Locomotive Audio Power-MU 500 – High-End Stereo Tube Compressor for 500 Series
The Locomotive Audio Power-MU 500 is a premium stereo vari-mu compressor designed for the 500 series format. Built for discerning audio professionals, it offers the rich warmth and musicality of tube compression with modern workflow features like stepped controls for precise recall. Whether you're gently gluing a stereo bus or pushing for dense harmonic coloration, the Power-MU 500 delivers world-class analog tone with full control.
Smooth and Musical Tube Compression
At the heart of the Power-MU 500 are two NOS 6N3P tubes per channel, providing true vari-mu operation and the lush, harmonically rich sound only tubes can deliver. Custom interstage transformers ensure a silky compression response without harsh artifacts, preserving the musicality of your source material even under heavy gain reduction.
Advanced Control and Total Recall
With its AC and DC threshold controls, the Power-MU gives you detailed control over the onset, ratio, and knee of your compression. From soft, transparent dynamics control to punchy, aggressive limiting, the Power-MU 500 adapts to your mix. Its 21-position stepped input, output, and threshold knobs make it easy to recall exact settings—ideal for professional workflows and mix revisions.
Essential Features for the Modern Studio
The Power-MU 500 includes a sidechain low-cut filter (Off–350 Hz), stereo link switch, hardwire bypass, and a dual-mode VU meter for gain reduction and output monitoring. A custom backlit Sifam VU meter and heavy-duty steel chassis speak to the build quality you'd expect from a hand-made unit, proudly crafted in the USA.
Why Choose the Locomotive Audio Power-MU 500?
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True stereo vari-mu compression in 500 series format
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NOS tubes and custom transformers for classic tube tone
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Stepped controls for easy, precise recall
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Stereo link for consistent imaging
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Sidechain low cut to prevent pumping from low-end content
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Hardwire bypass and power switch to preserve tubes and chassis
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Built like a tank—backed by a lifetime warranty
Technical Specifications
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Tubes: 2 x NOS 6N3P
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Input impedance: 22kΩ
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Output impedance: <100Ω
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Attack time: 10ms–75ms
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Release time: 150ms–1.5s
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Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
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THD+N: <1%
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S/N ratio: >70dB
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Power Consumption: +16V/260mA, –16V/300mA
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Weight: 5 lbs
Perfect for mixing and mastering engineers looking to add color, depth, and professional-grade control to their signal chain, the Locomotive Audio Power-MU 500 sets a new standard for 500 series stereo tube compression. Whether you're polishing vocals, gluing a drum bus, or mastering a full mix, the Power-MU 500 is your go-to tool for dynamic excellence.
