THIS IS GONNA MAKE SOME PEOPLE ANGRY!!! - KLARK TEKNIK KT-2A

Summary

In this video, the Clark Technic KT2A compressor is reviewed as a budget alternative to the renowned Teletronics LA2A. Despite its lower price point, the KT2A offers a surprisingly close emulation, featuring three tubes for its distinct sound. The reviewer, having used the original LA2A extensively, argues that the KT2A's performance in blind tests would be indistinguishable from the original. The video also touches on the debate over virtual alternatives and the value of analog hardware, concluding that the KT2A is a worthy, affordable option for those seeking the classic LA2A sound on vocals.

Takeaways

• 🎛️ The KT2A from Clark Technic is a clone of the iconic Teletronix LA-2A compressor, which is renowned for its warm, analog vocal compression.
• 💰 The KT2A is priced at around £300, making it significantly more affordable than the original LA-2A, which costs around £3,500.
• 🔧 While the KT2A is much cheaper, it compromises on build quality with more budget-friendly components, though it still includes three tubes that contribute to its sound.
• 🎙️ The KT2A is primarily used for vocals, providing a similar tonal character to the original LA-2A, which is known for its signature warmth.
• 🛠️ The controls on the KT2A are minimal, featuring only output gain, peak reduction, and a pre-emphasis control that adjusts the side chain’s response to high frequencies.
• 💻 There are various plugin alternatives to the LA-2A, with Universal Audio offering one of the most popular, though they come at a higher cost and often require dedicated hardware or subscriptions.
• 🎧 The reviewer argues that the sound difference between the KT2A and the original LA-2A is minimal and likely indistinguishable in a blind test, especially since no two LA-2As sound exactly alike.
• 📈 The KT2A has held up well over four years of use, demonstrating reasonable durability despite its budget build quality.
• 🔊 The KT2A maintains some of the analog ‘noise’ characteristic of vintage hardware, which can add to its charm for those seeking an authentic analog sound.
• 👍 Overall, the reviewer believes the KT2A offers excellent value for those familiar with the LA-2A’s sound, providing a close approximation at a fraction of the cost.

Q & A

What is the Clark Technic KT2A?

The Clark Technic KT2A is a hardware compressor that is a version or clone of the famous Teletronics LA2A, known for its use of valves and opto-compressor design.

What is the LA2A known for in the audio industry?

The LA2A is renowned as one of the most famous vocal compressors, appreciated for its ability to bring out 'magic' in audio recordings, and has been in use since the 1960s.

Who owns Clark Technic?

Clark Technic was bought by Music Group, which also owns other well-known brands in the audio industry.

How does the price of the Clark Technic KT2A compare to the original LA2A?

The Clark Technic KT2A is significantly more affordable, priced at around 300 pounds, compared to the original LA2A which costs much more.

What are the main differences between the Clark Technic KT2A and the original LA2A?

While the KT2A uses three tubes to achieve its sound, the rest of its components are not of the same quality as the original LA2A, and it is not hand-built like the LA2A.

What is the build quality of the Clark Technic KT2A?

The build quality of the KT2A is solid, with nice knobs and decent sockets, and it has proven to be durable over several years of use.

What are the main controls on the Clark Technic KT2A?

The KT2A has basic controls including output gain, peak reduction, and a pre-emphasis control that is adjusted with a screwdriver rather than a knob.

How does the Clark Technic KT2A perform on vocals?

The KT2A is praised for its performance on vocals, bringing a similar 'magic' to recordings as the LA2A, despite being a more affordable alternative.

What are some virtual alternatives to the Clark Technic KT2A?

There are several virtual alternatives, including those made by Universal Audio, which require either their hardware or a subscription for their native plugins.

What was the outcome of the online argument regarding the Clark Technic KT2A's sound quality?

The argument concluded that the KT2A is very close in sound to the LA2A, and that it would be challenging to differentiate between the two in a blind test.

What is the reviewer's stance on the value of the Clark Technic KT2A compared to the LA2A?

The reviewer believes the KT2A offers great value for its price, especially for those who appreciate the sound of the LA2A but are looking for a more affordable option.