WA76A - Audio Compressor Warm Audio - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Discrete analog FET audio compressor
Brand	Warm Audio
Model	WA76-A (mono) / WA76-A2 (stereo)
Category	Audio compressor
Form Factor	2U 19-inch rack
Power Supply	100-230 V AC, 50/60 Hz, universal with automatic voltage detection
Number of Channels	1 (WA76-A) or 2 (WA76-A2)
Transformers	CineMag USA: O-12 (input) and 5002 (output)
Input Impedance	Selectable 600 Ω or 10 kΩ
Attack	20 μs – 800 μs
Release	50 ms – 1.1 s
Ratio	Adjustable (ratio not specified)
Frequency Response	±1 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Total Gain	58 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)	84 dB
Distortion (THD+N)	-58 dB (at -18 dBu)
Inputs / Outputs	Balanced XLR and TRS
Special Features	100% Dry/Wet Mix, 30-300 Hz sidechain high-pass filter, stereo link, external sidechain insert, 'All-Buttons-In' mode, true and active bypass
Maintenance and Cleaning	Clean only with a dry cloth. Have any repairs done by qualified personnel.
General Information	Manufactured in Austin, Texas, USA. 1-year warranty (registration within 14 days). Out-of-warranty service available.

Frequently Asked Questions - WA76A Warm Audio

What transformers are used in the WA76-A?

The WA76-A uses CineMag USA O-12 input and 5002 output transformers, built to Reichenbach Engineering specifications.

How do I adjust the input impedance?

Use the input impedance selector on the front panel: 600 Ω for traditional analog equipment, 10 kΩ for modern audio interfaces.

What is the 'All-Buttons-In' mode?

This mode pushes all ratio buttons simultaneously, producing an experimental sound and a hard limiter effect, typical of vintage compressors.

How do I use the sidechain high-pass filter?

Set the filter from 30 to 300 Hz to prevent low frequencies from triggering compression while keeping the full signal audible.

Can I use the WA76-A in stereo?

Yes, thanks to the stereo link function. For the WA76-A (mono) model, you can chain two units via the stereo link inputs. The WA76-A2 model is stereo built-in.

How do I bypass?

Use the True Bypass switch for a complete circuit bypass. Setting the attack control to 'Off' activates an active bypass with no compression but with the preamp.

What is the warranty period?

The warranty is one year from the date of purchase for the original buyer. It is non-transferable and requires registration within 14 days at www.warmaudio.com.

Where is the WA76-A manufactured?

The WA76-A is hand-assembled and tested in Austin, Texas, USA by skilled technicians.

What if I have a problem out of warranty?

Warm Audio offers a paid repair service. Contact them via www.warmaudio.com for more information.

How do I clean the WA76-A?

Clean the device only with a dry cloth. Do not use liquid or abrasive cleaners. For any repairs, have the device serviced by qualified personnel.

USER MANUAL WA76A Warm Audio

WA76-A [SINGLE-CHANNEL]

WA76-A2 [DUAL-CHANNEL]

THANK YOU!

Thank you for purchasing the Warm Audio WA76-A / WA76-A2 FET compressor. We feel this product line offers the best in terms of sound, function, and vibe from the classic era of analog recording. We don't cut corners when it comes to what goes into our products, and the WA76-A family of compressors are no exception. The WA76-A compressors deliver that classic vintage-voiced, "blue stripe" sound. Every WA76-A compressor uses premium, large-core input & output transformers from CineMag USA, built from the same data/spec from the original components made by Reichenbach Engineering. Combined with the transformers are premium poly film capacitors, premium resistors, and a vintage-voiced preamp stage. These key components complete a circuit that cuts no corners in delivering an authentic vintage 76-style "blue stripe"-style compression experience. This iconic circuit helped define the studio sound of artists and producers including Led Zeppelin, Jack White, Chris Stapleton, The Beatles, Chris Lord-Alge and many more. The same dynamic control with true analog grit is used by the most elite engineers and musicians today to create timeless recordings. Every single WA76-A and WA76-A2 compressor is carefully hand-tested and inspected by trained technicians with a passion for making music in Austin, TX USA.

