Gainlab Audio Dictator DM

Vari-Mu Dual Mono Compressor with Dual Pentodes

• 2-channel Vari-Mu tube compressor with Dual Mono and Stereo configurations
• Two separately configurable compression sections for processing channels independently
• HICOMP and LOCOMP operating modes for different dynamic behaviors
• 12-step selectable threshold for precise, easily recallable settings
• Switch controls to precisely replicate settings across both compressors
• Linkable sidechain to maintain interaction between the two channels when needed
• Selectable sidechain filter at 80 Hz and 120 Hz
• 3-position selectable attack and 3-position selectable release
• Suitable for mastering, master bus, individual tracks, recording, and tube saturation
• High headroom with a maximum input level of +22 dBu and an output level exceeding +26 dBu

Gainlab Audio Dictator Dual Mono: Two-Channel Vari-Mu Compressor

The Gainlab Audio GLA-TC2 Dictator Dual Mono is a two-channel tube dynamics processor designed to extend the versatility of the original Dictator to dual-mono applications. Its architecture incorporates two separately configurable Vari-Mu compressors, allowing you to process the two channels independently without sacrificing the ability to use them together. The design stems from the need to make the Dictator even more flexible for modern audio production. While the original model was developed primarily for processing two-channel stereo material, the Dictator Dual Mono allows the two sections to be used on independent signals as well, expanding its capabilities in recording, mixing, and mastering.

Two Independent Vari-Mu Compressors for Dual Mono and Stereo

In the Dictator Dual Mono, each channel features a separately configurable Vari-Mu section, retaining most of the original Dictator’s functionality. This configuration allows the processor to be used either as two independent channels or to process stereo material.

Switch-Based Controls for Precise, Recallable Settings

The controls are implemented via switches, a solution that allows you to set both compressors to the same values with precision and facilitates repeatable adjustments. The threshold has 12 positions, while the attack and release times each offer 3 selectable settings. The processor also features HICOMP and LOCOMP modes.

Linkable sidechain and 80 Hz and 120 Hz filters

While allowing for independent parameterization of the two channels, the Gainlab Audio GLA-TC2 retains the ability to connect the sidechain. The sidechain filter offers selectable frequencies at 80 Hz and 120 Hz, allowing you to adjust how the compression circuit responds to low frequencies.

Dictator DM for master bus, tracking, and tube saturation

The Gainlab Audio Dictator Dual Mono can be used as a dynamics processor on the master bus, on individual tracks, or directly during recording. Its tube-based architecture also allows it to be used not only for dynamic control but also to introduce saturation and character to the signal. Depending on the settings, the Dictator DM can provide more pronounced and punchy compression on the bus, emphasize transients and saturation, or be used primarily as a tube saturator with minimal dynamic control.

Gainlab Audio GLA-TC2: Tube Flexibility for Studio and Mastering

The ability to operate in Dual Mono or Stereo makes the GLA-TC2 particularly versatile within a studio. The two independent channels allow you to process different sources with dedicated settings, while the step controls make it easy to set consistent values on both sides when working with stereo material. With a specified frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±1 dB, a maximum input level of +22 dBu, and a maximum output level exceeding +26 dBu, the Dictator Dual Mono is designed to integrate into professional recording, mixing, and mastering workflows.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Gainlab Audio GLA-TC2 Dictator Dual Mono
• Type: 2-channel Vari-Mu tube dynamics processor
• Number of channels: 2
• Channel configuration: Dual Mono, Stereo
• Operating modes: HICOMP, LOCOMP
• Threshold: 12 steps
• Attack: selectable, 3 options
• Release: selectable, 3 options
• Sidechain filter: 80 Hz, 120 Hz
• Linkable sidechain
• Inputs: 2 x balanced XLR
• Outputs: 2 x balanced XLR
• Maximum input level: +22 dBu
• Input impedance: >10 kOhm
• Maximum output level: >+26 dBu
• Output impedance: <65 ohms
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±1 dB
• THD+N at 0 dBu: <0.3%
• Dimensions: 483 x 280 x 89 mm
• Weight: 4.8 kg
• Power supply: 230 V AC (EU), 110 V AC (US)