Sound Pure's Take
I found it pretty remarkable that a compressor originally designed as a clearly technical solution (leveling audio for broadcast) can have such a musical and rich sound. Not to discredit its “leveling” abilities, this compressor is near impossible to “over-push” into hearing undesirable compression artifacts. While producing extremely dense, full-bodied audio, the Sta-Level adds a layer of tube polish and warmth that is unmistakably musical, smooth, and pleasing, making it just as excellent at controlling levels as it is making a voice or instrument shine with full-tube glory.
You may asking asking yourself, “Why this over an LA-2A?” Definitely a good question, as they have a lot of similarities. There are two main differences though, being a Vari-Mu, you’re able to push the Sta-Level harder without getting over compression artifacts. With that, you’re also driving the tube circuit harder, resulting in the ability to produce more color and tone out of the Sta-Level. Speaking generally, LA-2A’s have less color.
Because the Sta-Level has “Recovery” control, this allows you to prevent over compression caused by slow recovery times during large dynamic shifts. This is one weakness of the LA-2A design, as the compressor is not able to respond fast enough during this shifts and can result in unpleasing compression.
If you like the simple control layout of a tube opto but are after slightly more control and more access to rich, tube color, the Sta-Level is one of the best options out there.
From Retro Instruments Inc.
Introduction
Origin
Revisions
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 percent or less from 0-30 dB gain reduction
- Frequency Response
- ± .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
- 2-6BJ6), 1-12AT7, 2-6V6GT, 1-6AL5, 1-OB2, 1-5Y3
- Power Requirements
- Three prong IEC - Switchable 115-230 VAC - 50/60 Hz
- Mounting Requirements
- 3U metal rack 5.25" high, 19" wide, 8" deep
Free 3-Year Warranty
In addition to the standard included manufacturer warranty, virtually all new products carry our exclusive, industry-leading, absolutely free Sound Pure 3-Year Warranty, which includes parts and labor. It's our way of adding real value to the personal touch our small, dedicated team brings to every purchase.
Coverage exclusions live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27. Read the warranty →
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