Heritage Audio has announced the release of its HERCHILD Model 660 and Model 670 tube-based compressors that build on the design of the iconic Fairchild models from the 1950s with the addition of modern features. Here’s more details from the company’s press release…

Having shaped and influenced 1,000s and 1,000s of hit records over the last 6 decades it’s easy to say that the original Fairchild models could be declared among the most important pieces of recording equipment of all time. Unfortunately, only around 500 or so units were produced and after so many years of use and abuse not many are available nowadays or in useable condition. That makes these extremely rare and expensive items that are hunted down all around the world. You would have to consider yourself lucky to find one!

The Heritage Audio HERCHILD Model 670 and 660, each offer a faithful reproduction to the originals as they are stuffed full of valves and transformers (22 and 9 respectively for the 670, 11 and 5 for the 660), operate at a very high voltage and use only the best components to deliver the utmost quality possible. This is immediately recognised during use as there are no audible thumps produced in addition to extremely low distortion and noise making it perfect for Mixing and Mastering duties.

While staying true to the original in terms of response and sound, Heritage Audio have added a few things to make the units more practical in modern day studios. First off they’ve given direct access to the continuously variable DC THRESHOLD (Slope/Ratio/Knee) control. This is something that makes the compressor so much more flexible and was only available on the original via an inconvenient screw adjustment hidden from immediate access. It’s easy to go from a soft, unnoticeable, light compression to a heavier, harder limiting…and everything in-between.

Then there’s the SC FILTER. Nowadays, it’s just about impossible to fathom a compressor without this feature as it’s become so important in everyday use. Here Heritage have provided 4 different frequencies to choose from to precisely tailor your compression needs. The exact Attack and Release times have also faithfully been reproduced in the TIME CONT section with the same 6 settings as the original so you can confidently recreate the feel of its ancestor.

Features

• Fully tube-based Variable-Mu compression

• 22 valves & 9 transformers (670 model) 11 valves & 5 transformers (660 model)

• Side chain filter for modern day needs

• Immediate access to the continuously variable slope/ratio/knee

• All 6 of the original Attack & Release settings available

• Clean, intelligent design to guarantee many years of easy professional use

• That legendary sound finally available to everyone

Pricing & Availability

HERCHILD Model 660 and Model 670 are available now via Heritage Audio’s global network of dealers with an SSP (Standalone Selling Price) of €5,499.00 EUR (including VAT) and €9,999.00 EUR (including VAT) in the EU, respectively, and a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $5,499.00 USD and $9,999.00 USD, respectively.