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Retro Instruments

The Retro Instruments Retro 176 Limiting Amplifier has the largest feature set of its class. <ul> <li>Precision Knob scales for easy recallability </li><li>Continuously variable attack and release time </li><li>Four settings of compression ratio from soft compression to limiting (2:1, 4:1, 8:1, 12:1) </li><li>Wide-Range Sidechain Highpass Filter </li><li>Vocal Asymmetry Tool </li><li>Hard-wire Bypass Switch </li><li>Interstage Transformer Bypass Switch </li><li>High Quality VU Meter switchable between Input, Output and Gain Reduction </li><li>XLR input and output connections </li><li>IEC power connector </li><li>115/230V AC Mains </li><li>Integral tube balance test </li><li>Easy stereo strapping of two or more units </li><li>Selected NOS tubes and components</li></ul>Specifications for the Retro 176 include: <ul> <li>20 dB of available gain reduction </li><li>Signal to noise ratio of greater than 76dB </li><li>Flat frequency response within 0.5dB from 20-20,000Hz and Harmonic Distortion of less than 1% from 0-15dB gain reduction </li></ul>Retro products are built in the USA and include a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Retro Instruments 176
Tube limiting amplifier

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Retro Instruments 176 (Demo Deal)
Tube limiting amplifier

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Retro Instruments 176 Matched Pair - 120V
Matched pair of tube limiters

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Vintage Tube Amplifiers and Custom-Designed Transformers set the soundstage. True Passive Equalization creates Bountiful and Musical Equalization curves. The new RETRO 2A3 is designed as an ultra High-Fidelity Program Equalizer whose sonic benefits go beyond the equalization process. Accurate to the industry-standard Pultec EQ performance, the RETRO 2A3 adds HF boost frequencies in several new sweet spots. Carefully implemented HF boost circuits capture the signature sound of the original passive equalizers. Use these settings to make individual tracks fit in place. Make a vocal shine and add distinct presence. There are many satisfying applications, most notably the stereo mix buss.  A new Subsonic Filter allows you to do peaking low frequency boosts that tame the excessive subsonic energy exhibited in the original design if that’s what you want. Utilizing the interstage transformer, the filter not only reduces the subsonic energy but also provides distinct transformer tonal characteristics for tracking and mixing. The filter has settings of 40 and 90 Hz with a peaking response and sharp cutoff. The 40 Hz setting has no apparent loss of lows as it adds excitement to the 35-40 Hz region that is golden in many listening environments. The smoothing effect is pleasantly apparent throughout the midrange. It is easily switched-out for applications that require tight, accurate low frequency response.  In consideration of the limited real estate in your rack, the RETRO 2A3 packs two EQ channels into one 2U space with surprising freedom of movement, ease of adjustment and familiarity.  Use the two channels for stereo, separately on independent tracks or cascaded for extended equalization possibilities. The channel separation exceeds 70 dB. The RETRO 2A3 passive equalizer circuits do not rely on amplifier feedback, which can cause a harsh and clinical sound in typical active equalizer designs. By incorporating pure passive Capacitor - Inductor based equalization; the RETRO 2A3 sounds so natural and effortless even with extreme boosts and cuts. We also gave special attention to the Pultec-style bass boost/bass cut method that is essential to a powerful bass and kick drum EQ. This involves simultaneous low frequency boosts and lower-mid cuts that can scoop out the mud and add real punch. Quite simply, there are benefits to having the RETRO 2A3 in line without even equalizing, as the tube amplification has it’s own unique musicality. The RETRO 2A3 Dual Channel Tube Program Equalizer provides a very useful palette of colors and textures ready for tracking, mixing and mastering. Features <ul><li>Industry-standard Passive EQ with authentic feel, controls and equalization curves</li><li>Additional HF Boost Frequencies for more precise control</li><li>Easily recallable 100-position knob scales on boost and cut controls </li><li>A ganged interstage-coupled Subsonic High-Pass Filter provides Peaking LF Boosts with alternate tonal characteristics </li><li>Transformer Balanced and fully-floating 600 Ohm Input and Output to eliminate ground-induced hum and noise</li><li>LF Boost Settings of 20, 30, 60 and 100 Hz  </li><li>Complementary LF Cut settings of 20, 30, 60 and 100 Hz</li><li>HF Boost Settings of 1.5 kHz, 3 kHz, 4 kHz, 5 kHz, 6 kHz, 8 kHz, 10 kHz, 12 kHz, 14 kHz and 16 kHz</li><li>Complementary HF Cut Settings of 5 kHz, 10 kHz and 20 kHz</li><li>Vintage Class AB tube amplification for unity-gain make-up</li><li>Equalization Bypass Switches</li><li>Size 2U Height: 19" wide x 3.5" tall x 9" deep</li><li>XLR input and output connections</li><li>IEC power connector</li><li>115/230V 50-60 Hz Switchable AC Mains</li><li>Uses readily available 12AX7(2) and 12AU7(2) electron tubes</li><li>Tube substitutions are possible with internal unity gain calibration and jumper selectable 6 or 12 volt tube configuration </li><li>Design minimizes tube heat generation</li><li>High stability components used throughout</li><li>Steel Chassis built to last </li><li>Manufactured in the USA </li><li>Full factory support</li></ul> Specifications for the Retro 2A3 include: <ul><li>Signal to noise ratio of greater than 76dB</li><li>Channel Separation greater than 70 dB</li><li>Frequency response is flat within 1 dB from 20 Hz-20,000 Hz</li><li>Harmonic Distortion is less than 1% from 20 Hz-20,000 Hz</li></ul>

