Compressors
Multicore
Tubecore 3U
The Design
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 User's Manual describes in detail how to replace tubes, so it is quick and straightforward.
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.
$ 2890.-
V8 Compressor
The Design
The V8 compressor is built only with discrete components and six Carnhill transformers (three per channel). The element responsible for the compression is the bridge, composed of 4 matched pulse diodes. The device is a dual mono unit with the option of linking the sidechain circuitry. All controls are stepped, for channel matching and recall.
The punch and clarity your mixes are lacking
The V8 compressor is also equipped with a HPF on the sidechain circuitry. This feature allows you to cut the lowest frequencies from the signal, before they hit the compressor stage, and allow a single instrument, such as the kick drum, to go through without the pumping effect. An additional switch on the front (+10THR) lowers the compressor's threshold level by an extra 10dB. This feature is useful when compressing very low signals, or for very strong compression. The typical application for IGS V8 is bus compression. However, due to its nature and the incredible range of tone and color settings, uses of the V8 compressor are unlimited. A must-have unit!
One Leveling Amplifier
The Design
The IGS ONE LA is an optical compressor, inspired by the legendary solution well known from the '60s. This is a very easy to use and great sounding tool.
The IGS ONE LA is an input and output transformer balanced, full tube device. The input of the system includes a Sowter 4383 transformer, the output an Edcor 15k/600. Two 6N1P-EW dual-triodes are installed on the audio circuit, while the compression circuit is equipped with the 6N2P-EW triode and the 6AQ5 pentode, which control the work of the T4Bx photocell.
Controls
The One LA 19" has simple controls: a Peak-Reduction knob controls the gain of the side-chain circuit, and therefore, the gain reduction threshold; Gain Control for the make-up gain; and a Limit/Compress switch to alter the compression ratio. The VU meter may also be switched to show gain reduction or output level.
The T4Bx Optocell
The original solution used the TELETRONIX electroluminescent panel, that was illuminating the photo resistor. The idea of opto-compression originated in the past is still being cultivated today. IGS Audio has developed its own photocell equivalent to T4B called T4BX. The use of carefully selected components in the production of the T4BX photocell, and their individual measurement and matching, result in completely repetitive sound qualities of each device.
Matched pairs are also available. The link socket is located on the rear panel. The RCA-RCA cable is all you need to link two units. Perfect stereo matching is achieved by hand selected tubes and Elma switches.
