SA 3A-5

Stam Audio 3A-5 Opto Compressor

The 3A-5 is a 1:1 replica of the 2 most popular solid state optical compressors in the world, the UREI LA-3A and the UREI LA-4.

Using custom wound US made transformers, the absolute best T4B in the market by Kenetek Pro Audio in the US and a Carnhill output transformer, we can confidently say this is the most accurate sounding  vintage LA-3A and LA-4 compressor on the market.

Since they share the same transformers and we had a little space left we decided to give you 2 compressors for the price of one and manage to include the revered LA-4 compressors into the same unit.

Each 3A-5 is hand built at our lab in Chile one by one with the highest quality components available. No shortcuts have been taken to ensure you can use them interchangeably with an old LA-3A or LA-4. The 3A-5 includes the famous Clearmount Mod which lowers the noise-floor of the unit for quieter operation.

Bringing back two classic compressors

The LA-3A quickly became the industry standard and most popular solid state optical compressor which has been used for over half a century in the best recording studios around the world. It’s unique coloration and character and its beautiful compression curve has made it the number one to go compressor for loud vocals and electric guitars. The LA-4, a Vactrol based optical compressor became famous for its transparency for acoustic instruments.

The best T4B in the market

Being the single most important part on a LA-2A and LA-3A and having tested every single T4B under the sun (including our own!!) we always come back to Bill Jone’s US hand-made T4B. It is simply identical to the original T4B from the 70’s U.S.

Custom made transformers

Every 3A-5 comes with custom wound transformers made in the U.S. which are an exact replica of the originals. These transformers are built in small batches specifically for Stam Audio in the USA and have the same color, ratio and frequency response of the now extinct and unobtainable original B11147 input transformer.

100% satisfaction guarantee – if you don’t love your SA-3A-5, we’ll refund you

We’re extremely confident the SA- 3A-5 is will put a big smile on your face every time you use it. However if you’ve never touched the original before, as gear lovers ourselves we understand that the only way to really know if this compressor is for you, is to put it through its paces. That’s why the SA-3A-5 is comes with a 30 day money back guarantee. This allows you to get it into your rack and see how it impacts your recordings. If you love it (and we think you will!), great…keep the unit and create amazing music with it. If not, no problems. Just send it back to us and we’ll fully refund your purchase. And don’t worry, either way you decide to go we will remain friends.