Retro Instruments 2A3
Dual-channel tube program equalizer

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Retro Instruments 2A3 (Demo Deal)
Dual-channel tube program equalizer

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The Retro Doublewide is a tube compressor module designed from the ground up for the 500 Series. It's authentic Retro compression for the masses. The Doublewide delivers the tube compression sound you expect because it is exactly that. While not precisely like any other tube compressor, the Doublewide methodology takes after the Sta-Level. As such, it excels at processing delicate sources like bass and vocals. It's all Retro and is built with the same quality components in our U.S. shop alongside our other products. The tubes and transformers in a fully complementary push-pull topology deliver sonic characteristics typical of a full sized tube compressor. The Doublewide incorporates four NOS 6BJ6 pentodes in two tube gain stages as well as two high-quality Cinemag transformers.  Input and output are fully floating and transformer balanced for use with line level signals. A hard-wire bypass switch allows for quick evaluation of the compression signature.  Compression attack and recovery times are continuously variable.  Like the Sta-Level and 176, the Doublewide has two timing characteristic modes; Single and Double.  Double mode provides a dynamic program-controlled attack and recovery timing. With these two modes, the Doublewide is versatile in the studio, with full control of weight and punch versus transparency.   The Doublewide is designed to provide the user with years of reliable service. Special circuitry eliminates excess current inrush and component stress when power is applied. Power required is 180 mA (6 watts), which is well within a two-slot power allowance. The stainless steel chassis provides good ventilation to minimize heat build-up. The tubes are self-biased and balanced without the need for user adjustments and there are no internal controls. A meter-zero adjustment is accessible from the side of the unit to compensate for tube variations.  Tube replacement is straightforward and the tubes are readily available. Features: <ul><li>Single channel tube compression in a two-slot 500 Series module</li><li>Continuously variable input and output levels with fixed threshold</li><li>Continuously variable attack and recovery time</li><li>Single and double time-constants</li><li>Fully complementary push-pull signal path</li><li>Cinemag transformer balanced, fully-floating input and output</li><li>Hard-wire bypass switch with gold-plated contacts</li><li>Gold-plated edge card connections</li><li>Stainless steel chassis construction</li><li>Side-accessible meter zero trim</li><li>Uses new-old-stock U.S. tubes</li><li>Authentic U.S.-made Simpson gain reduction meter.</li><li>Hand built and tested in the U.S.</li></ul> Specifications: <ul><li>30dB of available gain reduction</li><li>Signal to noise ratio greater than 76dB</li><li>Flat frequency response within .5 dB from 20-20,000 Hz</li><li>Total harmonic distortion 1% or less from 0-25dB gain reduction</li><li>Input level –15 to +24 dBm 600 Ohm impedance</li><li>Output level –20 to +12 dBm 600 Ohm impedance</li><li>Power consumption 180 mA (6 watts)</li><li>Tube complement 6BJ6 x 4</li></ul>

Retro Instruments Doublewide New!
Single-channel tube compression amplifier for 500 Series

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The Retro Powerstrip recording channel is a high powered "channel strip" or "vintage studio in a box", capturing the tone of a tube mixing desk, Pultec-style tube EQ and British tube compressor all in one compact 2u rack unit.  It has all the right inputs and enough gain for every microphone and instrument you can throw at it.  It has a balanced line level input for pro-interface instruments and for use during mix time.  The performance is purely musical.  It is perfect for use in any size recording studio or on stage. Features <ul><li>Transformer coupled Class-A tube microphone preamplifier with phantom power.</li><li>Industry-standard Passive EQ with authentic feel, controls and equalization curves.</li><li>Classic British variable-mu tube compression.</li><li>Front panel 1/4' instrument jack.</li><li>Rear panel XLR mic and line inputs and line output are fully-floating transformer balanced to eliminate ground-induced hum and noise.</li><li>Interstage-coupled Subsonic High-Pass Filter provides Peaking LF Boosts with alternate tonal characteristics.</li><li>LF Boost Settings of 20, 30, 60 and 100 Hz Complementary LF Cut settings of 20, 30, 60 and 100 Hz</li><li>HF Boost Settings of 1.5 kHz, 3 kHz, 4 kHz, 5 kHz, 6 kHz, 8 kHz, 10 kHz, 12 kHz, 14 kHz and 16 kHz</li><li>Complementary HF Cut Settings of 5 kHz, 10 kHz and 20 kHz</li><li>Six selectable compressor attack/release time-constants.</li><li>90 / 250 Hz compressor high-pass sidechain filter.</li><li>Easily recallable 100-position knob scales.</li><li>The compressor and equalizer can be independently bypassed.</li><li>Phase reversal switch. Front panel meter zero adjustment.</li><li>IEC power inlet with 120/240VAC 50/60Hz power mains standard.</li><li>Ability to use current production and new-old-stock tubes.</li><li>Tube enthusiasts have many options and resulting tone variations.</li><li>Tube changes require no alignment.</li><li>The instrument input loops to a rear panel jack for stage amplifier.</li><li>Rear panel line level XLR output and low-level balanced output for processed stage amplifier.</li><li>Design minimizes tube heat generation</li><li>High stability components used throughout</li><li>Steel Chassis built to last</li><li>Manufactured in the USA</li><li>Full factory support</li></ul>

