Tegeler Audio Schwerkraftmaschine

The Tegeler Audio Schwerkraftmaschine is a remote-controllable Vari-Mu mastering and bus compressor built around 3 transformers and 4 triode tubes per channel, pairing an all-analog signal path with a digital sidechain engine that unlocks 11 distinct compression modes—from emulations of optical and VCA behavior to complex, program-adaptive modes with no direct analog equivalent. Servomotor-driven controls on every potentiometer enable complete hardware recall: the companion DAW plugin (VST, AU, and AAX) syncs to the unit in real time, and saving a session automatically saves all physical control positions, which are fully restored on reload. A sidechain filter operates independently from the compression mode filters and can be configured as a low-cut (0–300 Hz) or tilt EQ, and a dual mono mode with M/S matrix support extends the unit to mid-side compression. For Los Angeles mastering engineers and mix engineers who want the harmonic density of a Vari-Mu compressor alongside the session recall and remote control of a modern digital workflow, the Schwerkraftmaschine operates equally well from the front panel, from a DAW, or from anywhere on the network.

Key Features

• Vari-Mu signal path — 3 transformers and 4 triode tubes per channel — the fully analog audio path runs through transformers and triode tubes on both channels, adding harmonic overtones, tightening low-end definition, and rounding high-frequency transients in the manner associated with classic large-format Vari-Mu designs.
• 11 digitally-generated compression modes via digital sidechain — a digital control signal drives the analog gain reduction element, making it possible to emulate the timing behavior of optical, VCA, and Vari-Mu compressors—including memory-effect characteristics—alongside original modes developed through extensive listening sessions and unavailable in any analog-only design. Modes include: Multi-Band Complex, Diode Pressor, Breakthrough, Stereo Transformer, Vari Tube Compressor, Vocal Leveler, Optical Compressor, Drum Smasher, Classical Vari-Mu, Chart Analysis, and DeEsser.
• Servomotor-driven potentiometers — every control is fitted with a servomotor that physically moves the pot to any recalled position. A slip-clutch mechanism always prioritizes hands-on adjustments, so front-panel control is never interrupted by remote or recalled settings.
• DAW plugin with bidirectional sync and full session recall — the companion VST, AU, and AAX plugin mirrors the hardware controls in real time. Saving a project saves all Schwerkraftmaschine settings; reloading the project restores every physical control to its exact saved position automatically.
• Network remote control — connecting the Schwerkraftmaschine to a local network via DHCP enables control from any networked device, and the unit can be operated remotely from any location with network access.
• Sidechain filter — independent low-cut or tilt EQ — the sidechain filter operates separately from each compression mode’s built-in filtering. It can be configured as a low-cut from 0–300 Hz to prevent low-frequency pumping, or as a tilt EQ to weight the compressor’s response toward higher or lower frequencies.
• Dual mono mode with M/S matrix support — the plugin splits the Schwerkraftmaschine into two fully independent mono channels with separate control over all parameters (sharing only the compression mode), enabling parallel processing of two tracks or mid-side compression via an integrated LR/MS and MS/LR matrix.
• Full front-panel operation — all network-based features are optional; the Schwerkraftmaschine functions as a conventional hardware unit with complete front-panel control when no plugin or network connection is in use.

Specifications

• Format: 3U rackmount
• Dimensions: 3U × 19.02″ W × 9.84″ D (H: 5.20″)
• Compression Modes: 11
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz–24 kHz
• Maximum Input Level: +20 dBu
• Input Impedance: ≥2.4 kΩ
• Output Impedance: <600 Ω
• Maximum Output Level: +24 dBu
• Dynamic Range: ≥101 dB
• Attenuation-to-Crosstalk Ratio (L/R): >90 dB @ 1 kHz
• Sidechain Filter: Low-cut 0–300 Hz or tilt filter
• Remote Control: Network (DHCP), DAW plug-in (VST, AU, AAX)
• Voltage: 110–240 V~/50–60 Hz
• Fuse: 2A slow-blow
• Maximum Power Consumption: <25 W