IGS Audio Tubecore 3U Variable-Mu Mastering Compressor

IGS Audio Tubecore 3U Variable-Mu Mastering Compressor

The IGS Audio 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.

The Tubecore 3U 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 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.

Specifications

Basic Features

•  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