The Stam Audio SA-609 MK2 combines two Diode- Bridge 33609 compressors into one. The Stam SA-609 Mk2 retains the same circuit, transformers and discrete BA-440 cards making it an identical replica on the vintage metal knob British 33609 and it also incorporates the modern and brighter sounding 33609 JD version at the twist of a knob as well as a Dry-Wet blend control.
The 33609 was an evolution of several previous British creations and found its way into the mixing and mastering chain of studios worldwide. Noted mainly for its ability to glue elements of a mix together, it was also prized for its ability to add colour compression, or transparent limiting, depending on the user’s desire.
Affectionately known by many as the “Metal Knob” compressor, the 33609 utilised a diode-bridge based topology, and spawned several revisions since its inception in 1969. Our Stam SA-609 Mk2 strictly follows the original “Metal Knob” schematic with the use of BA440 cards and Carnhill transformers that reproduce the characteristics of the original Marinairs used on the initial version and also adds the modern version at the twist of a knob.
High quality stepped controls allow for easy recall of settings and, and when used for mastering duties provided a higher degree of precision.
With the same hand wired transformers and feedback circuit as the classic Neve 2254, the Stam SA-609 Mk2 is the ideal compressor for the stereo bus on audio mixing and mastering duties, as well as broadcasting applications.
The Stam SA-609 Mk2 offers a transparent compression with its lowest 1.5:1 ratio setting or can be slammed up to 6:1 to get as much attitude as you desire. Its uses are not limited to the master bus. The original was commonly used on drums, vocals, pianos, and other acoustic instruments due to its ability to tame even the most complex source, and the Stam SA-609 Mk2 replicates this perfectly.
Overall compression is displayed by the front panel with vu meters. Each compression channel has threshold, release, makeup-gain, and ratio controls. The makeup-gain circuit is great for adding a little more grit and warmth to any source and can be used even if no compression is required.
Each channel is also equipped with a brick-wall limiter that has threshold and recovery controls, which is placed after the compression circuit. If you wish, the limiter can be bypassed completely for applications where limiting is not necessary.
For complete flexibility, the Stam SA-609 Mk2 can be used in linked stereo mode, or the channels can be separated for use as a dual mono compressor. Dual mono mode is ideal for a mix that has a lot of dynamics between the right and left channels.
