5
function is determined using the two-position switch below the GAIN knob to the left of the meter. When OUT-
PUT is selected, a meter reading of 0 corresponds to an output level of +4 dBm at the LA-3A output. In the GR
mode the meter will move from 0 to negative numbers on the left side. The meter will indicate relative levels of
gain reduction during loud signal passages. Typically, the PEAK REDUCTION control is adjusted to read be-
tween -3 and -5 on the meter. However, turning the PEAK REDUCTION knob to higher numbers will yield an even
greater magnitude of gain reduction, such as -10 or more. Trust your ears!
Meter Calibration
The 0dB gain reduction reading may need to be calibrated using the GR zero set pot and a very small slotted
screwdriver. The GR zero set pot is located through a small hole on the front panel just above the P of the word
POWER by the POWER ON switch. See front panel drawing on page 3.
1. Turn the LA-3A on and warm up for 5 minutes.
2. Set the meter switch to the GR position.
3. With the PEAK REDUCTION control full off (CCW) adjust the GR zero set trim pot so the meter
reads 0 dB. Turn pot slowly.
LA-3A REAR CHASSIS
SERIAL
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On the left: AC Power transformer, FUSE holder, 115V / 230V switch and standard IEC AC power recep-
tacle.
In the middle: LIMIT / COMPRESS switch, MOD switch, 50/30dB GAIN switch, STEREO ADJ control and HF
CONTOUR control.
On the right: the LA-3A LINE INPUT, and LINE OUTPUT XLR connectors and terminal strip screw connectors
for hard-wired installations. These controls and connectors are discussed in the following
section.
Limit/Compress Switch
The Limit/Compress Switch changes the characteristics of the compressor I/O curve. When in the COMPRESS
position, the curve is gentler, and presents a low compression ratio. A higher compression ratio results when
the switch is set to the LIMIT position. The difference in these two modes is only present when the LA-3A is in
deep compression. Most users leave the LA-3A in COMPRESS mode.
