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Warm Audio WA76 - User Manual

Warm Audio WA76
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WA76
DISCRETE COMPRESSOR
© 2016 Warm Audio
TM
LLC.
Liberty Hill, Texas USA | www.warmaudio.com
Revision 1.1
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Summary

Product Registration and Welcome

Register Your WA76

Instructions for registering the product online to ensure warranty support.

Welcome Message

A message from Warm Audio about the WA76 and analog recording.

Warranty Information

Warranty Statement

Details the product warranty terms, conditions, and limitations for defects.

Non-Warranty Service

Information on obtaining repair services for units outside the warranty period.

Getting Started

Introduction to the WA76

Overview of the WA76 compressor, its design heritage, and core features.

Technical Specifications: Front Panel

Input Knob

Controls the input signal level and compression threshold.

Output Knob

Adjusts the final output signal level after gain reduction.

Attack Knob

Sets the time for the compressor to respond to incoming signals.

Technical Specifications: Front Panel Controls

Release Knob

Determines the time for the compressor to return to its uncompressed state.

Ratio Selection

Sets the severity of gain reduction, with options for limiter-like behavior.

Meter Functions

Controls the front panel meter display (Gain Reduction or Output Level).

Technical Specifications: Back Panel

Meter Adjust Control

Rear panel control for calibrating the VU meter.

Input Pad Switch

Provides -23dB attenuation for high-level input signals.

Connectivity: Inputs & Outputs

Details balanced XLR/TRS inputs and outputs for signal routing.

AC Power Connection

Specifies the required 24V AC power adapter for operation.

Detailed Technical Specifications Summary

Key Performance Metrics

Summarizes impedance, frequency response, THD, and signal-to-noise ratio.

Hookup Diagrams

Example: Mic Preamp to WA76 to Interface

Diagram showing a typical signal chain connection via XLR.

Hookup Diagrams

Example: WA76 as Insert

Diagram illustrating the WA76 used as an insert effect with a 1/4" cable.

Recall Sheets

Setting Recall Template

A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.

Recall Sheets

Setting Recall Template

A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.

Summary

Product Registration and Welcome

Register Your WA76

Instructions for registering the product online to ensure warranty support.

Welcome Message

A message from Warm Audio about the WA76 and analog recording.

Warranty Information

Warranty Statement

Details the product warranty terms, conditions, and limitations for defects.

Non-Warranty Service

Information on obtaining repair services for units outside the warranty period.

Getting Started

Introduction to the WA76

Overview of the WA76 compressor, its design heritage, and core features.

Technical Specifications: Front Panel

Input Knob

Controls the input signal level and compression threshold.

Output Knob

Adjusts the final output signal level after gain reduction.

Attack Knob

Sets the time for the compressor to respond to incoming signals.

Technical Specifications: Front Panel Controls

Release Knob

Determines the time for the compressor to return to its uncompressed state.

Ratio Selection

Sets the severity of gain reduction, with options for limiter-like behavior.

Meter Functions

Controls the front panel meter display (Gain Reduction or Output Level).

Technical Specifications: Back Panel

Meter Adjust Control

Rear panel control for calibrating the VU meter.

Input Pad Switch

Provides -23dB attenuation for high-level input signals.

Connectivity: Inputs & Outputs

Details balanced XLR/TRS inputs and outputs for signal routing.

AC Power Connection

Specifies the required 24V AC power adapter for operation.

Detailed Technical Specifications Summary

Key Performance Metrics

Summarizes impedance, frequency response, THD, and signal-to-noise ratio.

Hookup Diagrams

Example: Mic Preamp to WA76 to Interface

Diagram showing a typical signal chain connection via XLR.

Hookup Diagrams

Example: WA76 as Insert

Diagram illustrating the WA76 used as an insert effect with a 1/4" cable.

Recall Sheets

Setting Recall Template

A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.

Recall Sheets

Setting Recall Template

A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.

Overview

The Warm Audio WA76 is a discrete compressor, a faithful reproduction of the classic '76 style compressor, specifically the revision D, which is widely regarded as one of the best and most popular versions. This device is designed to offer the sound, function, and vibe of classic analog recording gear at an accessible price point, without compromising on quality or design parameters.

Function Description

The WA76 functions as a limiting amplifier, capable of both compression and limiting. It processes audio signals to reduce dynamic range, making loud parts quieter and bringing up the level of softer parts, resulting in a more consistent and controlled sound. The unit utilizes high-quality custom input and output transformers made by Cinemag Transformers USA, and features an all-discrete, Class A signal path with through-hole component topology, hand-built for optimal performance.

The compressor is designed to deliver crisp, punchy results on various audio sources, including drum tracks, vocal tracks, and bass tracks. It is capable of reproducing the legendary 'All Buttons In' mode, also known as 'British Mode' or the 'Four Button Trick,' which is a unique and aggressive compression characteristic highly sought after for its distinct sound, particularly on drums.

