Do you have a question about the Warm Audio WA76 and is the answer not in the manual?
Instructions for registering the product online to ensure warranty support.
A message from Warm Audio about the WA76 and analog recording.
Details the product warranty terms, conditions, and limitations for defects.
Information on obtaining repair services for units outside the warranty period.
Overview of the WA76 compressor, its design heritage, and core features.
Controls the input signal level and compression threshold.
Adjusts the final output signal level after gain reduction.
Sets the time for the compressor to respond to incoming signals.
Determines the time for the compressor to return to its uncompressed state.
Sets the severity of gain reduction, with options for limiter-like behavior.
Controls the front panel meter display (Gain Reduction or Output Level).
Rear panel control for calibrating the VU meter.
Provides -23dB attenuation for high-level input signals.
Details balanced XLR/TRS inputs and outputs for signal routing.
Specifies the required 24V AC power adapter for operation.
Summarizes impedance, frequency response, THD, and signal-to-noise ratio.
Diagram showing a typical signal chain connection via XLR.
Diagram illustrating the WA76 used as an insert effect with a 1/4" cable.
A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.
A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.
Instructions for registering the product online to ensure warranty support.
A message from Warm Audio about the WA76 and analog recording.
Details the product warranty terms, conditions, and limitations for defects.
Information on obtaining repair services for units outside the warranty period.
Overview of the WA76 compressor, its design heritage, and core features.
Controls the input signal level and compression threshold.
Adjusts the final output signal level after gain reduction.
Sets the time for the compressor to respond to incoming signals.
Determines the time for the compressor to return to its uncompressed state.
Sets the severity of gain reduction, with options for limiter-like behavior.
Controls the front panel meter display (Gain Reduction or Output Level).
Rear panel control for calibrating the VU meter.
Provides -23dB attenuation for high-level input signals.
Details balanced XLR/TRS inputs and outputs for signal routing.
Specifies the required 24V AC power adapter for operation.
Summarizes impedance, frequency response, THD, and signal-to-noise ratio.
Diagram showing a typical signal chain connection via XLR.
Diagram illustrating the WA76 used as an insert effect with a 1/4" cable.
A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.
A blank template for recording and recalling WA76 settings.
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.
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.
The front panel of the WA76 provides several controls for shaping the compression:
The rear panel offers additional 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.
| Product type | Compressor & gate |
|---|---|
| Frequency range | 20 - 20000 Hz |
| Channels quantity | 1 channels |
| Compressor attack time | 20 - 800 ms |
| Compressor release time | 50 - 1000 ms |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) + noise | 0.4 % |
| On/off switch | Yes |
| Product color | Black |
| Rack capacity | 2U |
| Housing material | Steel |