The IGS Tubecore 3U Mastering Compressor is a 3U fully symmetric transformer balanced stereo mastering compressor. While being simple to use and versatile, it adds density and dimension to your mix in a magical way.
The IGS Tubecore 3U Mastering Compressor is the finest mastering compressor ever created. The structure is based on the typical vari-mu solution. Apart from the classic INPUT, THRESHOLD and OUTPUT controls it introduces switchable high pass filter in the sidechain, parallel compression (MIX knob), independent ATTACK and RELEASE switches and user replaceable tubes accessible from the back of the unit.
Comfort of Use
The IGS Tubecore 3U was designed as a studio mastering compressor. It is built using the 3U enclosure, which improves front panel clarity and makes it easier to replace tubes located at the back. The IGS Tubecore 3U Mastering Compressor allows you to work either in dual mono or mid/side mode (M/S). The Mode switch has two bypass positions – they both do the same, but we added the second one for your comfort and quick A/B comparing.
The Tubes
The design of the IGS Tubecore 3U is based on the possibility to replace the tubes. As a user, you can choose between a few types: 6N1P-EW (6N3P-EW) – standard set of tubes, “standard” IGS compression, 6BC8/6BZ8 – tight, transparent, punchy compression, 6386 – legendary compression, by famous twin triode, 5670 – deep and dark tube compression. The User's Manual describes in detail how to replace tubes, so it is quick and straightforward. The user decides how the device should sound.
The Quality
Every single IGS Tubecore 3U is hand made with high quality, matched components (1% metal film resistors, Wima caps). It is equipped with 6N1P-EW (6N3P-EW) NOS tubes and individually calibrated to give you the unique and unspoiled experience of one of the best vari-mu compressors in history. It is equipped with Carnhill and Sowter audio transformers.
IGS Tubecore 3U Mastering Compressor Features
- 3U stereo unit with M/S functionality
- Fully symmetric audio path
- Carnhill input transformer
- Sowter output transformer
- Hard wired bypass
- Sidechain HPF
- Dry/Wet knob for parallel compression
- All stepped manipulators
- XLR input and output
- Large VU meter with LED back light
- External PSU unit for low noise
IGS Tubecore 3U Mastering Compressor Specifications
- Device Type:
- Vari Mu Compressor: Yes
- Basic Features:
- All Stepped Manipulators: 24 Pole Elma Switches
- Sidechain HPF: 120Hz, 60Hz, Off
- Wet/Dry Mixer: 0 - 100%, 4 dB Step
- Mid/Side Processing: OpAmp M-S Encode/Decode
- Input & Output:
- Input Impedance (Balanced): XLR, 10k Ohm, Carnhill Balanced
- Output Impedance (Balanced): XLR, 600 Ohm, Sowter Balanced
- Levels:
- Operating Level: +4dBu
- Max Input Level: +22 dBu
- Max Output Level: +22 dBu
- Dynamic Range: >107 dBA (@ 1kHz, +24 dBu)
- Max. Gain: +35dB
- Max Gain Reduction: 20 dB
- Time Constants:
- Attack: 0.1 - 30 ms
- Release: 0.1 - 4s
- Bandwidth:
- Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz; +/- 0.2dB
- Distortion (@ 20 Hz - 20 kHz):
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 87 dBA
- THD: 0.12 %
- THD+N: 0.15 %
- IMD (SMPTE): 0.32%
- Crosstalk: 82 dB
- Power:
- Voltage: 115/230V AC, 50-60Hz
- Power Consumption: 44 Wats
- Power Supply: External
- Packing Box:
- Dimensions: 70cm x 50cm x 30cm
- Shipping Weight: 9kg
- Others:
- Tube Set: Standard (6N1P-EW or 6N3P-EW), Optional (6BC8, 5670, 6386)
IGS Tubecore 3U Mastering Compressor Includes
- IGS Tubecore 3U Mastering Compressor
- Power Supply
- User Manual
- Manufacturer Warranty