WesAudio _Rhea

As the digital footprint became a core part of the modern era, the demand for analog warmth grew stronger than ever. Few designs offer more musical and rich-sounding compression than the vari-mu. Now, the ng500 series introduces _RHEA—the most refined of them all, where vintage meets modern, quite literally.

Despite its digital control features, _RHEA is a fully analog unit. The audio signal is processed exclusively through analog components, preserving the rich, warm sound that only analog circuitry can deliver.

Main Features

• 100% analog device with +24dBu of headroom.
• True stereo tube vari-mu compressor for rich, warm compression.
• High voltage tube operation for optimal performance.
• Interstage CARNHILL transformers for enhanced signal quality.
• Input and output level controls for maximum flexibility in signal management.
• Mix knob for easy parallel compression.
• THD control with two modes: Medium and High, for harmonic distortion.
• Sidechain filters with 3 high-pass filter options: 60Hz, 90Hz, and 150Hz.
• Compatible with 500 series and ng500 series (e.g., _TITAN).
• Total Recall and plugin control, compatible with most DAWs.
• Supports analog automation within DAWs for seamless integration.

ANALOG SOUND, DIGITAL CONTROL

Regardless of its digital control features, _RHEA is a fully analog unit.

True Tube Compression

_RHEA is a true tube compressor, where gain reduction is directly achieved through a tube circuit. As a classic vari-mu design, it operates with feed-backward compression, renowned for delivering exceptionally musical and smooth compression results.

Interstage Transformers

To properly integrate tubes into modern audio levels, transformers play a key role just before the signal reaches the tubes, enhancing the process. This not only helps smooth the signal but also accentuates the low end, giving it a fuller, more pronounced sound.

Mix Knob for Parallel Compression

With the MIX knob, achieving parallel compression has never been easier! With _RHEA, you can automate your MIX settings directly in your DAW.

THD – Add Color to Your Mixes

THD, or Total Harmonic Distortion, enhances your signal by introducing analog saturation, adding rich harmonic warmth and depth. This saturation lends a pleasing vintage color to the sound, making it feel fuller and more musical, perfect for adding character and texture to your audio.

Sidechain Filters

_RHEA sidechain filter functionality allows modification of the signal going into the compressor’s detector. It includes three high-pass filters at 60Hz, 90Hz, and 150Hz.

Hardware A/B

Even when using _RHEA as a purely analog signal processor, you can easily switch between two parallel settings with the simple press of a button.

Total Recall and Plugin Control

Along with the classic analog compression, _RHEA offers one of the most highly requested features in the audio industry — TOTAL RECALL. Complete plugin control via VST2, VST3, AU, AAX, and AAX DSP ensures _RHEA is compatible with nearly all major DAWs.

Main Features Summary

• 100% analog device with +24dBu of headroom.
• True stereo tube vari-mu compressor for rich, warm compression.
• High voltage tube operation for optimal performance.
• Interstage CARNHILL transformers for enhanced signal quality.
• Input and output level controls for maximum flexibility in signal management.
• Mix knob for easy parallel compression.
• THD control with two modes: Medium and High, for harmonic distortion.
• Sidechain filters with 3 high-pass filter options: 60Hz, 90Hz, and 150Hz.
• Compatible with 500 series and ng500 series (e.g., _TITAN).
• Total Recall and plugin control, compatible with most DAWs.
• Supports analog automation within DAWs for seamless integration.

Other Features

• Fully digitally controlled yet isolated analog circuit for seamless integration.
• Digital recall available through the front panel mini USB socket or through the _TITAN chassis.
• 4 touch-sensitive encoders allow automation recording of specific parameters (Threshold, Mix, Input, Output) in DAW.
• True bypass ensures signal integrity.
• Accurate analog gain reduction (GR) meter with precise simulation in the plugin.
• Free software and firmware upgrades.

• Frequency response: 10Hz-150kHz (-3dB)
• THD+N: < 0.03% (1kHz,0dBu) no compression
• THD+N: >= 1% at maximum compression level
• Input impedance: 20kohm
• Output impedance: < 100ohm
• Max signal level: +24dBu
• Crosstalk: < -80dB
• THD (MID switch): 1%
• THD (HIGH switch): 3%
• Attack: 0.5,1,3,10,30,50 (ms)
• Release: 0.1,0.3,0.6,0.9,1.8,3.6 (s)
• SC Filter: 60,90,150 Hz
• Power consumption: 190mA per rail
• Dimensions: 76x133x158mm
• Box dimensions: 105x162x234mm
• Unit weight: 0.95 kg
• Box weight: 1.2 kg
• Warranty: 2 years