Source Audio SA 252 Atlas Compressor

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Source Audio SA 252 Atlas Compressor

Source Audio

SA 252 Atlas Compressor

4.9 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 543670
Model: SA 252 Atlas Compressor
Price: $251.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The Atlas is a serious compressor pedal, offering a surprising amount of flexibility and character. It's ideal for players wanting detailed control over dynamics, especially bassists who need a dedicated mode, but be prepared to invest some time learning its menu system. This is a great choice for studio work and players who like to tweak and experiment.

Product Description

  • Source Audio SA 252 Atlas Compressor
  • Effect Pedal
  • Compressor
  • Switchable mode for guitar or bass
  • Bass Mode adapts all factory presets for use with an electric bass: adjusted dynamic range and attack characteristics
  • 6 Selectable compressor styles: 2x Optical
  • 1x VCA
  • 1x FET
  • 2x Dual-Band including LA2A Optical Compression for warm
  • smooth compression
  • 1176 Feedback FET Compression - extremely fast attack
  • LED Optical Compressor - similar concept to LA2A
  • but with faster
  • 'dirtier' attack and rackmount VCA-style compression (fast attack with hard knee)
  • Two selectable dual compressor modes can be used either serially
  • in parallel or as a band split
  • Additional compressor types available via the Neuro Editor
  • Direct access to all relevant compressor parameters
  • Auto Makeup Gain automatically increases or decreases the makeup gain
  • depending on the amount of compression applied
  • Look Ahead Compression creates an imperceptible latency in the signal that 'looks ahead' and allows for a particularly fast and smooth attack without additional distortion or artefacts
  • Side Chain Compression uses the signal from Input 2 to trigger the compression of the signal from Input 1
  • 3-Band parametric EQ or 8-band graphic EQ available via Neuro Editor
  • Adjustable noise gate
  • Neuro Desktop Editor or Neuro Mobile App to create
  • save and share presets
  • Full MIDI capabilities with the Source Audio Neuro Hub
  • Controls for threshold
  • ratio (tone)
  • blend (attack)
  • output (release)
  • Preset toggle switch for 6 onboard presets
  • ALT control key activates secondary function of the pots
  • Bypass footswitch
  • Status LEDs
  • Brushed anodised aluminium body
  • Universal bypass - selectable between analogue-buffered or relay-switched true bypass
  • 2 Stereo inputs: 6
  • 3 mm TRS jack
  • 2 Stereo outputs: 6.3 mm TRS jack
  • 1 Mini USB port for connection to PC (Windows and Mac compatible)
  • 1 Control input for controlling up to four parameters with an external expression pedal: 3.5 mm jack
  • Mains adapter connection: Hollow female plug 5.5 x 2.1 mm (negative pole inside)
  • Power supply via 9 V DC mains adapter
  • Power consumption: 165 mA
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) : 114 x 70 x 51 mm
  • Incl. power supply unit

*Note:* Battery operation not supported

*Note:* Register your product at www.w-distribution.de/Warranty and extend the warranty to 4 years.

PROS
  • • Versatile compression styles cover a wide range of tonal needs
  • • Bass mode genuinely adapts settings for low-end clarity
  • • Neuro Editor unlocks a huge depth of customization possibilities
  • • Direct parameter access simplifies dialing in precise compression
CONS
  • • Complex interface can be overwhelming for beginners; steep learning curve
  • • Source Audio's menu diving can be frustrating for quick adjustments
  • • Size is relatively large, taking up significant pedalboard space

Product Video

Key Features

Compressor Type Optical, VCA, FET, Dual-Band (LA2A Optical, 1176 Feedback)
Controls Attack, Release, Ratio, Threshold, Blend, Style Select
Blend/Mix Parallel, Serial, Band Split
Bypass Type True Bypass
Power Supply 9V DC, 200mA (center negative)
Dimensions 5.25 in x 2.6 in x 3 in

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Frequently Asked Questions

It captures the core warmth and smoothness, but lacks the subtle nuances of a vintage LA2A – a very respectable approximation, though.
Yes, the Neuro Editor allows for full MIDI control, so you can assign parameters like attack or ratio to an expression pedal.
Absolutely; it adds a pleasing grit and character when pushed, making it a great choice for rock or more aggressive styles.

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