Bryce Young

President

Warm Audio

Austin, Texas USA

REGISTER YOUR WA76-A OR WA76-A2 PRODUCT!

Before we begin, please take the time to visit www.warmaudio.com to register your product. To ensure you receive proper and uninterrupted warranty support for your product, please register your unit within 14 days from purchase.

WARRANTY STATEMENT

Warm Audio warranties this product to be free from defect in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase, for the original purchaser to whom this equipment is registered. This warranty is non-transferrable.

This warranty is void in the event of damage incurred from unauthorized service to this unit, or from electrical or mechanical modification to this unit. This warranty does not cover damage resulting from abuse, accidental damage, misuse, improper electrical conditions such as mis-wiring, incorrect voltage or frequency, unstable power, disconnection from earth ground (for products requiring a 3 pin, grounded power cable), or from exposure to hostile environmental conditions such as moisture, humidity, smoke, fire, sand or other debris, and extreme temperatures.

Warm Audio will, at its sole discretion, repair or replace this product in a timely manner. This limited warranty extends only to products determined to be defective and does not cover incidental costs such as equipment rental, loss of revenue, etc. Please visit us at www.warmaudio.com for more information on your warranty, or to request warranty service.

This warranty applies to products sold in the United States of America. For warranty information in any other country, please refer to your local Warm Audio distributor. This warranty provides specific legal rights, which may vary from state to state. Depending on the state in which you live, you may have rights in addition to those covered in this statement. Please refer to your state laws or see your local Warm Audio retailer for more information.

NON-WARRANTY SERVICE

If you have a defective unit that is outside of our warranty period or conditions; we are still here for you and can get your unit working again for a modest service fee. Please visit us at www.warmaudio.com to contact us about setting up a repair or for more information.

With proper care, your Warm Audio gear should last a lifetime and provide a lifetime of enjoyment. We believe the best advertisement we can have is a properly working unit being put to great use. Let's work together to make it happen.

NOW LETS GET STARTED!

The WA76-A / WA76-A2 accurately reproduces one of the fastest and most powerful studio compressors of all time (with one or two channels) known for having an extra "grabby" attack, powerful dynamic control, and vintage analog grit. Using premium and custom components like O-12 (input) and 5002 (output) transformers from CineMag, WA76-A achieves authentic 76 "blue stripe"-style compression, known for its gritty preamp stage with unmistakably analog character. Added modern controls to achieve parallel compression, active & true bypass, selectable input impedance, and sidechain flexibility make WA76-A an ideal choice for modern recording workflows that require vintage tone shaping. WA76-A recreates the legendary tone & control of the vintage 76-style compression used in studios by artists like Jack White, The Beatles, David Bowie, Led Zeppelin and many more.

The information contained in this manual is written to help you quickly get started using your WA76-A / WA76-A2 compressor.

FEATURES, CONTROLS, & TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Classic Studio Compression With True Analog Grit

The WA76-A / WA76-A2 is a faithful recreation of the vintage 76 "blue stripe"-style FET studio compressor with added features to meet modern recording workflows. The WA76-A / WA76-A2 is a faithful recreation of the vintage 76 "blue stripe"-style FET studio compressor with added features to meet modern recording workflows.

Critical Classic Controls + Bonus Modern Add-Ons

WA76-A delivers an uncompromised vintage circuit design with all of the traditional 76-style compression controls. Added features deliver unprecedented value for engineers and musicians seeking adaptable gear that fits into modern recording workflows. A Note on WA76-A2: WA76-A2 is a stereo unit and has different additional features designed to provide optimal value in a stereo unit.

Premium Components & Accurate Blue Stripe-Style Circuitry

Just like in the vintage 76-style compressors from revision "A" to D", the WA76-A uses custom large-core, CineMag input & output transformers. WA76-A uses premium poly film capacitors, premium resistors, and a vintage-voiced preamp stage. These key components complete a circuit that cuts no corners in delivering an authentic vintage 76-style "blue stripe"-style compression experience.

