The Retro Sta-Level is a faithful recreation of the iconic Gates Sta-Level compressor from 1956, which played a vital role in shaping the sound of hit radio in the 1960s. The Retro Gold Edition celebrates 50 years of the product's existence and offers six recovery time settings and three operation modes, providing you with unprecedented flexibility and control over dynamics.
The Sta-Level uses a program-controlled release circuit that creates density and consistency while minimizing compressor side-effects at up to 40dB of gain reduction. The program path is transformer-balanced throughout to cancel control-induced distortion, while push-pull circuitry with a 6V6 output stage provides wide voltage swing for gain control and line output. As a result, the Sta-Level delivers an intimate, warm, and musical sound that is instantly recognizable.
This updated version of the Sta-Level features several revisions to the original design, including the ability to align tube balance instantly without test equipment, the use of easily obtainable 6BA6 gain reduction tubes, and XLR transformer-balanced input and output. It also includes hand-matched audiophile-grade coupling capacitors, custom-wound transformers, and an internal component safety cover.
Specifications:
- Gain Reduction Threshold: Continuously adjustable from +24dBm to -20dBm
- Available Gain Reduction: 40dB
- Total System Gain: 35dB (with standard input and output pads)
- Distortion: 1% or less from 0-30 dB gain reduction
- Frequency Response: ±0.25dB from 20-20,000 Hz
- Noise: -70dB or better referenced to gain reduction threshold
- Output Level: Continuously adjustable from -40 dBm to +18 dBm
- Input Impedance: Accepts low impedance active or transformer-balanced 0-600 Ohms
- Output Impedance: 600 Ohm transformer-balanced, terminated, and resistive pad-coupled
- Tube Complement: 2-6BA6, 1-12AT7, 2-6V6GT, 1-6AL5, 1-OB2, 1-5Y3GT
- Power Requirements: Three-prong IEC - Switchable 115-230 VAC - 50/60 Hz
- Mounting Requirements: 3U metal rack 5.25" high, 19" wide, 8" deep