Acme Audio Opticom XLA500

Acme Audio Opticom XLA500 moves the XLA-3 limiter topology into a two-slot 500 series module. The circuit stays tube-based and optical, with the triple optoelectronic detector and Cinemag transformers on both input and output.

Three response speeds in one module

Slow mode behaves like a classic opto: a gentle attack onset passes the initial transient, so a snare keeps its hit while its level is being controlled. Fast clamps down far harder and covers ground where a FET compressor would normally be the answer. Normal sits between the two and handles most vocals on its own.

Clean to dirty without changing units

A class A gain stage and Cinemag transformers add saturation progressively as input level rises. In practice one module covers gentle vocal control, added weight on bass, and a heavily crushed drum track, without reaching for a second piece of hardware. The module occupies two slots in a 500 series rack.

KEY FEATURES

• XLA-3 limiter topology in 500 series format
• Triple optoelectronic circuit combining three compression curves
• Normal, Fast and Slow modes
• Class A gain stage
• Cinemag input and output transformers
• Tonal range from clean to saturated
• Occupies two 500 series slots

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: tube optical limiter
• Format: 500 series module, two slots
• Detection: triple optoelectronic circuit
• Modes: Normal, Fast, Slow
• Gain stage: class A
• Input transformer: Cinemag
• Output transformer: Cinemag
• Channels: 1
• Power: from the 500 series rack