18 Channel Summing Amplifier with Selectable “A” and “N” OUTPUTS MODS !
Introducing the SA-18, a cutting-edge active summing amplifier that embraces the best of two iconic 70’s flavors. This modern marvel allows you to seamlessly switch between two fully discrete, independent output stages, each with its own distinct character.
At the heart of the SA-18 lies the THAT CORP 1240 chip, serving as a line receiver for every audio signal. From there, the signal flows into the summing circuit, centered around the revered 134 Op-Amp, widely regarded as the finest integrated Op-Amp available. Finally, the signal reaches the output stage, where you have the freedom to choose between three enticing flavors.
The first option is a clean and expansive solid-state choice, reminiscent of the renowned Oxford consoles. Next, there’s the API style output section, based on the legendary 2520 Op-Amp found in vintage American consoles. This choice offers a punchy, in-your-face sound with tight dynamics. Lastly, the Neve/BA-440 output section, a 1:1 replica of the revered 33609 output instantly infuses your audio with a distinctive British vibe and attitude.
The SA-18 also boasts three balanced stereo insert points, allowing you to incorporate your favorite external units such as compressors, limiters, and equalizers. Its stepped output level control ensures precise and consistent adjustments, while the three selectable output stages (Standard, British, and American MODs) provide an array of tonal possibilities.
The insert push-buttons on the SA-18 route the selected input pair to the SEND/RETURN connections on the rear panel via D-SUB connectors, enabling you to connect external outboard gear as true balanced inserts. Specifically, the insertable input pairs are 1-2 (ideal for drum bus processing) and 9-10 (perfect for vocals bus). Additionally, an extra balanced insert pair is available for the stereo master output, granting you access to the external mix bus insert chain.
Experience the SA-18 and unlock a world of sonic versatility, where vintage charm meets contemporary innovation.
THE MODS!
The American MOD of the SA-18 utilizes two SA-25 op-amps and two custom-wound, USA-made AP2503 steel transformer replica. This configuration provides a mid-range push and punchy aggression to your mixes, adding character and energy.
On the other hand, the British MOD features the output stage of a 33609, incorporating two BA-440 cards as found on the ‘metal knob’ revision, and two custom-wound, EU-made LO116 “N” styled output transformers. This setup offers immense low-end extension and a tone that is instantly recognizable, giving your mixes a rich, warm character.
In the Standard Output mode, the SA-18 delivers an extremely clean, clear, and wide output stage with high-performance THAT CORP line drivers that have high slew rate, low distortion and a wide output swing. This mode provides a big, spacious sound reminiscent of the Oxford-line of consoles.
To ensure optimal performance and minimize electromagnetic noise, each SA-18 comes with a premium, custom-spec external power supply. This attention to detail in the design and construction of the summing amp ensures the highest quality sound reproduction.
Whether you’re seeking the punchy aggression of American consoles or the recognizable warmth of British consoles, the SA-18 with its American and British MODs is a versatile and indispensable tool for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Elevate your mixes with the Stam Audio SA-18 and experience the best of both worlds with the distinct sonic characteristics of the American and British MODs. Achieve professional-grade mixes with ease and precision using this exceptional summing amplifier.
100% satisfaction guarantee – if you don’t love your SA-18, we’ll refund you
We’re extremely confident this will put a big smile on your face every time you use it.
The SA-18 comes with a 30 day money back guarantee. This allows you to get it into your rack and see how it impacts your recordings. If you love it (and we think you will!), great…keep the unit and create amazing music with it. If not, no problems. Just send it back to us and we’ll fully refund your purchase.
Julio ‘Fragancia” Abreu –
No doubt this will be a great product – with many great summing boxes from different manufacturers this one adds the 3 top dog console sounds in one box – brilliant !!! . Stam Audio is known for top quality gear without breaking the bank … ‘-)
Jamie Sitar –
This thing sounds like a console! I’ve been using Dangerous summing for 2 decades, and I was very happy until… I a/b-ed some drum tracks through my usual summing setup, then through the SA-16 with the British Mod. The bottom is tighter and not as splayed sounding, but still huge. The snare sounds more alive as well. BIG improvement. I just worked on a nice old Neve console last week, and the Stam yields that familiar sound.
Francois –
Awesome for summing, I used 16 ins with a DX 24 8 drive line input converter without using turboencabulator it works best!
Rolando –
Compré este sumador buscando optimizar el sonido de mis mezclas y masters, realmente me sorprendió el sonido que logré, además puedo usar mis otros equipos análogos como insertos, una de las cosas que más destaco es la calidez y un sonido tridimensional que es difícil de explicar, es por lejos la mejor compra y upgrade que he hecho en mi estudio.
Daniel –
There is something about active summing that you just can’t get with passive summing… the former is what the SA16 is… and somehow packed in a 1U rack form factor. Every turn of the gain knob amplifies every input and the output (vs just the output on a passive mixer + preamp setup). The L/R stereo image on the SA16 is perfectly balanced… subjectively I’ll say I’ve noticed mono tracks pop out more than my previous set-up – made me wonder if I had a slight weird crosstalk phase issue before. The american and british outputs also saturate and colorize the sound subtly but beautifully… you can clearly distinguish the difference between both output stages. The insert and mono buttons are an added plus specially if you want to patch gear in an analog fashion and avoid going through a DA/AD cycle. All in all I am super happy with my purchase and very glad I went for it. The wait was worth it. Thanks for giving me a console like sound in such a small form factor!