Photon 500
LED Opto-Compressor
Classic Optical Compression Heritage
Photon 500 is built around opto-compression principles developed in the 1960s, where gain reduction is achieved through light-dependent control rather than aggressive circuitry. This approach results in smooth, program-dependent compression that feels natural and musical.
Elegant Gain Control via Opto-Coupler
At the heart of Photon 500 is an opto-coupler introducing negative feedback into the audio path. This method provides inherently smooth attack and release behavior, making it ideal for leveling vocals, bass, and dynamic instruments without audible artifacts.
Modern Signal Path with Vintage Character
The input stage is electronically balanced and driven by a 2520-compatible op-amp, ensuring clarity and consistency. On the output, an IGS Custom transformer adds subtle harmonic richness and proper isolation, completing a refined analog signal chain.
Sweet, Classy, and Musical
Photon 500 is designed for engineers who value elegance over aggression. It delivers tasteful dynamic control that enhances performances while preserving tone, making it a dependable opto compressor for tracking and mixing in modern studios.
Specifications
| Device Type | Optical Compressor |
| Stepped Manipulators | Yes |
| Sidechain High-Pass Filter | Off, 60 Hz, 120 Hz |
| Audio Transformers | Yes, IGS Custom |
| Input Impedance Balanced |
10 kΩ |
| Output Impedance Balanced |
600 Ω, custom transformer |
| Operating Level | +4 dBu |
| Maximum Input Level | +20 dBu |
| Maximum Output Level | +22 dBu |
| Maximum Gain Reduction | 20 dB |
| Maximum Gain | 30 dB |
| Noise Level | −99 dBA |
| Ratio | 2:1, 4:1, 12:1 |
| Frequency Response | 8 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.1 dB |
| THD+N | 0.012% |
| Power Consumption | 2.5 W |
| Shipping Weight | 1 kg |