WesAudio Rhea

Vari-Mu tube compressor 500 series with digital recall

• Fully analog Vari-Mu tube stereo compressor
• 500 series format with digital recall and DAW integration
• Analog headroom up to +24 dBu
• Carnhill interstage transformers for analog character
• MIX control for parallel compression
• THD control with Medium and High modes for harmonic saturation
• Sidechain filters with three HPF options: 60 Hz, 90 Hz and 150 Hz
• Analog gain reduction meter
• Full plug-in control with Total Recall
• Compatible with chassis 500 series and ng500 (e.g., WesAudio _TITAN)

The WesAudio _RHEA is an all-analog stereo Vari-Mu compressor designed to deliver warm, musical classic tube compression combined with the flexibility of digital recall. With plug-in control and DAW integration, this ng500 series module allows analog hardware to be used with the convenience of modern workflows.

The audio path is entirely analog and uses high-voltage tube circuits and Carnhill transformers, providing extremely musical and three-dimensional compression ideal for mix buses, mastering, and individual track processing.

Authentic Vari-Mu tube compression

The WesAudio _RHEA uses a true Vari-Mu circuit in which gain reduction occurs directly through tube behavior. This type of compression is known for its extremely musical and natural character, which is particularly valued in high-end dynamics processors.

The design uses a feed-backward compression configuration, typical of classic Vari-Mu compressors, which provides a smooth, progressive response ideal for dynamic mix control.

Carnhill transformers for analog character

The circuit integrates Carnhill interstage transformers that play a key role in signal processing before the tube section. This design not only optimizes the signal level for tube processing, but also adds depth, harmonics, and a fuller, more defined low-frequency response.

Parallel compression with MIX control

The MIX control allows the compressed signal to be mixed with the original signal, making it easy to use parallel compression techniques. This function is particularly useful for maintaining the natural dynamics of the signal while adding punch and control.

The MIX parameter can be automated directly in the DAW, allowing dynamic variations during the mix.

THD control for harmonic saturation

The THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) circuit allows controlled harmonic saturation to be introduced into the signal. Two selectable modes allow you to choose between different levels of analog coloration:

• Medium - moderate harmonic saturation
• High - more pronounced analog character

This function allows the signal to be enriched with musical harmonics that add depth and presence to the mix.

Sidechain filters for more control

The compressor includes sidechain high-pass filters to prevent low frequencies from activating the compression too much.

• 60 Hz
• 90 Hz
• 150 Hz

This allows for more stable and musical compression, especially on full mixes or stereo buses.

Digital Recall and Full DAW Integration

The WesAudio _RHEA offers complete control via plug-ins compatible with major formats:

• VST2
• VST3
• AU
• AAX
• AAX DSP

With the Total Recall function, all compressor settings are automatically saved within the DAW session.

Analog Automation

Touch-sensitive encoders allow automations to be recorded directly into the DAW for parameters such as threshold, input, output, and mix, making it possible to dynamically control the hardware while mixing.

Compatibility with 500 series and ng500

The compressor is fully compatible with standard 500 series chassis and WesAudio's ng500 system. Using chassis such as _TITAN, multiple modules can be controlled via a single USB or Ethernet connection.

Technical Specifications.

• Type: stereo Vari-Mu tube compressor
• Format: 500 series module
• Maximum headroom: +24 dBu
• Frequency response: 10 Hz - 150 kHz (-3 dB)
• THD+N: <0.03% (1 kHz, 0 dBu)
• Maximum THD: ≥1% at maximum compression
• Input impedance: 20 kOhm
• Output impedance: <100 Ohm
• Crosstalk: <-80 dB
• Attack: 0.5 / 1 / 3 / 10 / 30 / 50 ms
• Release: 0.1 / 0.3 / 0.6 / 0.9 / 1.8 / 3.6 s
• HPF sidechain filter: 60 / 90 / 150 Hz
• Power consumption: 190 mA per rail
• Dimensions: 76 × 133 × 158 mm
• Weight: 0.95 kg
• Warranty: 2 years