Warm Audio - Classic 1176-Style Discrete FET Compressor

The WA76 Discrete Compressor is a modern reproduction of the Classic '76 Revision D limiting amplifier. The WA76 has a fully discrete signal path and uses the original Reichenbach Engineering's (now CineMag) transformer design.

The classic '76 was a major breakthrough in limiter technology, being the first true peak limiter with an all transistor circuitry while offering superior performance and a signature sound. Engineers have craved the ultra-fast attack time and trademark sound of the '76 for decades, and now it is finally affordable!

The WA76 can reproduce the classic effect known as 'All Buttons In' mode, sometimes also referred to as 'British Mode' or the 'Four Button Trick'. Originally an accident due to the mechanical nature of the interconnected latching switches, this mode is reproduced by pushing in all four ratio buttons simultaneously and getting them to latch. This can take a bit of practice. The resulting compression curve is aggressive and unmistakably unique, and can be heard on the drum tracks of many classic recordings. All-buttons-in compression is typically characterized by having a very aggressive compression ratio, attack and release curves that are more drastic plateaus opposed to gentler slopes, and more audible distortion or 'overdrive' on the signal. Initial transients are more likely to come through loudly, followed by heavy compression curve sometimes described as having a 'sucking' effect as the compressor releases. Because this mode is considered a design accident, faithfully maintained; it is normal for the meter function to 'peg out' and cease providing accurate metering.

Features and Specifications:

• Compressor/Limiting Amplifier
• Utilizes premium grade input and output CineMag USA Transformers.
• True to the Classic '76 compressor in design and performance.
• Completely discrete signal path.
• Supports the famous "all buttons in" ratio setting.
• Ultra fast attack time.
• Class A line level output amplifier.
• Input impedance - 600 ohms, bridges-T control (floating).
• Frequency Response: 1 dB 20 Hz to 20kHz.
• XLR and TRS inputs. XLR and TRS outputs.
• 50db of gain.
• Less than 0.4% total harmonic distortion from 50 Hz to 20 kHz with limiting.
• Signal to noise ratio is greater than 74 dB at +25 dBm.
EIN -104.1 dbm.
• Attack time, 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds.
• Release time, 50 milliseconds to 1 second.
• Meter provides dB gain reduction and dB output.
• Internal power supply, external 24v AC power transformer.
• 19" Rackmount chassis, 2U.
• Dimensions: 19 x 6 x 3.5" (483 x 152 x 89 mm)