A Classic Tube Microphone Preamp & LA-2A-Style Compressor in a Single Unit
The LA-610 MkII combines an all-tube, vintage mic preamp design — heard on classic albums ranging from The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds to Van Halen I — with authentic Teletronix T4 opto-compression circuitry. This classic channel strip design, with its warm preamp tone and smooth, natural-sounding compression, is updated with modern, user-requested features like true compressor bypass, larger metering, increased output, and an auto-switching power supply.
The LA-610 MkII also boasts much lower noise specs versus vintage models. Elegant and highly popular “Black on Black” cosmetics complete the package. For the serious project studio looking to get the UA sonic experience, the LA-610 MkII offers tone, quality and character at an accessible price.
- All-tube mic preamp design derived from legendary Bill Putnam-designed 610 modular console
- Authentic Teletronix LA-2A-style T4 opto-compressor section
- Complete vintage channel strip at groundbreaking price within project studio reach
- UA build quality and heritage, audiophile components, hand-assembled in-house
The LA-610 MkII is based on the legendary console modules developed by Bill Putnam in the 60's. Noted for their musical character and warmth, innumerous classics by artists ranging from Sinatra to Van Halen have been recorded using these preamps. After the preamp section, the LA-610 MkII offers the T4 optical compressor. The simple operation and program-dependent nature of the LA-610 T4 compressor provides the same extremely musical control that has made the LA-2A such a well-loved classic for more than 40 years. The electro-optical detector, or "T4 cell,” is the heart and soul of the Teletronix LA-2A. Its unique combination of electro-luminescent panel and photo-resistors are the crucial circuit components, giving the compressor its signature sound. In use, the LA-610 MkII packs tremendous sonic versatility and is an ideal front-end for tracking with modern DAWs.
Owners of 2-610 and LA-2A, have no fear: The LA-610 does not make your treasured investments obsolete. While the LA-610 incorporates many of the flattering sonic attributes of its predecessors, it has its own uniquely beautiful voice. And don't let the low price ($1,749) fool you — this box belongs in a rack beside the priciest gear. Universal Audio has produced another winner!
while the LA 610 MKII is really great sounding, i prefer the 6176 by quite a bit. both of the 610 preamp sections sound identical (which is awesome and the best i've ever heard), but, for me the 1176LN in the 6176 is ALOT better comp for a bass. the LA-2 type tube opto comp in the LA 610 is alot slower to respond and duller sounding than the FET based 1176LN. it distorts alot easier too (i already knew that it would). its not just that the 1176LN not only responds/tracks better, but it also adds a completely different type of punch and immediacy to the sound that the LA-2 doesn't.
While a tad more expensive than the original LA-610, the LA-610 MK II boasts a new look and some improvement on the inner make up. In my opinion, like the original, this is ideal for the home studio owner looking for a big sounding channel strip to sit at the top of your collection. It does however have the sound of something that a professional would use, making it great for improving the sound of your home studio with a single item. I'd highly recommend the LA-610 MK II for the home studio looking to get your home recordings on a whole new level!
