IGS Audio Tubecore 3U

The TUBECORE 3U is a fully symmetric transformer balanced stereo mastering compressor. 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 Tubecore 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 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 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 quality Every single 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.

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: 70x50x30 cm

Shipping weight: 9kg

OTHERS:

Tube set Standard: 6N1P-EW or 6N3P-EW, Optional: 6BC8, 5670, 6386