The Klark Teknik KT-2A Compressor is a one-channel hardware Classic Leveling Amplifier with Vacuum Tubes, Optical Attenuator and Midas Transformers, based on the iconic Teletronix LA-2A.
The original is a tube-based optical compressor that reacts in a nonlinear and musical way to input signal, smoothing out peaks in a largely subtle manner suitable for vocals, acoustic guitars, and other acoustic instruments. The Klark Teknik version draws inspiration from the original, using the same electroluminescent cell and high-quality, discrete components.
A full complement of tubes is utilized in the KT-2A, including 12AX7s, EL84s, and a 12BH7. The pleasant harmonic distortion from these tubes lends warmth to the low end and a silky smoothness to the upper registers. One differentiation over the original is the inclusion of Midas input and output transformers, which are respected for their fidelity in both recording and live situations.
Controls on the unit include an output gain knob, a gain reduction knob, a limit/compress switch, and a pre-emphasis trimmer that affects the frequencies of the compressor's sidechain path. This trimmer makes the compressor less susceptible to higher frequencies, so gain-reduction isn't as reactive to the treble range. No attack and control variables are provided, as is the style with LA-2A emulations. Retro-style VU meters adorn the unit, giving you the ability to monitor gain reduction and various levels of output.
The signal path is balanced, and both XLR and 1/4" phone jacks are provided on the input and output. However, you can use this compressor with unbalanced cables as well. A stereo-linking TRS jack provides the ability to link two KT-2As for stereo processing.
Klark Teknik KT-2A Compressor Features
- Single Channel
- Smooth, Musical Compression
- Based on Classic LA-2A Design
- Same Electroluminescent Tech as Original
- Full Tube Complement
- Midas Input and Output Transformers
- Pre-Emphasis Trimmer for Sidechain Path
- Vintage-Style VU Metering
- Balanced Connections & Stereo Link Jack
- Designed and Engineered in the U.K.
Klark Teknik KT-2A Compressor Specifications
- Audio Input
- Type: XLR, 1/4" TRS, transformer balanced
- Impedance: 600 Ω, balanced and unbalanced
- Maximum input level:+20 dBu, balanced and unbalanced
- CMRR at 1 kHz: Typically -80 dB
- Audio Output
- Type: XLR, 1/4" TRS, transformer balanced
- Impedance: 70 Ω, balanced and unbalanced
- Maximum output level: +18 dBu, balanced and unbalanced
- Frequency response: 10 Hz to 20 kHz, ±1 dB
- Noise at unity gain: -87 dBu, unweighted, 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- THD at unity gain 0 dBu Typically <0.1% 20 Hz to 20 kHz: Typically <0.1% 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Mains voltage: 100 - 240 V~, 50/60 Hz
Klark Teknik KT-2A Compressor Includes
- Klark Teknik KT-2A Compressor
- IEC Power Cable
- User Manual
- Manufacturer Warranty
3 Reviews Hide Reviews Show Reviews
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KT2A and FRONT END AUDIO
Oct 11th 2020I tried another comp but it wasnt what I was looking for. Front End Audio took it back and sent me this KT-2A and it was exactly what I wanted! It has that old school, soft tube sound as if going through a vintage board or mic...or Tube Compressor. Ive had it a month or more and waited to write the review and it is 100% quality and the "smooth" compressor/limiter for tracking here.
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So far so good
Sep 5th 2020Only using it for about a week and like it a lot. Still learning what it's capable of. Obviously this is one of those 'best bang for the buck' products as other reviews have noted. Front End Audio had the best price on this as well. Build quality is excellent and the unit arrived on time - double boxed. A solid purchase!
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KT-2A
Dec 18th 2018I love this compressor! Great on vocals. Smooth and much less of the messy artifacts on the top end than is often created with moderate levels of compression. i swapped this out for a compressor that cost quite a bit more and it sounds better. Definitely recommended.
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