WesAudio RHEA Stereo Vari-Mu Tube Compressor with Digital Recall

WesAudio RHEA Stereo Vari-Mu Tube Compressor with Digital Recall

Fully analog, stereo vari-mu tube compressor with digital recall.

As the digital footprint became a core part of the modern era, the demand for analog warmth grew stronger than ever. Few designs offer more musical and rich-sounding compression than the vari-mu. Now, the ng500 series introduces RHEA-the most refined of them all, where vintage meets modern, quite literally.

Despite its digital control features, RHEA is a fully analog unit. The audio signal is processed exclusively through analog components, preserving the rich, warm sound that only analog circuitry can deliver.

Analog Sound, Digital Control

Regardless of its digital control features, RHEA is a fully analog unit.

True Tube Compression

RHEA is a true tube compressor, where gain reduction is directly achieved through a tube circuit. As a classic vari-mu design, it operates with feed-backward compression, renowned for delivering exceptionally musical and smooth compression results.

Interstage Transformers

To properly integrate tubes into modern audio levels, transformers play a key role just before the signal reaches the tubes, enhancing the process. This not only helps smooth the signal but also accentuates the low end, giving it a fuller, more pronounced sound.

Mix Knob for Parallel Compression

With the MIX knob, achieving parallel compression has never been easier!

With RHEA, you can automate your MIX settings directly in your DAW. Ever wanted to push your compressor harder during the chorus? It’s simple-just record automation using the touch-sensitive encoder or draw your automation lines right in your DAW for precise control.

THD – Add Color to Your Mixes

THD, or Total Harmonic Distortion, enhances your signal by introducing analog saturation, adding rich harmonic warmth and depth. This saturation lends a pleasing vintage color to the sound, making it feel fuller and more musical, perfect for adding character and texture to your audio.

Sidechain Filters

RHEA sidechain filter functionality allows modification of the signal going into the compressor’s detector.

It includes three high-pass filters at 60Hz, 90Hz, and 150Hz.

Compatible with 500 Series and ng500 Series

Despite its advanced features, RHEA remains fully compatible with the standard 500 series*. Its digital functionalities can be accessed via the mini USB socket on the front panel.

The ng500 (Next Generation 500 series) extends the capabilities of the traditional 500 series, making RHEA fully compatible with the TITAN frame. This allows control of all devices in the chassis using a single USB or Ethernet cable.

Hardware A/B

Even when using RHEA as a purely analog signal processor, you can easily switch between two parallel settings with the simple press of a button, offering seamless transitions and flexibility in sound processing.

Total Recall and Plugin Control

Along with the classic analog compression, RHEA offers one of the most highly requested features in the audio industry – TOTAL RECALL.

Complete plugin control via VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and AAX DSP ensures RHEA is compatible with nearly all major DAWs, providing seamless integration.

This total DAW integration will revolutionize your workflow, allowing for smooth recall of settings and effortless control within your digital environment.

Analog Automation

We’ve all wanted to adjust device settings for different sections of a song, and now it’s possible! Simply draw automation lines in your DAW, and your analog device will follow seamlessly.

Additionally, you can use the four touch-sensitive encoders to record automation directly to your DAW, making it even easier to adjust and fine-tune settings on the fly.

Main Features:

• 100% analog device with +24dBu of headroom.
• True stereo tube vari-mu compressor for rich, warm compression.
• High voltage tube operation for optimal performance.
• Interstage CARNHILL transformers for enhanced signal quality.
• Input and output level controls for maximum flexibility in signal management.
• Mix knob for easy parallel compression.
• THD control with two modes: Medium and High, for harmonic distortion.
• Sidechain filters with 3 high-pass filter options: 60Hz, 90Hz, and 150Hz.
• Compatible with 500 series and ng500 series (e.g., _TITAN).
• Total Recall and plugin control, compatible with most DAWs.
• Supports analog automation within DAWs for seamless integration.

Other Features:

• Fully digitally controlled yet isolated analog circuit for seamless integration.
• Digital recall can be achieved by connecting the unit via the front panel mini USB socket or through the _TITAN chassis.
• 4 touch-sensitive encoders allow automation recording of specific parameters (Threshold, Mix, Input, Output) in DAW.
• True bypass ensures signal integrity.
• Accurate analog gain reduction (GR) meter with precise simulation in the plugin.
• Free software and firmware upgrades.

To learn more about Wesaudio, Click Here

Brand	WesAudio
Condition	New

• Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 150 kHz (-3 dB)
• THD+N:< 0.03% (1 kHz, 0 dBu): No compression
• THD+N: > 1%: At maximum compression level
• Input Impedance: 20 kohm
• Output Impedance: < 100 ohm
• Max Signal Level: +24 dBu
• Crosstalk: < -80 dB
• THD (MID switch): 1%
• THD (HIGH switch): 3%
• Attack: 0.5, 1, 3, 10, 30, 50 ms
• Release: 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.8, 3.6 s
• SC Filter: 60 Hz, 90 Hz, 150 Hz
• Power Consumption: 190 mA per rail
• Dimensions: 76 x 133 x 158 mm
• Unit Weight: 0.95 kg
• Warranty: 2 years