Hand-Tested In Austin, TX Hand-Tested In Austin, TX

Like all Warm Audio gear, WA76-A is meticulously hand-tested and inspected by trained technicians with a passion for making music in Austin, TX USA.

1. Input Impedance Selector

Use the standard 600Ω input impedance to connect analog mic pres, equalizers, and other traditional analog hardware. Select 10k input impedance to better match modern audio interface specifications, like running tracks out of the interface for external analog signal processing.

2. True Bypass Switch

Bypass the entire unit including compression and amplification while allowing signal to pass through to other gear.

3. Input Gain/Threshold

The Input control sets the signal level entering the WA76-A / WA76-A2 and determines the threshold (the level at which compression begins). Increasing the input level results in stronger limiting or compression.

4. Output

The Output control adjusts the final signal level coming out of the WA76-A / WA76-A2. Once you have dialed in the amount of limiting or compression using the Input, the Output knob compensates for any gain lost in the compression process and acts as makeup gain. To properly set and monitor output level, press the +4 or +8 Meter button and adjust the Output knob as needed.

5. Attack

The attack adjusts how quickly the compressor responds to (attenuates) audio input signal level that exceeds the threshold. When set to "off", the WA76-A / WA76-A2 is effectively in active bypass mode, with the signal passing through both the input and output sections of the compressor without compression applied..

6. Release

The release controls the time it takes for the compressor to return to its normal state after the input audio signal level falls below the threshold.

7. Ratio

Determines the degree of compression applied to the signal once it exceeds the threshold.

8.VU Meter

Displays the level of the input or output signal, or gain reduction for monitoring and visual reference.

9. Meter Setting

The function of the four buttons (from top to bottom) are as follows: GR - displays gain reduction amount on the meter. +8 - 0VU corresponds to +8dBu of output level. +4 - 0VU corresponds to +4dBu of output level. Engaging the OFF button powers off the entire unit, preventing audio signal from passing through the WA76-A / WA76-A2.

10. Dry/Wet Mix

This control determines what percentage of the signal exiting the compressor is compressed/effected and what percentage is dry/unaffected. When set to 100% counterclockwise, the signal is 100% "wet" and is completely compressed. At 100% clockwise, the compressor is 100% "dry" and acts as an active bypass without the signal going through the compressor's preamp stage. The setting can also be turned off to match the exact behavior of a vintage 76-style compressor.

11. Sidechain High Pass Filter

A selectable sidechain high pass filter from 30Hz - 300Hz allows the user to prevent frequencies below the set filter threshold from activating the compressor. While the entire frequency range remains audible and influenced by the compressor, this technique helps avoid uneven dynamics and excessive low-end compression if that's not the desired effect.

12. Stereo Link

Engages both stereo linking inputs on the back panel.

13. External Sidechain

Engages sidechain send and return connections on the back panel.

14. VU-Meter Trim

When the meter is in gain reduction mode (GR), adjust this knob to set the needle's resting position at 0dB to calibrate for accurate gain reduction measurement.

1. Balanced XLR & TRS Inputs & Outputs

Balanced inputs and outputs are provided on an XLR and 14 TRS connection for convenience.

2. Stereo Link Inputs - 1 & 2

Daisy-chain additional WA76-A compressors. When in use, both channels work independently, but their sidechains are linked. In this case, the loudest channel will dictate both channel's behavior.

3. Sidechain Inserts - In & 2

Insert EQ or audio from another device to control the sidechain on the WA76-A. The audio coming in on the insert will dictate when the compressor applies compression.

4. IEC Cable Power Connector

100-230v IEC Inlet universal power supply connection. Works worldwide, automatically adjusting to local voltage.

CONTROLS - FRONT PANEL [WA76-A2: DUAL-CHANNEL]

Any shared specifications or controls from the single channel model will simply be labeled below the WA76-A2 product images. For detailed descriptions of any shared feature or functionality, please refer to the descriptions found in the WA76-A (single-channel) technical specs section above. Any distinct 2-channel features will be explained in detail below.

