Warm Audio WA76-D Single-Channel Discrete FET Compressor

Warm Audio WA76-D Single-Channel Discrete FET Compressor

The WARM Audio WA76-D is a single-channel FET compressor/limiter that faithfully recreates the iconic 1176 Revision-D, combining classic 76-style controls with modern enhancements for the ultimate in dynamic control and analog tone. Known for its fast attack, clean voicing, and low noise, the WA76-D is perfect for adding polish to vocals, instruments, and mixes, providing dynamic control with rich analog warmth.

Designed to deliver the fast, responsive compression characteristic of the original Revision-D 1176, the WA76-D offers powerful features for both vintage and modern recording workflows. It includes stereo linking, a wet/dry mix for parallel compression, external side-chain access, and a variable side-chain high-pass filter for fine-tuning your compression. The unit also features selectable active or true bypass modes, allowing you to use the WA76-D as a line amplifier or easily perform A/B comparisons. With CineMag input and output transformers, a classic analog VU meter, and a universal power supply, the WA76-D delivers the classic 76 compression with a modern twist.

The WARM Audio WA76-D combines the legendary vintage 1176 Revision-D sound with modern features for enhanced flexibility and control. Whether you’re using it on vocals, instruments, or the stereo bus, the WA76-D offers the perfect blend of fast, responsive compression and rich analog tone that will elevate any recording session.

Key Features

• Based on 1176 Revision-D: Faithfully recreates the fast, low-noise compression and rich analog tone of the Revision-D 1176 compressor.
• 100% Discrete Analog Signal Path: Ensures an authentic, clean analog sound with low distortion and high dynamic control.
• Stereo Linking: Allows you to link multiple WA76-D units for stereo applications or multi-unit setups.
• External Side-Chain Access: Easily integrate external FX or processing into your compression signal chain for greater flexibility.
• Dry/Wet Mix for Parallel Compression: Achieve parallel compression by blending the dry signal with the wet (compressed) signal for added dynamic control.
• Variable Side-Chain High-Pass Filter: Adjust between 30 to 300 Hz (12 dB per octave) to refine the compression response, especially on low-end-heavy sources.
• Active or True Bypass: Use the active bypass to run the unit as a line amplifier or engage true bypass for easy A/B comparisons.
• Adjustable Analog VU Meter: Track compression levels and output with the classic analog VU meter, with options for gain reduction, +8 dB, or +4 dB output readings.
• CineMag Transformers: Custom large-core O-12 input and 5002 output transformers deliver rich analog tone with vintage character, just like the original 1176.

Technical Specifications

Compressor Type: Single-channel, analog FET compressor/limiter
Compression Ratios: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1 (All-buttons-in for hard-limited tone)
VU Meter Options: Gain Reduction | +8 dB Output | +4 dB Output | Off
Impedance: 600Ω input impedance, selectable 10kΩ input impedance for modern interfaces
Sidechain High-Pass Filter: 30 to 300 Hz, 12 dB per octave
Dry/Wet Mix Control: Yes, for parallel compression
Attack Time: 20 µs to 800 µs
Release Time: 50 ms to 1.1 sec
Power Supply: 100 to 230V IEC inlet, universal power supply
Bypass: Active bypass for line amplification, true bypass option for A/B comparisons
Dimensions: 2 RU 19" rackmount chassis
Weight: 10 lbs
Inputs/Outputs: Balanced XLR and TRS inputs and outputs
Transformers: Premium CineMag O-12 input and 5002 output transformers
Warranty: Hand-tested in Austin, TX with quality control for reliable performance