Manley Labs Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor with MS Mod and T-Bar Mod Option

SKU: MLMSLCHPMSTB MFR: MSLCHPMSTBAR
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Key Features

  • Achieve pristine audio with the Variable Mu Limiter's exceptional sound quality.
  • Enjoy versatile dynamic control, from subtle compression to hard limiting effects.
  • The T-Bar mod enhances tube circuitry, delivering a unique sonic character for pros.
  • Use the High-Pass Side-Chain Filter to reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble effectively.
  • Craft polished mixes with the intuitive controls and illuminated Sifam metering.
  • This studio compressor provides durability and reliability for years of use in your studio.
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Special Order?Estimated to Ship: 09/07/2025
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Manley Labs Compressor + MS & T-Bar Specifications

  • Number of Channels

    2

  • Inputs

    2x XLR transformer balanced (600Ohms)

  • Outputs

    2x XLR transformer balanced (600Ohms)

  • Input Level

    Input Level Switch: -8, -4, -2, -1, 0, +1, +2, +4, and +8dB

  • Compression Threshold

    Continuously variable threshold for compression and limiting

  • Ratio

    Compressor: 1.5:1
    Limiter: 4:1 to 20:1

  • Attack Time

    Variable Attack: 25 to 70ms

  • Release Time

    Recovery 5 Steps: 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 4.0, 8.0sec

  • Maximum Output Level

    +30dBu (26Vrms) 26dB Headroom

  • Make-up Gain

    +35dB

  • Frequency Response

    20Hz to 25kHz

  • THD & Noise

    <0.1% THD at 1kHz

  • Noise Floor

    -85dB typical

  • Meter

    Illuminated Sifam meters

  • Tubes per Side

    Fully Differential All-Tube Circuitry: 5670, 5751 (or 12AX7), 7044 (or 5687) & 12AL5
    (T-Bar mod replaced 5670's with 2 pairs of 6BA6's)

  • High Pass Filter

    HP SC: High-Pass Side-Chain Filter:
    -1 to -3dB at 100Hz
    -4 to -6dB at 50Hz

  • Rackmountable

    2U

  • Power Supply

    120VAC, 80W, 60Hz

  • Mains Fuse Value

    1.25A

  • Mains Fuse Type

    MDA or MDL SLO-BLO Time Delay: 1-1/4" x 1/4"

  • Dimensions (W x H x D)

    19.0 x 3.5 x 10.0" / 48.26 x 8.89 x 25.40cm
    Power Transformer protrudes 3.5" / 8.89cm out back of chassis

  • Weight

    14.0lbs / 6.35kg

About Manley Labs Compressor + MS & T-Bar

It's time to elevate your audio experience with the Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor from Manley Labs, a renowned brand in the audio industry. This professional-grade, high-quality audio equipment is designed with innovative features and advanced technology to deliver a rich, warm sound that enhances your audio recordings.

The Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor is equipped with a unique tube/valve circuitry, known for its ability to add character to audio signals. This circuitry uses two single-pentode tubes wired in triode for peak reduction and compression. The tube circuit is constantly re-biased by the vacuum tube rectified side-chain control voltages, resulting in a smooth change in gain.

This durable audio equipment comes with a Mid/Side Mod that adds stereo enhancement, and a T-Bar Mod that replicates the sound of the original Variable Mu. It also features Manley input and output transformers with nickel laminations in mu-metal cases, ensuring a flat frequency response from 20Hz-25KHz.

The Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor is designed with fully differential ALL-TUBE circuitry using one each 5670, 5751 (or 12Ax7), 7044 (or 5687) & 12AL5 per channel. It also includes independently regulated B+ and Heater supplies, a hard-wire BYPASS switch, and a stepped switch INPUT attenuator.

The unit is factory set for 100V, 120V or 220-240VAC operation for the original destination country's mains voltage. It also has an operating Mains Voltage changeable with a power transformer changeover switch and fuse value change.

The Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor is not just an audio equipment, it's a standard in Mastering studios and has contributed to most hit records over the last decade. The "Mu" in its name is tube-speak for gain, and Variable Mu is Manley's registered trademark for this limiter compressor. It works by using the "remote cut-off" or re-biasing of a vacuum tube to achieve compression.

This audio equipment also features a unique 5670 dual triode at the center of the peak-reducing and compression action. This tube is constantly being re-biased by the vacuum tube rectified side-chain control voltages, causing this tube to smoothly change its gain.

The Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor is designed for use in recording studios and live sound applications. It's perfect for controlling the level of audio signals and adding a desired amount of compression to enhance the overall sound quality. Whether you're a musician, an audio engineer, or an audiophile, this Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor is a must-have for your audio equipment collection.

Manley Labs Compressor + MS & T-Bar Features

  • Advanced tube/valve circuitry for warm, rich audio character
  • Professional-grade Mid/Side Mod for enhanced stereo imaging
  • T-Bar Mod replicates the sound of the original Variable Mu
  • Manley transformers with flat frequency response from 20Hz-25KHz
  • Fully differential all-tube circuitry with independently regulated supplies
  • Factory set for multiple voltage operation with easy changeover switch

Product Documents

User Manual

Key Features

  • Achieve pristine audio with the Variable Mu Limiter's exceptional sound quality.
  • Enjoy versatile dynamic control, from subtle compression to hard limiting effects.
  • The T-Bar mod enhances tube circuitry, delivering a unique sonic character for pros.
  • Use the High-Pass Side-Chain Filter to reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble effectively.
  • Craft polished mixes with the intuitive controls and illuminated Sifam metering.
  • This studio compressor provides durability and reliability for years of use in your studio.

What's in the box:

  • Manley Labs Stereo Variable Mu Limiter Compressor with MS Mod & T-Bar Mod Option
  • IEC Power Cable
  • Manley Labs 90 day Limited Warranty