Avalon AD2044

Sonic Excellence
The Avalon AD2044 Pure Class A opto-compressor is the most transparent, low noise optical-compressor available today. Designed to optimize absolute signal integrity and musical performance, the AD2044 combines advanced electronics with sonic excellence unequaled by lesser designs. The AD2044 is the perfect solution for two buss music-program compression, mono bass and instruments and  mastering applications.

Features include state-of-the-art, balanced 100% discrete, Pure Class A signal amplifiers, practical "real-world" user features and rugged hardware designed to deliver true high performance audio for many years.

Linear Optical Compression
Custom manufactured, high speed linear opto elements provide the non invasive passive attenuator system for invisible gain reduction. The AD2044 incorporates a unique external control loop and current monitored optical driver for smooth control plus the benefits of traditional vintage LDR compression.

Minimal Signal Path Design
Avalon's advanced true symmetry design offers high-voltage, large headroom, extended bandwidth and very low noise. The use of 100% discrete, Pure Class A signal amplifiers offer the serious music professional unlimited sonic character and a natural harmonic detail that enhances the program material and becomes one with the music itself.

The AD2044 can be found in the world's leading recording studio's, mastering facilities and artist/producers outboard racks. These professionals rely on the AD2044 daily to help them complete their "sonic signature" and turn recordings into musical masterpieces.

Avalon AD2044 Features :

• World-class compression for vocals, instruments and mastering
• Incredible transparency and low noise from "invisible" opto circuits
• Optimum performance from 100% Class A circuitry
• Minimal signal path with no VCAs maintains signal quality
• 100% discrete, pure class A circuitry
• Invisible optical control elements
• Transparent, minimal signal path
• Very low noise: -94dB
• Balanced DC inputs and outputs
• Hard-wired relay bypass
• High headroom: +30dB output
• No VCA or IC amplifiers
• Quality analog VU meter
• Sidechain input for spectral limiting
• Variable attack, release, ratio & threshold
• Peak LEDs for gain-reduction presence

• Circuit topology High-voltage 100% discrete, balanced and symmetrical Class A
  
• Output Gain Range Variable -10dB to +10dB, center detent 0dB
  
• Maximum Input Level +30dB balanced XLR pin 2 hot
  
• Maximum Output Level +32dB balanced 600 ohms, DC coupled, high-current discrete Class A
  
• Input / Output Type XLR type, pin 2 hot balanced
  
• Noise 20kHz Unweighted -94dB (compressor in)
  
• Distortion THD, IMD 0.5% (typical 0.05% at +6dB 1kHz)
  
• Frequency Response -3dB 1Hz to 450kHz (input band limited)
  
• Gain Reduction Meter Illuminated gain reduction meter 0dB to -20dB range
  
• Output Meter Professional moving coil type -20dB to +3dB  (0VU=+4dB)
  
• Compressor Type Optical passive attenuator
  
• Bypass Hard-wire relay bypass for compressor in-out
  
• Link Switch Large illuminated push switch for stereo L-R linking
  
• Make Up Gain Variable 20dB range (-10dB to +10dB)
  
• Threshold Threshold variable -24dB to +20dB
  
• Ratio Ratio-compression variable 1:1 to 20:1
  
• Attack Variable 0.5mS to 150mS
  
• Release  Variable 80mS to 5 seconds for 12dB release
  
• Side-Chain XLR type, pin 2 hot balanced (switch/relay selectable from front panel)
  
• AC-DC Power External AC supply, 150w toroidal transformer, 4 pin cable 90v isolated,
  
• (B2T Power Supply Included) 100-240v selectable 50/60Hz, 150w max
  
• Dimensions 19 x 3.5 x 12 in (482 x 88 x 305mm)
  
• Shipping Weight 30lbs (13.6 kg)