DLA-2A: Leveling Amplifier

DLA-2A: Leveling Amplifier
A Studio Legend at Your Feet

The Doc Lloyd DLA-2A Leveling Amplifier is a meticulous recreation of an iconic studio compressor, now directly compatible with guitar and bass input signals. Less than 25% the size and cost of the original with 100% authentic tone. It took multiple years of dedication to make this ambitious goal a reality, but finally it is here.

The design includes Lundahl input/output transformers, 12AX7/12BH7 tubes, and a Kenetek T4B optical attenuator module. These components are expensive, but absolutely necessary to replicate this classic compressor's unsurpassed audio qualities. Two sidechain tubes are replaced with high voltage solid-state circuitry to significantly reduce size while leaving the original audio path fully intact. The line audio path is a precise match of the original schematic with a custom 275VDC low-noise internal power supply providing high voltage to the audio circuitry from a standard 12VDC input. This machine is the real deal. 

Typical studio compressors require line level signals from low impedance sources. The DLA-2A has the standard transformer balanced line input as well as a high impedance input with a balanced gain stage, providing direct compatibility with guitar and bass.

The compressed output signal is passed to a transformer balanced line output that can be connected to a mixing console or headphones as well as an instrument level output that can be connected to a pedalboard or amplifier.

DC power is applied to the tube heater filaments and does not generate 60 Hz hum, resulting in lower noise than the classic reference design.

COMPONENTS

• Lundahl 1922 Input Transformer
• Lundahl 5402 Output Transformer
• Kenetek T4B Classic Optical Attenuator Module
• Tung-Sol 12AX7 Vacuum Tube
• JJ 12BH7-A Vacuum Tube
• Calibrated VU Meter with Backlight
• Vishay Beyschlag Thin Film Professional Resistors
• Non-piezoelectric Class 1 Ceramic and Film Capacitors
• Daka-Ware Bakelite Knobs
  
  

ACCESSORIES

• AC/DC Power Adapter 
• Input and Output XLR Adapters
  
• Inline Power Switch
  
  

CIRCUIT BLOCK DIAGRAM

TECHNICAL DETAILS

VIDEOS