The Ebony A2 from TL Audio is a dedicated stereo audio processor featuring discrete Class-A circuitry and a switchable tube path for added tonal variation. The unit consists of a comprehensive compressor section and a three band EQ. An output gain control effectively acts like an output fader, and is very useful when recording direct to tape or a hard disc DAW/recorder.
The compressor has continuously variable threshold, ratio and gain make-up, and switched settings for hard or soft knee, and fast or slow attack and release times. In order to preserve the stereo image the compressor is stereo coupled. The equalizer has 3 bands with shelving high frequency and low frequency controls, while the mid-band is a swept, peaking filter. The EQ is fully discrete class A.
Using relays, comprehensive switching allows the Ebony A2 to be configured with the EQ pre or post the compressor, or with the EQ in the side-chain, for de-essing or frequency variable compressor effects. The inputs and outputs are balanced and ground free, although unbalanced operation is supported.
Input
- Stereo audio processor with discrete class-A preamplifier
- Switchable and variable tube circuit for additional coloration
Compressor
- Variable ratio, threshold and gain make up
- Switchable attack, release and knee characteristic
- Gain make-up
EQ
- Three band EQ
- High and low shelving with +/-15dB boost or cut
- Swept mid range with fixed Q and +/-15dB boost or cut
- EQ switchable pre or post compression stage
General
- Phase reverse
- Analog style VU metering displays level or gain reduction
- Output Peak LED for monitoring the output prior to sending to a DAW