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.