Retro Instruments Powerstrip
Tube Recording Channel

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The Retro Sta-Level is a replica of the legendary 1956 Gates Sta-Level. The Sta-Level dominated the sound of hit radio in the 1960's. Now these super musical sounding compressors have found their way into today's hits. The Retro Gold Edition celebrates fifty years of the products existence. The Sta-Level uses the coveted 6386 tube in a classic G.E. circuit design. Alternatively, the Gold Edition Sta-Level uses a pair of commonly available 6BJ6 tubes (stock). The customer has the choice to use their own 6386 they provide or the 6BJ6 provided with the purchase of the unit. The choice is yours and the sound is undeniably true to the original either way. 
The original 6386 compressor developed by G.E., utilized a novel program controlled release circuit. The Sta-Level implementation creates density and consistency while minimizing typical compressor side-effects at up to 40dB of gain reduction! The program path is transformer balanced throughout to cancel control-induced distortion. Push pull circuitry with 6V6 output stage provides wide voltage swing for gain control and line output. The result is that the Sta-Level brings a uniquely familiar intimacy, air and warmth to your tracks. 
Revisions to the original design include; Tube balance can be instantly aligned without test equipment; Uses 6386 tube or a pair of 6BJ6 tubes; Two or more Sta-Levels can be coupled together for stereo, surround or sidechain operation; XLR transformer balanced input and output; IEC Power Connector; Hand matched audiophile-grade coupling capacitors; High quality, custom wound transformers used throughout; Internal component safety cover. Specifications <ul><li>Gain Reduction Threshold: Continuously adjustable from +24dBm to -20dBm</li><li>Available Gain Reduction: 40dB</li><li>Total System Gain: 35dB (with standard input and output pads)</li><li>Distortion: 1 percent or less from 0-30 dB gain reduction</li><li>Frequency Response: ± .25dB from 20-20,000 Hz</li><li>Noise: -70dB or better referenced to gain reduction threshold</li><li>Output Level: Continuously adjustable from -40 dBm to +18 dBm</li><li>Input Impedance: Accepts low impedance active or transformer balanced 0-600 Ohms</li><li>Output Impedance: 600 Ohm transformer balanced, terminated and resistive pad coupled</li><li>Tube Complement: 2-6BJ6), 1-12AT7, 2-6V6GT, 1-6AL5, 1-OB2, 1-5Y3</li><li>Power Requirements: Three prong IEC - Switchable 115-230 VAC - 50/60 Hz</li><li>Mounting Requirements: 3U metal rack 5.25" high, 19" wide, 8" deep </li></ul>

Retro Instruments Sta-Level
Gold Edition replica of the legendary 1956 Gates Sta-Level tube compressiona amplifier

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The Retro Sta-Level is a replica of the legendary 1956 Gates Sta-Level. The Sta-Level dominated the sound of hit radio in the 1960's. Now these super musical sounding compressors have found their way into today's hits. The Retro Gold Edition celebrates fifty years of the products existence. The Sta-Level uses the coveted 6386 tube in a classic G.E. circuit design. Alternatively, the Gold Edition Sta-Level uses a pair of commonly available 6BJ6 tubes (stock). The customer has the choice to use their own 6386 they provide or the 6BJ6 provided with the purchase of the unit. The choice is yours and the sound is undeniably true to the original either way. 
The original 6386 compressor developed by G.E., utilized a novel program controlled release circuit. The Sta-Level implementation creates density and consistency while minimizing typical compressor side-effects at up to 40dB of gain reduction! The program path is transformer balanced throughout to cancel control-induced distortion. Push pull circuitry with 6V6 output stage provides wide voltage swing for gain control and line output. The result is that the Sta-Level brings a uniquely familiar intimacy, air and warmth to your tracks. 
Revisions to the original design include; Tube balance can be instantly aligned without test equipment; Uses 6386 tube or a pair of 6BJ6 tubes; Two or more Sta-Levels can be coupled together for stereo, surround or sidechain operation; XLR transformer balanced input and output; IEC Power Connector; Hand matched audiophile-grade coupling capacitors; High quality, custom wound transformers used throughout; Internal component safety cover.

Retro Instruments Sta-Level Matched Pair - 120V
Matched pair of tube limiters

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