re-creates the circuitry, sonics, and behavior of the classic — everything but the form factor. The vintage-style circuit uses no ICs. The I/O is transformer-balanced. And the sound? Warm and deliciously musical. Treat yourself to classic compression with the Serpent Chimera.
Related Videos: Chimera 500 Series Opto Compressor
All-discrete circuit design
Faithfully replicating the vintage LA-3A circuit, the Chimera brings the classic opto compressor sound to your 500 Series rack. Featuring all-discrete circuit design, Orange Drop and Elna capacitors, an all-steel enclosure, Class AB transistor output, an authentic T4B optical cell, and transformer-balanced input and output, the Serpent Chimera delivers the thick, rich, and smooth opto sound that you’ve been waiting for.
Serpent Chimera 500 Series Opto Compressor Features:
- All-discrete transistor design
- Transformer-balanced input and output
- True T4B optical cell (user replaceable/upgradable)
- CineMag input transformer
- Full steel enclosure for maximum signal shielding
- Custom-wound interstage and output transformers (made to original specifications)
- Includes a renowned modification that increases signal-to-noise ratio
- Hard bypass (relay-controlled)
- Stereo linkable
- HF sidechain Boost (for de-essing)
- Compress/Limit mode
- Sealed pots
- Sifam VU Meter
- VPR compliant (100mA total power consumption)
- Made in the USA
