The UREI LA-22 Compressor Limiter is a dual channel dynamics processor designed to combine professional compression and limiting with advanced frequency selective control. Built as a highly configurable unit, the UREI LA-22 extends the functionality of a conventional compressor limiter by integrating a fully parametric equaliser into the control path, allowing both wide band and narrow band dynamic processing. This design enables precise control over specific areas of the audio spectrum while leaving the remainder of the signal unaffected, making the UREI LA-22 suitable for corrective, creative, and problem solving applications in professional recording, broadcast, and post production environments.
At the core of the UREI LA-22 is its ability to operate in either wide band or narrow band modes. In wide band operation, all frequencies are treated equally, providing traditional compression or limiting behaviour. In narrow band mode, the built in parametric equaliser allows the user to select a specific frequency range and bandwidth to be dynamically processed, effectively creating dynamic equalisation. The equaliser frequency and Q are adjustable from the front panel, and the equaliser signal feeding the VCA and side chain can be monitored through the output stage. This approach allows targeted control of problem frequencies such as sibilance or plosives, while preserving the overall tonal balance of the programme material.
The UREI LA-22 also supports a frequency dependent side chain configuration via rear panel barrier strip connections. In this mode, the output of the parametric equaliser feeds the side chain while the full frequency signal passes through the VCA. This allows a selected frequency range to control compression or limiting applied to the entire signal, enabling sophisticated de-essing, de-popping, and frequency conscious dynamics processing. Each channel can independently be configured to operate as a compressor or an expander, with an equal amount of gain change selectable for either function. In narrow band mode, only the selected frequency band is affected, while wide band operation applies processing evenly across the spectrum.
A Smart Slope circuit provides a smooth transition between no compression and full compression or limiting, delivering a more natural and musical response. Each channel includes controls for threshold, detector mode selection between average and peak, attack, release, ratio, and output level. The ratio control also offers an auto mode that engages fixed settings for detector type, attack, and ratio, along with a programme dependent release function. A separate output ceiling peak limiter with an adjustable threshold is included, with LED indication to show limiter activity. LED bargraph meters display input or output level as well as gain change, and a momentary monitor side chain switch allows the side chain signal to be auditioned at the output.
Connectivity on the UREI LA-22 includes electronically balanced XLR and terminal strip inputs, along with balanced, active transformer isolated outputs. Rear panel barrier strips allow flexible routing of signals to the side chain, optional separation of signal and chassis grounds, and linking of control circuits with other compatible UREI compressors. A front panel switch links the channels for stereo operation.
A hardwire bypass relay ensures that the input is directly connected to the output in the event of power loss, maintaining signal continuity. Internally, balanced differential input circuits reduce noise, while a toroidal power transformer minimises AC hum radiation. The unit is housed in a standard 1U EIA 19 inch rackmount chassis, with an optional security cover available to protect front panel settings.
Features
- Dual channel compressor limiter with independent or stereo linked operation
- Wide band and narrow band dynamics processing modes
- Integrated parametric equaliser for frequency selective control
- Frequency dependent side chain operation via rear panel routing
- Selectable compression or expansion on each channel
- Smart Slope circuit for smooth compression transitions
- Average and peak detector modes with auto programme dependent operation
- Output ceiling peak limiter with LED indication
- LED bargraph metering for level and gain reduction
- Balanced inputs and active transformer isolated outputs
- Hardwire relay bypass for signal integrity during power loss