Do you love the aggressive mid-range and coloration of the 1176 blue face, the subtle character and versatility of revision D on vocals and bass and love the gentle and transparent properties of revision G on acoustic guitar and stringed instruments? Then the Stam SA-76ADG is the ideal compressor for you.
As we were already planning to do a 1176 model of each famous revision, it occurred to us, why make just one if we could deliver all 3 versions to our clients, at the same price as a single unit? Mechanically and component-wise the cost was marginally higher, and we could use both the 0-12 and 50002 transformers for the A and D sections as used on the original units and bypass the transformers for revision G like the original.
There were 2 challenges to overcome. First, each revision had to sound 100% identical to the original by respecting the original signal path and schematic. Secondly, it had to look like an original 1176. We removed the +4 and +10 metering options and left the VU meter in standard Gain Reduction mode, in order to utilize the original switches to select between which revision you want. With the aid of several relays, we have insured that you can switch from one version to another, seamlessly respecting the original sound.
Each unit comes with a Sowter input transformer O-12 replica and a Sowter 1327 output transformer, Philip capacitors, Ohmite carbon comp resistors, tantalum and the correct output transistors, 20N3055 on the D revision and 2N5055 on the A revision.
Commercially, it would have made more sense for us to release all 3 revisions separately and it would have meant selling more units, but for us at Stam Audio, it is important for us that you get the most out of your money, as well as optimize rack space.
The Stam SA-76ADG is made with premium components.
We have gone to great length to faithfully reproduce the compression characteristics and tonality of the original. The Stam SA-76ADG features a Sowter 1260 input transformer, which is an identical replica of the original UTC O-12 (Ratio 1:1.58 200/500 Ohms) and a CineMag output transformer that precisely matches the ratio and frequency response of the original 5002 output transformer designed by Bill Putnam.
We have made no compromise in parts such as Vishay capacitors, NOS carbon resistors and matched selected transistors to ensure you will get the best sounding unit without cutting any corners. All of the Stam SA-76ADG’s are calibrated in our workshop in Chile where they get their transformers soldered, a full health check, and a burn for 24 hours.
