Origin Effects Cali76-TX Limiting Amplifier Compressor

The 1176 is a much loved, premium quality studio compressor and in many ways is the “industry standard” vintage studio compressor. The primary motivation for developing the Cali76, was to bring the sonic properties of this revered studio-classic into the scope of the average guitar-geek. After all, why should high quality compression be confined to the recording studio? Secondly, existing guitar compressors are generally mediocre performers, and renowned “Tone Killers”, adding hiss, whilst simultaneously robbing your signal of its soul!

The topology of the design was kept true to the original, whilst the actual circuitry was carefully condensed. In this way it has been possible to retain the much loved dynamic response of the original, whilst at the same time permitting a smaller, more stage friendly format!

We’ve slightly tweaked the attack and release times to be of immediate use to guitarists and bass players, as well as in pro-audio applications. Plug it into your recording rig to process vocals, piano, acoustic guitars and drums, with a vintage, analogue warmth! Attack times are: 0.020mS to 1.7mS (for 100% of recovery). Double the range when compared to the 1176 (stock 1176: 0.02mS – 0.8mS). This further defines percussive transients. Release times are: 32mS to 267mS (for 63% of recovery). We’ve tailored the release times to best suite guitar/bass (this makes it easier to dial-in a useful setting), but can also offer people a wider-range of times (stock 1176: 50mS – 1100mS).

The Cali76-TX transformer board works to provide the user with additional tone-options and connectivity. This brings things even closer to the original studio-classic by incorporating a custom iron-core output transformer (other transformer options available) driven by a high-current Class-A transistor stage. “High” and “Low Gain” modes of operation allow the transformer to be pushed into saturation for subtle harmonic generation all the way to all-out grunge! A ground-lift switch quickly fixes any rogue “hums” caused by annoying ground-loop interactions.

We offer two types of transformer. Our custom iron-core transformer or a top-of-the-line Lundahl (at an additional cost). Our preference is for the custom iron-core transformer which saturates nicely in “High-Gain” mode. The Lundahl is linear through and through, contributing no core saturation – a benefit to those looking for a more transparent low-end when used as an insert in the studio or on bass guitar.

The Cali76-TX features dedicated “Amplifier” and “Line/DI” outputs. The “Line/DI” is fully balanced and electronically isolated. The outputs are capable of driving the longest of cable runs and will integrate with any professional studio set-up, vintage or modern! By swapping internal jumpers, the pedal can be operated in either “True-Bypass” or “Buffered Bypass” modes when powered at 9V. When actively engaged, through the use of an 18V supply (PSU not included), the transformer-board effectively buffers the signal at all times, even when the unit is bypassed.