Thermal-decorated TK Audio Transformer is a two-section harmonic generator and colour box that brings analogue warmth, punch and character to any mix. The first section offers three distinct harmonic stages: a transformer saturation stage (TX Drive) that adds around 1 per cent low-end harmonics and a 2 dB bump at 30 Hz, a passive saturation stage with predominantly odd harmonics and an optional even-harmonic switch, and an active germanium stage for a vintage-style blend of even and odd harmonics with softened top-end.
A gain control on the TK Audio Transformer lets you drive the saturation and germanium stages harder, followed by an output-trim control and a blend control to mix the processed and dry signals. An M/S function enables separate harmonic processing of mid (centre) and side (stereo) channels.
The second section of the TK Audio Transformer is a selectable transformer-coupled class-A stage offering a fat, punchy British 1970s tone with a mid-character and silky top-end. An HF-boost function adds a touch of air when required. Illuminated switches and forty-one-step detented potentiometers provide precise recall. Handmade in Halmstad, Sweden, the Transformer is ideal for adding analogue colour to in-the-box mixes or studio recordings.
Features
- TX Drive control: transformer saturation stage adding low-end harmonics and a 2 dB bump at 30 Hz
- TX Drive in/out: engage or bypass transformer stage
- Gain: up to +20 dB to drive saturation and germanium stages
- Saturation in/out: passive odd-harmonic stage with optional even-harmonic switch
- Even in/out: adds even harmonics to the saturation circuit
- Output trim: –20 dB to 0 dB level adjustment before blend
- Ge stage in/out: active germanium stage for even and odd harmonics with soft top end
- Blend control: mix processed harmonic signal with dry signal in 41 steps
- M/S in/out: separate mid and side harmonic processing
- Class-A in/out: transformer-coupled valve stage for vintage punch and warmth
- HF in/out: high-frequency boost in class-A stage
- Detented potentiometers: 41-step recallable controls
- Illuminated switches: clear visibility in low light
