WA76 F.E.T Compressor by Warm Audio

reproducing a legendThe Warm Audio WA76 Discrete Compressor is a modern reproduction of the Classic '76 Revision D, featuring a completly discrete signal path with the original Reichenbach Engineering's (now CineMag) transformer design. The classic '76 was a huge breakthrough in limiter technology, and was used on hundreds of hit records since its beginning.

Engineers have searched for the ultra-fast attack time and trademark sound of the '76 for decades, and now it is finally affordable! The goal was to make a compressor of this standard affordable for the first time, without compromising on quality and design elements that make this type of compressor so desirable.

Amazing Features • Made using premium grade input and output cinemag USA transformers
• Completely discrete signal path modeled after the D Revision
• True to the classic '76 compressor in design and performance
• Supports the renowned 'all buttons in' ratio setting
• Class A line level output amplifier

Classic StyleThe WA76 can recreate the classic effect known as ‘All Buttons In’ mode, often 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 at the same time and getting them to latch, which can take a bit of practice. The result is an aggressive and unmistakably unique compression curve that 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, then a heavy compression curve sometimes described as having a ‘sucking’ effect as the compressor releases. As this mode is considered a design accident, faithfully maintained; it is normal for the meter function to ‘peg out’ and cease providing accurate metering.