Overview

What do you want from a compressor? There are a multitude of comps in the hardware and software realms, all of which control dynamics effectively. But many astute, golden-eared engineers want something more—that elusive euphonious warmth and musicality imparted by certain vintage tube units. Specifically, we're talking about the coveted optocompressors of the past, which played an important role in shaping the sound of modern music. The Heritage Audio Tubesessor optical tube compressor brings these desirable sonic qualities to the table, controlling your levels efficiently and transparently and adding a dash of enhancement while maintaining the original sonic character of any signal you send through it.

Works wonders on mission critical tracks

Of course, you can expect any high-quality FET or VCA compressor to provide competent level control. But for effective dynamics control and a warm, natural, highly musical sound, we tend to favor classic tube levelers, especially those based on optical designs. The Heritage Audio Tubesessor employs a specially designed opto cell that, in addition to keeping your levels in check, delivers the smooth, sweetly musical feel and “sag” that works wonders on vocals, bass, and other mission-critical tracks that can make or break your mixture.

Tube Saturation: compressor as a musical instrument

Need more texture and bite? No problem! The Tubesessor incorporates Heritage Audio's tube saturation circuit, which utilizes a creamy-sounding new-and-old Raytheon dual-triode tube to punch through signals with everything from a subtle edge to a full fusillade of take-no-prisoners tubular aggression. Critically, the Tube Saturation section works in conjunction with the custom output transformer to produce the ideal harmonic content for each of the circuit's four modes, which range from Classic (no saturation) to Hot (extreme). It's amazing to be able to instantly switch and A/B between these settings. This innovative feature turns the Tubesessor into much more than a compressor. Let's just say you haven't lived until you've heard what the Tubesessor can do with drums, guitar and other instruments!

Multiple sidechain filter settings for enhanced processing

Tubesessor provides a selection of five built-in sidechain filter settings. Two of these ensure that the compression action is not unduly influenced by low-frequency content in the source material, while the other three are frequency-specific options for enhanced creative signal processing. Specified with continuously adjustable attack and release controls, plus a fixed mode, the Tubesessor provides every possible setting to shape your signals exactly how you want them. Its large custom VU meter — selectable for Input, Output or Gain Reduction — ensures you always know the operating status. Bottom line: Tubesessor gives you everything you need to get world-class, professional recordings.

Masterful design delivers excellent results

The Tubesessor features an all-tube amplification stage, with a vintage AMI replica input transformer and a custom all-silicon steel output transformer. The use of an audiophile-grade dual-output triode in a totem pole arrangement provides a solid output stage while allowing for much greater headroom than typical vintage or modern tube compressors. Heritage Audio also designed the Tubesessor with a higher internal operating voltage to warm up your signals while maintaining their natural character and vibration. Even with large amounts of gain reduction, tracks processed by Tubesessor retain their clarity and depth. As with Heritage Audio's other tube offerings, the company has purchased an abundant supply of top-of-the-line NOS tubes to protect your investment, ensuring many years of reliable service. The Tubesessor's 3U front panel accommodates large buttons for easy, precise adjustments and settings recall. From technical aspects to ergonomics, the Tubesessor is a masterful design. But that's exactly what we expect from Heritage Audio.

Heritage Audio: Legendary performance and epic value

Founded in 2011 by engineer/producer Peter Rodriguez, Heritage Audio immediately began designing and manufacturing equipment inspired by legendary vintage British console modules, leveraging the same transformer-coupled Class A circuitry, with functionality geared toward today's studio workflows. . The company then turned its attention across the Atlantic with the acclaimed MotorCity EQ and the Herchild 670 and 660. Now, Heritage presents its version of another American classic with the Tubesessor. Designed to exacting tolerances and meticulously crafted in the company's factory in Spain, Heritage Audio gear delivers clean, fuss-free audio with generous headroom and the vintage-flavored sounds we all crave. We are proud to offer you this distinguished line of high-performance professional audio equipment.

Characteristics

• Optical compression detection;
• Fully tube-based amplification stage;
• Input and output fully balanced by transformer;
• Tube saturation section;
• Large, easy-to-use control set;
• Wide Attack and Release control;
• 5 Sidechain Filter Settings;
• Large and informative VU meter;
• Premium NOS tubes;
• Mil-spec build quality.

Specifications

• Type: optical compressor tube;
• Number of channels: single channel;
• Controls: Gain, Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Tube Saturation, SC Filter;
• Limit: -40dB to 0dB;
• Ratio: 2:1 to 10:1;
• Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.15dB);
• Inputs: 1 x XLR;
• Outputs: 1 x XLR;
• Other I/O: 1 x 1/4 in. (stereo connection);
• Tubes: 1 x CK5755, 1 x 12BH7A;
• Rack Spaces: 3U;
• Power source: Standard IEC AC cable.