TK Audio The Transformer Stereo Harmonic Generator and Color Box

For engineers recording and mixing primarily in the box, TK Audio The Transformer brings analog warmth, punch, and color to tracks and mixes through multiple harmonic stages. The stereo unit is divided into two sections: a harmonic-generation stage and a transformer-coupled Class-A stage with a punchy, vintage tone.

The first section features three distinct harmonic stages: transformer saturation, passive saturation/clipping, and an active germanium circuit. Each stage not only introduces unique harmonic textures but also shapes the tone curve differently. The blend function allows precise control over the harmonic content, while an M/S mode enables independent processing of mid and side channels. The second section is a selectable vintage transformer-coupled Class-A stage that delivers the rich, classic British sound of the 1970s. With illuminated switches and detented potentiometers, The Transformer ensures easy recall and seamless integration into any workflow.

At a Glance

• Transformer saturation circuit that adds low-end harmonics and a low-end bump.
• Passive saturation circuit that adds a lot of odd and even harmonics.
• Active germanium stage with a vintage sound and a mix of harmonics.
• Class-A stage with a pleasant British '70s sound.
• M/S function for separate processing of the mid and side channels.
• Illuminated switches and detented potentiometers for easy recall.

TX Drive

The first harmonic stage, TX Drive, is a transformer saturation circuit with a single control that adjusts the amount of transformer saturation while keeping the output level consistent. The circuit generates approximately 1% harmonic distortion in the low end, with a subtle presence of higher harmonics. It also introduces a slight 2 dB boost around 30 Hz. As you increase the drive, the boost and higher harmonics decrease, but the low-end harmonics remain steady at around 1%.

Gain

Following the TX Drive is a gain control, allowing you to push the subsequent Saturation and Germanium stages harder to generate more harmonics.

Sat (Saturation Stage)

The second stage is a passive saturation circuit that primarily introduces odd harmonics. Engaging the Even switch adds even harmonics as well. The amount of harmonic content depends on how hard this stage is driven.

Ge (Germanium Stage)

The third stage is an active germanium circuit that emphasizes even harmonics, delivering a rich vintage character with a smooth, slightly rounded high end. Like the Sat stage, the harmonic content increases as the stage is driven harder.

Output Trim

A final output trim control allows for fine-tuning the signal level before it enters the blend section.

Blend

The Blend control lets you mix the processed signal from the harmonic stages with the dry signal, giving you precise control over the overall tonal balance.

M/S Processing

A M/S (mid/side) function enables separate processing of the mid and side channels. For example, you can apply TX Drive to the mid channel for enhanced low-end harmonics while using the Sat and Ge stages to add harmonic richness to the side channel.

Class-A Stage

After the blend and M/S processing, the signal passes through a transformer-coupled class-A stage, which imparts a warm, punchy sound with a midrange presence and silky high end, reminiscent of classic British class-A designs from the early �70s.

This stage also includes an HF boost option, subtly enhancing the top end for added air and openness.

Note that the Class-A stage is positioned after the M/S encoder/decoder and cannot be used in M/S mode.

TK Audio Transformer Specs

Gain	Up to +20 dB
Output	-20 to 0 dB, Trim
Input Impedance	20 Kilohms
Maximum Input Level	+26 dBu
Maximum Output Level	+26 dBu
SNR	89 dB, at 0 dBu
Dynamic Range	115 dB

Audio I/O

2x XLR 3-Pin Input (Left/Right) 2x XLR 3-Pin Output (Left/Right)

Power Source	AC Input
AC Input Power	115 to 230 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz
Power Consumption	13 VA

Mounting	2x Rack Ears
Color	Black

Package Weight	11.325 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	21.6 x 14.1 x 4.6"