Warm Audio WA76-D: Bring the “Workhorse” of the Studio World into your home
No device has made as big a mark on the history of pop and rock music as the 1176 compressor. The Warm Audio WA76-D brings the specific “Revision D” variant to the modern studio. This revision is known to engineers as the most linear and reliable version, with a lower noise floor and a powerful, clear sound that pushes any signal directly to the forefront of the mix.
Unmatched Components: CineMag & Discrete FET
Warm Audio does not compromise when it comes to the analog signal chain. The WA76-D uses:
Custom CineMag USA Transformers: These transformers provide the sought-after saturation and weight in the low-mid that digital plug-ins simply cannot match.
Discrete Signal Path: No ICs, but a completely discrete design that stays true to the original vintage scheme.
Premium Capacitors & Resistors: For impeccable signal transmission and long life.
The Sound of Power and Control
The WA76-D excels in versatility. Use it subtly to equalize a vocal part, or use the infamous “All-Buttons-In” mode (aka British Mode) to get drums fully “pumping” and guitars a raw edge. The lightning-fast attack time (up to 20 microseconds) allows you to control even the brightest peaks effortlessly.
New Functions for the Modern Engineer
Although the core is vintage, the WA76-D offers clever extras:
Dry/Wet Parallel Mix: Mix your dry signal directly with the compressed signal for the perfect balance of dynamics and impact.
Sidechain High-Pass Filter: Prevent low frequencies from unnecessarily triggering the compressor, ideal for maintaining the punch of a kick drum.
Stereo Link: Link two units for a crystal clear stereo image on your bus or subgroups.
Technical specifications
Type: Single-Channel FET Compressor / Limiting Amplifier.
Revision: Based on the classic 1176 Revision D.
Transformers: CineMag USA Input & Output.
Attack time: 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds.
Release time: 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds.
Ratios: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1 & All-Button mode.
Inputs/Outputs: balanced XLR and TRS.
Enclosure: 2U 19-inch rack size.
