GAINLAB DICTATOR,GLA-TC1, Dual Pentode Vari-µ Compressor, Graphite L

The Dictator is a tube-based dynamic controller designed along the lines of a classic vari-mu compressor. Theoretically similar to the legendary Fairchild 670 and Gates STA-Level in addition to contemporary solutions for better sound control. We simply call the custom design of the branches the “mu-follower.” The two channels of the compressor can operate in sync across the entire range of the transition curve, achieving excellent gain reduction. The time-dependent operating parameters and saturation characteristics are very familiar to well-known tube-based compressors.

The gainlab Dictator is a true vari-mu compressor consisting of a pair of pentodes that were mass-produced in exceptional quality during the Warsaw Pact in countries such as Hungary, East Germany or Poland. The surrounding circuits of the tube amplifier utilize the latest engineering solutions that allow for the most accurate parallel channel operating characteristics, helping to achieve extreme set-up conditions. For example, it can pulse on a master bus or it can produce crispy saturation in addition to never-existent transients and dirty breaks. Or work as a simple saturator with minimal dynamic control. Our intention was to create a master compressor and bus compressor for mixing, but in experienced hands the Dictator can also be used as a sound design tool. The Dictator controls every aspect of sound, he is precise but not always pure, just like all the dictators in the history books.

Session Recall

Use your Gainlab Audio equipment with Session Recall software! We include a free device definition code for each of our products.
Session Recall is an application designed to save the settings of analog devices without memory. Allows you to store complete configurations of one or more devices in sessions that you can recall at any time. Whether you are a musician, composer or sound engineer, Session Recall integrates flawlessly into your workflow and saves you precious time.

Key features

• True double pentode tube design
• Modern design with side chain
• Modern line driver
• Military-grade vacuum tubes (6k4p-EV (6К4П-EB) long-life pentode)
• Permalloy transformers

Gainlab Dictator specifications

• INPUT: 2 x Balanced XLR
• OUTPUT: 2 x Balanced XLR
• max. Input: +22dBu
• input impedance: >10Kohm
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20Khz +/- 1dB
• Size: 483x280x89
• Weight: 4.2 Kg
  Mains: 230V AC (EU), 110V AC (US)
  Max. Output: >26dBu
  Output impedance: <65ohm
  THD+N (0dBu): <0.3%