The Golden Age Audio COMP-3A Jr is a one-channel vintage style compressor/leveler designed to deliver classic optical compression at an affordable price. Built with fully discrete components such as resistors, capacitors, diodes, and transistors, it avoids integrated circuits in the audio path to maintain an authentic analogue character.
With transformer balanced input and output stages, each optimised for their role, the Golden Age Audio COMP-3A Jr provides the warmth and musicality associated with vintage designs while still driving balanced or unbalanced loads with ease. Its integrated optocoupler controls gain with fast, program dependent response, offering smooth and natural compression that enhances both instruments and vocals.
The Golden Age Audio COMP-3A Jr is designed for simplicity and flexibility, featuring just two main controls—Gain Makeup and Gain Reduction—along with a three-position TIME switch for different attack and release combinations. Internal jumpers allow further adjustment of timing behaviour, making it adaptable to a wide range of sources.
A hardwire bypass switch provides instant comparisons, while XLR, TRS, and stereo link connectivity ensure versatility in modern studio setups. With an external power supply to minimise interference, all front-panel controls, and a compact 1RU quarter rack format, up to four units can be mounted in a 19-inch rack with the UNITE MKII kit.
Solidly built and easy to use, the Golden Age Audio COMP-3A Jr delivers vintage compression style and tone in a streamlined, space-saving design.
Features
- Vintage style electronics with no integrated circuits in the main audio path
- Transformer balanced input and output, capable of driving balanced or unbalanced loads
- Integrated optocoupler for gain control with program dependent response
- Fastest attack time of about 1 ms
- Simple operation with Gain Makeup and Gain Reduction controls
- Three-position TIME switch for selecting attack and release combinations
- Internal jumpers for adjusting timing on TIME-switch positions B and C
- Hardwire bypass switch for quick comparisons
- XLR and TRS input and output connections
- Link jack for stereo operation with another unit
- All external controls located on the front panel
- External power supply to prevent interference with audio circuits and transformers
- Compact 1RU quarter rack format, mountable up to four units in a 19-inch rack with the UNITE MKII kit
- Durable build quality designed for years of reliable use