Studio Gear Timeline

Our Studio Gear timeline now includes Audio Recorders and Classic Music Tracks to help place the gear within the history of recorded music. Any errors, please notify us using our contact form.

1937

Compressors & Limiters

/ Made In U.S.A.

Western Electric 110A Program Amplifier

The Western Electric 110A Program Amplifier, released in 1937, was a pioneering broadcast audio compressor designed to enhance radio transmission quality and prevent over-modulation. Known as the first compressor of its kind, this amplifier delivered a 3 dB increase in average audio signal level, effectively doubling the broadcast area without needing additional transmitter power.

1937

Compressors & Limiters

Made In U.S.A. /

RCA 96-A Limiting Amplifier

The RCA 96-A Limiting Amplifier, released in 1937 just six months after the release of the Western Electric 110-A and it provided high compression capabilities with low distortion and uniform frequency response.

1938

Compressors & Limiters

/ Made In U.S.A.

Collins 26C Limiting Amplifier

The Collins 26C is a general-purpose program amplifier, including means for preventing the peak output signal amplitude from exceeding a certain predetermined level. The amplifier includes a rectifier and filter system, operating from an external isolation transformer, supplied.

1945

Compressors & Limiters

Made In U.S.A. /

Altec A322 C Limiter Amplifier

The Altec A322 C Limiter Amplifier is invaluable for use in film and disc recordings, broadcasting, and public address applications. Its use in film and disc recordings prevents over-modulation and allows a higher average level of recording without danger of distortion.

1946

Compressors & Limiters

/ Made In U.S.A.

Raytheon RL-10 Limiting Amplifier

The Raytheon RL-10 is a vintage broadcast peak-limiting amplifier featuring 43 dB of gain, automatic gain reduction, and a tube-driven design for high-fidelity AM/FM programme chains. With precise metering, selectable recovery times, and low distortion, it remains a testament to mid-century broadcast engineering.

1946

Compressors & Limiters

Made In U.S.A. /

Langevin PROGAR 119-A Peak Limiter

The Langevin PROGAR 119-A, introduced in the late 1940s, is a vintage tube-based compressor/limiter known for its rarity and distinctive design. The name "PROGAR" stands for "Program Guardian," reflecting its intended role in broadcast applications to manage audio levels and prevent distortion.

1947

Compressors & Limiters

/ Made In U.S.A.

General Electric BA-5 Limiting Amplifier

The General Electric BA-5 is a broadcast limiting amplifier designed for AM and FM stations, delivering high-quality audio control with minimal distortion and excellent signal-to-noise performance.

1948

Milestone

Made In U.S.A. /

Ampex Introduces the Model 200 Tape Recorder

In 1948, Ampex unveiled the Model 200 reel-to-reel tape recorder, introducing professional magnetic tape recording to the United States for the first time. The development was driven by entertainer Bing Crosby, who sought to pre-record his radio shows with better sound quality and editing flexibility than was possible on lacquer discs. The Ampex 200 transformed recording and broadcasting, establishing magnetic tape as the new professional standard.

1948

Reel to Reel Recorders

/ Made In U.S.A.

Ampex Model 200 Tape Recorder

The Ampex Model 200, introduced in 1948, was the first professional reel-to-reel recorder to achieve broadcast-quality performance. With precision tube electronics, a full-track design, and remarkable stability, it transformed radio and studio recording and established Ampex as the industry’s leading innovator.

1948

Milestone

Made In U.S.A. /

Introduction of the LP Record

The introduction of the LP record (Long Play) by Columbia Records in June 1948 transformed the entire recording industry and changed the way music was created, distributed, and experienced. Developed under the direction of Peter Carl Goldmark and his team at CBS Laboratories, the 33⅓ rpm microgroove record used a much finer groove than the existing 78 rpm discs, dramatically extending playback time from three to over twenty minutes per side. This technological leap enabled full symphonies, concept albums, and long-form performances to be released on a single disc, paving the way for the album era of modern music.