From original press : The E.A.R 660 was designed to compress or limit the signal with the barest minimum of interference below the threshold, and the most subjectively satisfying operation on high level signals. The choice of attack/release timings are similar to other compressors, but it is the character of the unit around its "knee" of its attack/decay that contribute to its excellent performance. The onset of limiting is sufficiently gentle as to call attention to itself, although the unit will react rapidly to overload signals when required.
The "660 Limting Amplifier" retains the original circuit. The only changes that are implement are changes to accommodate a flat response with the Lundahl transformers and a mechanical update with elma switching for recall.
Note on the input switch:
The original input switch is an impedance shorting input. This has been retained. Some have confusion around around how it operates. It doesn't cut the low frequency but adds a peak value between 10khz and 20khz. Its amplitude is determined by how much you back off the input.
PSU Transformer:
The original psu transformer was a standard "El core". These are susceptible to emitting more emi than desired. This has been changed to a modern toroidal transformer.
Audio Transformers:
These are the new line of lundahl "C Core" transformer. The C core is most notable for it lack of picking up interference. Due to the nature of its core any interface with the audio signal is phase cancelled. Hence, no shielding is required.
The interstage transformer is a custom transformer wound by Brian Sowter to the original spec.
Finding a sample to accomadate everybody is next to impossible. Drop me a mail if you want to hear one of your own mixes through it.
SPEC SHEET:
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Attack time: 0.2ms to 0.8ms variable.
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Release Time: 0.3ms to 5s variable.
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Release Time: Up to 25s ("classical music" settings 5,6) for sustained high levels.
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Compression Ratio: 1:1 to 10:1 adjustable.
- Sidechain HPF: Off and 120hz
- 4 PCC189 and 2 PCC88 per channel.
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Elma Rotary Switching.
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Lundahl Silicon Iron or Amophous core transformer.
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Noise Floor: Greater Than −102dB
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Input/Output Max. Operating Level: +4dBm.
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Warranty: 3 years.
Available are both standard Lundahl c core transformer or an amorphous core transformer. The amorphous core version adds a considerable cost to building.
Each Unit is hand built here in Ireland. Delivery dates can vary from 1−6 months due to supply chain.
Pricing is for two stereo matched units (Mono unit is also available).
Standard Version: €7,000 (ex vat)
Amorphous Core: €8,500 (ex vat)