Warm Audio WA-2A Mode D'emploi page 4

NOW LET'S GET STARTED!
HARDWARE CONTROLS — FRONT PANEL
Limit/Compress Switch
In Compress mode, the WA-2A operates as a signal compressor with a compression ratio that
is fixed but also somewhat source-dependent. In Limit mode, the ratio of the compressor is raised
much closer to infinity, allowing the WA-2A to behave more like a hard limiter. The difference
between these settings can be subtle with lower amounts of gain reduction; but become more audible
with heavier amounts of compression.
Meter Adjust
This control allows your to calibrate your VU meter. To calibrate the VU, be sure that your unit is powered on, that no
audio input or output or stereo link cable is connected, and that both gain and peak reduction are turned down. Set
Meter Select switch to Gain Reduction, and adjust the meter until the needle rests at 0 dB.
Output Gain
This control adjusts the amount of makeup gain applied to the output. The WA-2A has approximately 40 dB
of available gain. In practical use, this is generally much more gain than required; and care should
be taken to start off at a safe recording level, adjusting as needed.
Peak Reduction
This control adjusts the amount of compression applied by the WA-2A, by raising or lowering
the compression threshold. The WA-2A can apply as much as nearly 40 dB of gain reduction. In
practical use, 40 dB of gain reduction would be more than what may be considered musical or
transparent; however, this much compression can be useful as a creative effect or used in parallel with an
uncompressed or differently compressed track (more on this will be discussed later in the manual). As a general
rule, we suggest to start with a moderate amount of peak reduction and adjust further by ear to achieve the desired
amount of compression.
Though the WA-2A does not have a true bypass; a soft-bypass can be achieved by turning Peak
Reduction fully counterclockwise. The audio signal will pass through the unit's transformers and
tube stages, providing a subtle amount of sheen and warmth.
3