1. Input Impedance Selector

2. True Bypass Switch

3. Input Gain/Threshold

4. Output

5. Attack

6. Release

7. Ratio

8.VU Meter

1. Meter Setting

2. Dry/Wet Mix

3. Sidechain High Pass Filter

12. Operational Mode Selector:

Select between three 2-channel operating modes. Stereo linked: Both channels work independently, but their sidechains are linked. In that case the loudest channel will dictate both channel's behavior. Primary-to-secondary: The left channel's sidechain only will dictate how both channels operate. Dual-Mono: Each channel operates independently, with all controls operating on program material being sent to its own channel.

1. VU-Meter Trim

1. Balanced XLR & TRS Inputs

Balanced inputs for channels 1 and 2 are provided on an XLR and 14 TRS connection for convenience.

2. Balanced XLR & TRS Outputs

Balanced outputs for channels 1 and 2 are provided on an XLR and 14 TRS connection for convenience.

3. IEC Cable Power Connector

100-230v IEC Inlet universal power supply connection. Works worldwide, automatically adjusting to local voltage.

RECORDING INTERFACE

Basic Audio Signal Chain

In this example, a microphone is connected to a WA73-EQ input, which sends signal into the WA76-A compressor via a balanced XLR patch cable, which feeds in the LINE LEVEL input of your recording interface/recorder.

Note: it is important to use a line level input on your recording device as opposed to a microphone or instrument level input.

WA76-A2

Routing Audio For Analog Processing

In this example, two balanced TRS cables are connected to the outputs of an audio interface, which sends signal into the WA76-A2 compressor via balanced TRS patch cables. The WA76-A2 then feeds audio at LINE level to balanced TRS inputs of your recording interface/recorder.

Note: it is important to use a line level input on your recording device as opposed to a microphone or instrument level input.

SPECIFICATIONS

Note: Most specifications and component counts listed are "per-channel"

100% Analog Discrete FET Compressor
- Faithful Recreation Of The Vintage "Blue Stripe" FET Compressor With Added Recording Features
- VU Meter Options: Gain Reduction | +8dB Output | +4dB Output | "Off" Powers off unit
100-230v IEC Inlet Universal Power Supply
Class-A Line-Level Output Amplifier
100% Discrete Audio Signal Path Using 600Ω Input Impedance Attenuator
- Selectable 10kΩ Input Impedance To Better Match Modern Audio Interface Specifications
100% Dry-Wet Mix Control
Variable Sidechain High Pass Filter: 30 - 300Hz, 12dB/Octave
- 1/4'' Stereo Link & External Sidechain Access
Active Bypass For Running Unit As Line Amplifier & True Bypass Option For A/B Comparisons
- 2U 19" Rackmount Chassis
- Utilizes Premium O-12 Input & 5002 Output Transformers From CineMag USA
- Vintage-Spec Attack & Release: Attack = 20 μS - 800 | Release: 50 mS - 1.1 Second
- "All-Buttons-In" Setting For Experimental & Hard-Limiter Tones
Frequency Response: ± 1 dB 20Hz - 20kHz
Balanced XLR & TRS Inputs & Outputs
Total Amplifier Gain: 58dB
- Signal-To-Noise Ratio (SNR): 84dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): -58dB (at -18dBu)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions - All of the safety and operating instructions should be read before this product is operated.
2. Keep these instructions - The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed all warnings - All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow all instructions - All operating and use instructions should be followed.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water - The appliance should not be used near water or moisture - for example, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool, and the like.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at the plugs, convenience receptacles, and at the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart or rack is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. CAUTION: These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so.

FRANÇAIS

MERCI!

ENREGISTREZ VOTRE PRODUIT WA76-A OU WA76-A2!

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© 2024 Warm Audio™ LLC.

Austin, Texas USA | www.warmaudio.com