Usage Features

The front panel of the WA76 provides several controls for shaping the compression:

  • Input Knob: This control determines the level of the signal entering the WA76 and simultaneously sets the compression threshold. Turning the knob higher increases both the input level and the amount of limiting or compression applied.
  • Output Knob: After achieving the desired amount of compression with the Input control, the Output knob is used to adjust the final output level of the signal leaving the WA76, allowing for gain makeup to compensate for any level lost during gain reduction.
  • Attack Knob: This knob adjusts the time it takes for the WA76 to react to an incoming signal and begin compressing. The attack time is adjustable from 20 microseconds (very fast) to 800 microseconds (slower). Even at its slowest setting, the WA76 maintains a faster attack time compared to some other compressor types, such as optical or variable mu. A very fast attack can sometimes make a recording sound less natural or "open."
  • Release Knob: This control sets the time it takes for the WA76 to return to its initial uncompressed level after the signal falls below the threshold. The release time can be adjusted from 50 milliseconds to 1100 milliseconds (1.1 seconds). If the release time is too fast, audible "pumping" or "breathing" can occur due to rapid background noise restoration. Conversely, a release time that is too slow might cause compression to persist into softer sections of a recording where it's not needed, making those sections difficult to hear.
  • Ratio Buttons: Four buttons determine the severity of the gain reduction. Ratios such as 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, and 20:1 are available. A higher ratio means that a larger increase in input signal level will result in only a small increase in output level. True to the classic design, higher ratio settings also raise the compression threshold. For example, at 20:1, more of the signal's 'body' remains uncompressed, while transients above the higher fixed threshold are more drastically compressed. Higher ratios (12:1 or 20:1) cause the WA76 to act more as a limiter.
    • 'All Buttons In' Mode: This legendary mode is achieved by pressing all four ratio buttons simultaneously until they latch. This can require some practice due to the mechanical nature of the switches. This mode results in an aggressive and unique compression curve, often characterized by drastic plateaus in attack and release, and more audible distortion or 'overdrive.' Initial transients may come through loudly, followed by heavy compression that can create a 'sucking' effect as the compressor releases. In this mode, the meter function may "peg out" and not provide accurate readings, which is normal and will not harm the unit. At least one ratio button must be engaged for the unit to function; otherwise, it will eventually stop passing audio.
  • Meter Buttons: These four buttons control the unit's power (on/off) and determine what the front panel VU meter displays. The meter can show either the amount of gain reduction (GR) or the compressor's output level at +8 dBm or +4 dBm. Selecting "+8" means a meter reading of 0 corresponds to +8 dBm at the rear outputs, while "+4" means 0 corresponds to +4 dBm. The "OFF" switch powers down the WA76.

The rear panel offers additional features:

  • Meter Adjust: A trim pot on the rear panel allows for calibration of the VU meter. This is done by connecting power, setting all four front panel knobs to 12 o'clock, ensuring the pad button is not engaged, and no audio cables are connected. With the ratio set to '4' and meter select to 'GR,' the trim pot is adjusted until the needle rests at '0'. Recalibration may be necessary after extended periods or physical movement.
  • Input Pad: This switch, located near the inputs, lowers the incoming signal by -23dB when engaged. It is generally not needed for normal operation but is useful when using high-gain preamps without output attenuation or with sources producing extremely loud transients (e.g., snare drum). It provides greater flexibility for the Input control when feeding a loud line-level signal.
  • Inputs: Two balanced inputs are provided: one TRS and one XLR. These allow connection of various line-level sources, such as preamps like the Warm Audio WA12 and TB12. Both inputs can be used simultaneously, but it's important to note that unwanted noise may occur if one source is not actively carrying a signal. For unbalanced operation, a TS (tip/sleeve) ¼ cable should be used.
  • Outputs: Two balanced outputs are provided: one TRS and one XLR. For unbalanced operation, a TS (tip/sleeve) ¼ cable should be used.
  • AC Power: The WA76 uses a 24V AC, .4 amp power transformer, and Warm Audio recommends using the provided transformer.

Maintenance Features

Warm Audio provides a one-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for the original registered purchaser. This warranty is non-transferrable and is void if damage results from unauthorized service, electrical or mechanical modification, abuse, accidental damage, misuse, improper electrical conditions (e.g., mis-wiring, incorrect voltage/frequency, unstable power, lack of earth ground), or exposure to hostile environmental conditions (e.g., moisture, humidity, smoke, fire, sand, debris, extreme temperatures).

Warm Audio will repair or replace defective products at its sole discretion. The warranty covers products sold in the United States; for other countries, customers should refer to their local Warm Audio distributor.

For units outside the warranty period or conditions, Warm Audio offers non-warranty service for a modest fee. Customers can visit www.warmaudio.com to arrange repairs. The company emphasizes that with proper care, the WA76 should provide a lifetime of enjoyment.

Warm Audio WA76 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Product typeCompressor & gate
Frequency range20 - 20000 Hz
Channels quantity1 channels
Compressor attack time20 - 800 ms
Compressor release time50 - 1000 ms
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) + noise0.4 %
On/off switchYes
Product colorBlack
Rack capacity2U
Housing materialSteel

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