Unraveling Golden Age Project Comp-3a Jr: From Full Specifications To Potential Issues

Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr Information

The Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a single-channel compressor/leveler that is designed to emulate the sound of the classic LA-3A compressor. It features a simple, two-knob interface with controls for gain reduction and gain makeup, as well as a 3-position switch for selecting different attack and release times. The Comp-3A Jr also features a hardwire bypass switch, so you can hear the signal without compression.

Introduction

The Comp-3A Jr is a great choice for engineers and musicians who are looking for a vintage-style compressor with a musical sound. It is well-suited for a variety of sources, including vocals, drums, guitars, and bass. The Comp-3A Jr is also relatively affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.

Specifications

• Input: XLR and 6.3mm jack
• Output: XLR and 6.3mm jack
• Power supply: External 24V AC
• Dimensions: 4.75" / 1U
• Weight: 1.3kg

Features

• Discrete signal path using only transistors, resistors, capacitors, and diodes
• Transformer-balanced input and output
• 3-position switch for selecting different attack and release times
• Hardwire bypass switch
• 7-digit LED display of gain reduction or output volume

What's in the box

• Comp-3A Jr compressor
• External power supply
• User manual

Table of Specifications

Feature	Spec
Input	XLR and 6.3mm jack
Output	XLR and 6.3mm jack
Power supply	External 24V AC
Dimensions	4.75" / 1U
Weight	1.3kg
Signal path	Discrete
Input and output	Transformer-balanced
Attack and release times	3-position switch
Bypass	Hardwire
Display	7-digit LED

Conclusion

The Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a great choice for engineers and musicians who are looking for a vintage-style compressor with a musical sound. It is well-suited for a variety of sources, including vocals, drums, guitars, and bass. The Comp-3A Jr is also relatively affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.

Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr Compare with Similar Item

a table comparing the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr with some similar compressors:

Feature	Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr	Universal Audio LA-3A	Empirical Labs Distressor
Price	$299	$1,499	$1,199
Size	1U	1U	1U
Weight	2.2 lbs	3.3 lbs	3.3 lbs
Controls	Gain Reduction, Gain Makeup, Time, High-Pass Filter	Gain Reduction, Gain Makeup, Attack, Release, Contour	Gain Reduction, Gain Makeup, Attack, Release, Knee, Ratio, Mix
Sound	Smooth, transparent, versatile	Warm, smooth, musical	Punchy, aggressive, versatile
Applications	Vocals, drums, guitars, bass	Vocals, drums, guitars, bass	Vocals, drums, guitars, bass
Pros	Affordable, versatile, easy to use	Warm, smooth sound, classic design	Punchy, versatile sound, built-in distortion
Cons	Limited controls, fixed high-pass filter	Expensive, not as versatile as some other compressors	Not as transparent as some other compressors

As you can see, the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a more affordable option than the Universal Audio LA-3A and the Empirical Labs Distressor. It also has fewer controls, but this can be seen as a benefit for some users, as it makes the compressor easier to use. The Comp-3A Jr has a smooth, transparent sound that makes it versatile for a variety of applications.

The Universal Audio LA-3A is a classic compressor that is known for its warm, smooth sound. It is more expensive than the Comp-3A Jr, but it is also more versatile, with more controls and a built-in distortion circuit.

The Empirical Labs Distressor is a more aggressive compressor that is known for its punchy sound. It is also more versatile than the Comp-3A Jr, with more controls and a variety of different modes.

Ultimately, the best compressor for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for an affordable, versatile compressor with a smooth, transparent sound, then the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a great option. If you are looking for a classic compressor with a warm, smooth sound, then the Universal Audio LA-3A is a great choice. And if you are looking for an aggressive compressor with a punchy sound, then the Empirical Labs Distressor is a great option.

Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr Pros/Cons and My Thought

The Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a single-channel compressor that is designed to emulate the sound of classic 1960s and 1970s compressors. It features a simple, yet effective control set, with just two main controls for gain reduction and gain makeup, as well as a three-position switch for selecting different attack and release times. The Comp-3A Jr also features a transformer-balanced input and output, as well as a 7-segment LED display that shows the amount of gain reduction or output level.

Pros:

• The Comp-3A Jr is a very affordable compressor, making it a great option for budget-minded producers and engineers.
• The compressor's simple control set makes it easy to use, even for beginners.
• The Comp-3A Jr provides a warm, vintage sound that is perfect for adding character to vocals, drums, and other instruments.
• The compressor's transformer-balanced input and output ensure that it will sound great with both balanced and unbalanced sources.

Cons:

• The Comp-3A Jr does not have any sidechain inputs, so it cannot be used to duck other instruments in the mix.
• The compressor's attack and release times are fixed, so you cannot fine-tune them to your exact liking.
• The Comp-3A Jr is not as versatile as some other compressors on the market.

User Reviews:

• Positive: "I love the sound of this compressor! It's so warm and vintage, and it really adds character to my vocals. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great-sounding compressor on a budget."
• Negative: "I wish the Comp-3A Jr had sidechain inputs. I would also like to be able to fine-tune the attack and release times. Otherwise, I really like this compressor."

My Thoughts:

Overall, I think the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a great compressor for the price. It's easy to use, sounds great, and is built well. If you're looking for a vintage-sounding compressor that won't break the bank, I highly recommend it.

Here are some additional thoughts on the Comp-3A Jr:

• The compressor's simple control set makes it easy to dial in the perfect amount of compression. However, some users may find the lack of sidechain inputs and adjustable attack and release times to be limiting.
• The Comp-3A Jr sounds great on a variety of sources, including vocals, drums, and guitars. It's especially good at adding warmth and character to vocals.
• The compressor is built well and should last for many years. It's also very affordable, making it a great option for budget-minded producers and engineers.

If you're looking for a simple, affordable, and effective compressor that sounds great, I highly recommend the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr.

Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr Problems and Solutions

The Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr is a well-made compressor, but like any electronic device, it can experience problems. Here are some common issues and solutions:

• The unit is not turning on.
  • Check the power supply. Make sure that it is plugged in and that the fuse is not blown.
  • If the power supply is working properly, then the unit may be defective. Contact the reseller where you bought the unit for warranty repair.
• The unit is making a humming noise.
  • This is most likely caused by a ground loop. To fix this, try plugging the unit into a different outlet. If that doesn't work, you can try using a ground loop isolator.
• The unit is not compressing the signal.
  • Make sure that the input and output levels are set correctly. The input level should be high enough to activate the compressor, but not so high that it clips.
  • You may also need to adjust the threshold and ratio controls.
• The unit is distorting the signal.
  • This is most likely caused by the input level being too high. Reduce the input level until the distortion goes away.
  • You may also need to adjust the threshold and ratio controls.

In addition to these common issues, there are a few other potential problems that can occur with the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr. If you are experiencing any other problems, you can consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr:

• Try different settings. The best way to find the right settings for your compressor is to experiment. Try different settings for the threshold, ratio, attack, and release times.
• Listen carefully. The best way to judge the performance of your compressor is to listen carefully. Pay attention to how the compressor affects the dynamics of the signal.
• Use a reference track. If you are unsure about the settings of your compressor, you can use a reference track to compare your sound to.

With a little care and attention, you can get the Golden Age Project Comp-3A Jr to sound great on your tracks.