• A meticulous model of a one-of-a-kind tube electro-optical compressor
• The compressor of choice for vocals or bass
• Compression ratio varies depending on the input signal
• Average attack time fixed at 10 mS
• Initial release time around 60 mS for 50% of the release, with the rest occurring gradually over 1-15 sec before the signal goes back to 100%
• Release time responds to the length and strength of the source signal – above-threshold signal yields slower release time and vice-versa

With only Gain and Peak Reduction knobs, the Opto-2A is exceedingly simple to control. With a turn of its switch, the compressor becomes a limiter. The key to its unique personality is the T4 optical attenuator, a technology stemming from optical sensors originally developed for the US military. The Opto-2A sonic signature is the two-stage release which greatly contributes to its smooth and musical compression or a warm analog drive when pushed harder.

Despite its simple controls, Opto-2A is infinitely versatile but being designed for broadcast it shines especially bright when applied to vocals due to its incredible musical response to the human voice. Slap this compressor on the monitor chain of a singer or a voice-over artist and you’ll hear its instant impact on their performance. Able to handle and control a wide range of dynamics, Opto-2A is also a great choice for compressing or limiting bass lines.

Opto-2A draws inspiration from a renowned tube-based optical compressor from the 1960s. Built around the distinctive T4 optical cell and known for its smooth, musical response, it delivers effortless and natural level control through a simple set of controls. Its sensitivity to input dynamics has made it a favorite among generations of engineers and producers — heard on vocals from Alanis Morissette, Kurt Cobain, and Jack White to Shakira.

Mac:

• Apple Mac 2015 or newer, with Intel or Apple Silicon processor
• Minimum: Mac OS X 10.14 Mojave (Recommended 11 Big Sur or higher)
• Memory (RAM): 8 GB minimum (16 GB or more recommended)

Windows:

• Windows 10/11 (64-bit) with latest Microsoft Updates
• Memory (RAM): 8 GB minimum (16 GB or more recommended)
• CPU: Minimum Intel Core i3™ or AMD Ryzen 1000 (Higher recommended)

Additional:

• Stable internet connection is required to download and authorise the plugins.
• A free iLok account is required, with iLok Cloud or iLok USB (2^nd gen or higher)
• *A physical iLok dongle is NOT required to activate this product

*The Opto-2A software product is not affiliated with nor has been sponsored or endorsed by any company.

Included versions:

Native Plugin: Runs on your Mac or PC without any additional hardware needed.
Synergy Core Real-Time: Runs in real time with no perceptible latency on compatible Synergy Core devices.