Retro STA-LEVEL Tube Compressor

The Retro STA-LEVEL is a modern recreation of the iconic 1956 Gates STA-LEVEL, a compressor that defined the sound of hit radio throughout the 1960s and continues to shape contemporary productions. To celebrate fifty years of the design, Retro’s Gold Edition enhances the original concept with six selectable release time settings and three modes of operation.

Single mode delivers exceptionally smooth control, ideal for bass; Double mode suits a wide range of sources with classic character; and Triple mode responds quickly to transients while maintaining a natural musicality. These options provide the flexibility to adapt the Retro STA-LEVEL to any application, from subtle dynamic control to bold, characterful compression.

At its core, the Retro STA-LEVEL employs a unique program-controlled release circuit that maintains density and consistency even at up to 40 dB of gain reduction, while avoiding the usual compression artefacts. The signal path is transformer balanced throughout, ensuring control-induced distortion is cancelled, while push-pull circuitry and a 6V6 output stage deliver wide voltage swing and powerful line output. The result is a compressor that imparts warmth, intimacy, and air, qualities that have made the Sta-Level a favourite across generations.

Retro’s refinements include instant tube balance alignment without the need for test equipment, the use of readily available 6BA6 tubes for gain reduction (with a 6386 socket still provided), and the ability to link multiple units for stereo, surround, or sidechain operation. The Retro STA-LEVEL also features XLR transformer-balanced input and output, an IEC power connector, hand-matched audiophile-grade coupling capacitors, custom-wound transformers, and an internal safety cover for component protection.

Revisions to original design:

• Tube balance can be instantly aligned without test equipment
• Uses a pair of easily obtainable 6BA6 gain reduction tubes. The 6386 socket is still provided.
• Two or more Sta-Levels can be coupled together for stereo, surround or sidechain operation
• XLR transformer balanced input and output
• IEC Power Connector
• Hand matched audiophile-grade coupling capacitors
• High quality, custom wound transformers used throughout
• Internal component safety cover