Sound Skulptor unveils the STS - Stereo Tape Simulator, an analog processor that recreates the sonic imprint of vintage tape recorders. The effect aims to provide the roundness, the punch, the compression and the saturation of magnetic tape.
The STS includes the electronics of a classical tape recorder with the variable gain input stage, the pre-emphasis stage, the recording amplifier, the constant current driven tape head, the playback amplifier with 6dB per octave attenuation, the NAB de-emphasis stage, a filter emulating the effect of head gap and the differential output stage.
The heads and magnetic tape behavior is simulated by the magnetic core of several coupled coils. The STS can simulate the tape recorder rolling at 3 different speeds: 7.5 ips, 15 ips and 30 ips. The tape speed modifies the bandwidth and the saturation of the magnetic core.
Highlights :
• 100% analog
• Faithful and natural simulation, thanks to the close parallelism with the models
• Zero latency
• For studio and live sound
• No moving parts, no hiss, no tape wear, no maintenance
• 2 independent channels
• Differential input and output
• Class A biased op-amps
• 2 high resolution peak-meters
• Neutrik connectors
• High grade components
• Full hardware bypass switch
• Easy to use: The IN potentiometer adjust the effect intensity, the OUT potentiometer sets the output level.
The STS will be available as a finished product, as a full kit and as a mini-kit. The mini-kit needs a case, PSU, XLR's, pots and switches.
Prices:
• STS assembled: €752 (€899 including VAT)
• STS full kit: €375 (€449 including VAT)
• STS mini kit: €192 (€229 including VAT)
Availabiltity TBA.
You can get a feel of the STS effect by listening to the audio clips at :
