HUM Audio - LAAL

An analogue limiter designed for mastering

The HUM Audio Devices LAAL (Look Ahead Analogue Limiter) is a 2-channel analogue limiter designed for demanding mastering applications. It can operate as a stereo limiter or as two independent mono limiters.

Its key feature is its fully analogue Look Ahead system, based on a 0.2 ms delay line. This technology enables the detection circuit to react to very fast peaks before they reach the gain reduction stage. According to HUM Audio Devices, this design enables high RMS levels to be achieved whilst preserving the energy in the lower end of the spectrum and the punch of the signal.

The LAAL features a fully discrete audio path, a very high headroom and an internal linear power supply utilising a double-shielded toroidal transformer. The detection circuits also benefit from thermal compensation designed to ensure the stability and repeatability of the processing.

The Dynamic Transient function is one of the LAAL’s key features: it regenerates transients in proportion to the limiting level to preserve the signal’s spaciousness and detail. The Stereo Width function, meanwhile, allows the stereo image to be widened across six positions, whilst remaining mono-compatible.

The LAAL offers six release times, ranging from 2 to 100 ms, as well as precise input and output adjustments in 0.2 dB steps via the Trim controls. The gain reduction LED indicators also offer a resolution of 0.2 dB.

Finally, the LAAL incorporates Transformer, Detect Link L+R, Limiter Bypass and Hard Bypass functions to precisely tailor its operation to each mastering session.