Retro Instruments

Retro Instruments STA Level

Most all compressors and limiters bring out some noticable detail because of the nature of attack time on peak transients. Compression also pulls up softer sounds which creates useful density. The most critical aspect of a compressor is the musicality in which the gain is changed over time. The STA-LEVEL original attack and release times are very well chosen to minimize the audibility of pumping and distortion while adding the desired density and consistency. The release time is also dependent on the 6386 transconductance so it becomes a non-linear function, releasing faster at higher gain reduction amounts. In dual mode, another constant is added that further creates density and masks the sound of the slower constant acting as AGC or “gain-rider”.

The STA-LEVEL adds a pleasing transient distortion manifested as subsonic punch. This subsonic energy is created at gain reduction attack periods and accentuates the natural attack waveform of the audio material. It is referred to as VCA thump by circuit designers and occurs from imbalances in the VCA response to control bias. It is a very characteristic sound of real tube compressors that make them so useful. Subsonic energy present in a live instrument or performance are easily lost in the recording process. The STA-LEVEL brings back the live realism. Furthermore, your recording processes down the line will have new usefulness and meaning. Real vacuum tube compression is the one trick pony you will applaud again and again.

Retro Instruments 176

The Retro Instruments Retro 176 Limiting Amplifier has the largest feature set in any variable-mu design.

• Precision Knob scales for easy recallability
  
• Continuously variable attack and release time
  
• Four settings of compression ratio from soft compression to limiting (2:1, 4:1, 8:1, 12:1)
  
• Wide-Range Sidechain Highpass Filter
  
• Vocal Assymetry Tool
  
• Hard-wire Bypass Switch
  
• Interstage Transformer Bypass Switch
  
• High Quality VU Meter switchable between Input, Output and Gain Reduction
  
• XLR input and output connections
  
• IEC power connector
  
• 115/230V AC Mains
  
• Integral tube balance test
  
• Easy stereo strapping of two or more units
  
• Selected NOS tubes and components
  
  
  Specifications for the Retro 176 include:
  
  

• 20 dB of available gain reduction
  
• Signal to noise ratio of greater than 76dB
  
• Flat frequency response within 0.5dB from 20-20,000Hz and Harmonic Distortion of less than 1% from 0-15dB gain reduction
  
  
  Retro products are built in the USA and include a Limited Lifetime Warranty.