NORTHERN RADIO Tube Compressor Am Amplifier 5185/G

( Brand: Northern Radio ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 5185 ), ( Model: AM 5185 ), ( Type: Microphone Preamplifier )

Review NORTHERN RADIO Tube Compressor Am 5185/g Amplifier

The Northern Radio 5185 Tube Compressor AM-5185/G Amplifier is a high-performance, vacuum tube-based audio compressor and amplifier combination unit designed for professional broadcast and recording applications. This device is a must-have for audio engineers and broadcasters seeking to enhance their audio signals with warm, natural compression and amplification.

The 5185 Compressor section is built around the legendary Telefunken ECC83S tube. This tube provides a smooth, musical compression character, making it ideal for handling various audio sources, including voice, music, and instruments. With adjustable threshold, attack, release, ratio, and make-up gain controls, this compressor allows you to fine-tune the compression effect to your specific requirements. Its input and output transformers contribute to a rich, full-bodied sound, making it an excellent choice for adding presence and clarity to your audio.

The AM-5185/G Amplifier section features two 6L6GC power tubes and two 12AX7A driver tubes. This class A design delivers a clean, powerful output of up to 25 watts per channel into 8 ohms. A 16-position input impedance selector ensures compatibility with a wide range of microphones and sources, while the output impedance selector offers options for connecting to various loads, such as speakers or recording equipment.

The 5185 Tube Compressor AM-5185/G Amplifier features a front-panel VU meter for easy visual monitoring of the compression effect. This vacuum tube audio processor also offers selectable input and output levels for easy integration into various systems. The unit's rugged construction, including a heavy-duty steel chassis, ensures reliable operation in demanding broadcast and recording environments.

In summary, the Northern Radio 5185 Tube Compressor AM-5185/G Amplifier is a versatile, high-quality audio processing solution for professionals who demand the best in sound quality and performance. Its vacuum tube-based design delivers a warm, natural compression character and clean, powerful amplification, making it an indispensable tool for enhancing voice, music, and instrument recordings, as well as live broadcasts.

The Northern Radio 5185 Tube Compressor and its matching amplifier, the 5185/G, are popular choices among audio enthusiasts and professionals for their warm and musical sound character. Here are some pros and cons that might help you make an informed decision about purchasing these units.

1. Warm and Musical Sound: The Northern Radio 5185 compressor and amplifier are known for their rich, warm, and musical sound. They add a pleasing harmonic character to the audio signal, making them an excellent choice for recording and mastering applications.

2. Tube Technology: The use of vacuum tubes in the design provides a natural compression and distortion response, which can add depth and dimension to the audio. Tube circuits also tend to be more forgiving of transient peaks and provide a more pleasing compression characteristic compared to solid-state designs.

3. Versatile: The 5185 compressor offers a wide range of compression ratios, from gentle compression to heavy squashing, making it suitable for various applications, such as drums, bass, vocals, and mastering.

4. High-Quality Build: The Northern Radio 5185 compressor and amplifier are built to a high standard, with solid construction and high-quality components. They are designed to last for many years with proper maintenance.

1. Power Consumption: Tube equipment, in general, consumes more power than their solid-state counterparts. The Northern Radio 5185 compressor and amplifier are no exception, which might be a concern for those with limited power supplies.

2. Maintenance: Tube equipment requires regular maintenance, including tube replacement, biasing, and alignment. This can be time-consuming and may require some technical knowledge.

3. Size and Weight: The Northern Radio 5185 compressor and amplifier are relatively large and heavy compared to solid-state units. This can be a disadvantage for those with limited space or who need to transport their equipment frequently.

4. Cost: Tube equipment, in general, tends to be more expensive than solid-state alternatives. The Northern Radio 5185 compressor and amplifier are no exception, which might be a consideration for those on a budget.

In conclusion, the Northern Radio 5185 Tube Compressor and 5185/G Amplifier offer a warm, musical sound character that is highly sought after in the audio industry. However, they also come with some drawbacks, such as higher power consumption, maintenance requirements, size and weight, and cost. Ultimately, the decision to purchase these units depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. If you value the warm, musical sound character and are willing to accept the drawbacks, then the Northern Radio 5185 compressor and amplifier are an excellent choice. However, if you require a more cost-effective, low-maintenance solution, then you might want to consider solid-state alternatives.

Details:

I used a Mauriac to slowly power it up. It works well without noise. Its original and in its box for decades. Its in excellent condition.

This is a 1969 tube audio compressor/limiter made by Northern Radio.

specifications signalprocessorgo:

• brand: Northern Radio
• mpn: 5185
• model: Am 5185
• type: Microphone Preamplifier

offer signalprocessorgo:

• availability: In Stock
• started: August 23, 2025
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• best offers: True
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• Musical Instruments Gear > Pro Audio Equipment > Signal Processors/Rack Effects
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