Stam Audio SA-78T Dual Peak Limiter

The Stam Audio SA-78T+ is a faithful yet enhanced recreation of the revered UREI 1178 stereo compressor, long regarded as a go-to tool by engineers for overheads, acoustic guitars, room mics, backing vocals and parallel drum mixes. While the original UREI 1178 built its reputation on delivering powerful stereo dynamics control, it had a few limitations that restricted its broader use in mix bus applications. The Stam Audio SA-78T+ addresses these directly while maintaining the signature tone of the original.

To overcome the lack of a slower attack time that hindered the 1178’s suitability for bus compression, the Stam Audio SA-78T+ incorporates the highly sought-after super slow 15ms attack time from the 1176AE. This adjustment enables the unit to handle drum and mix bus duties with far greater flexibility, all while preserving the vintage tone and response. The addition of a five-position sidechain high-pass filter, lifted from the SA-4000, further modernises the Stam Audio SA-78T+ by improving bass handling in today’s low-end heavy productions.

For those seeking additional sonic character, the optional SA-78 Iron MOD reintroduces the UTC 0-12 input transformer, once featured on the classic 1176 Rev A, D and F revisions. This transformer adds a rich harmonic signature and enhanced low-end, offering a tonal palette not available on later IC-based revisions. With a simple front-panel ‘Iron’ switch, users can easily engage this classic transformer sound when desired. The Iron MOD is available as an optional upgrade.

Further enhancing its usefulness in a modern studio, the Stam Audio SA-78T+ includes a dry/wet blend control for easy parallel compression. This is especially effective when paired with the slower attack settings for precise drum bus control. Additional features include true bypass and gain reduction bypass modes, allowing users to pass signal through the unit purely for its analogue coloration, without compression.

Built entirely by hand in Chile, the Stam Audio SA-78T+ features top-shelf components including Carnhill output transformers from the UK, Vishay capacitors, Alpha potentiometers, custom VU meters and carbon comp resistors—all chosen to match the tone and reliability of the original design. Every unit is meticulously assembled and tested to ensure it not only sounds like a vintage UREI but also delivers the long-term reliability expected in professional environments.

With a stereo design and flexible features not found in the original 1178, the Stam Audio SA-78T+ extends the creative reach of this classic compressor. Rather than settling for a 1:1 copy, Stam Audio has chosen to reimagine the 1178 with thoughtful enhancements while remaining true to the sonic character that made the original a studio staple. Each Stam Audio SA-78T+ is built to order with precision and care, offering a compelling blend of vintage authenticity and modern versatility.