Vintage Collins 26U-2 Stereo Tube Compressor Limiter Restored - Fairchild 670

For sale is a rare vintage Collins 26U-2 stereo tube compressor/limiter. Often called a poor man's Fairchild, these use the same 6386 tube for vari-mu gain reduction. This is probably my favorite sounding compressor for use on the 2-bus (along with all the other things vari-mu's are known for). This unit is essentially two side by side 26U's that can be stereo linked. So it's also works wonders as two independent channels of sweet sounding tube compression/limiting. This unit was comprehensively restored about 3 years ago. All electrolytic and signal capacitors were replaced with the highest quality components available to provide excellent stereo matching. Matched sets of 6V6 and 6386 tubes were also installed. The channels can be very closely matched even while going into appreciable gain reduction, so it works really well on stereo material. Over $900 in parts alone were used for this restoration. The attack and release controls on these are originally on the back behind the grille (impossible to adjust when racked). These were swapped to the front panel where the gain reduction balance and zero controls are located. No new holes drilled, just relocated those controls to be accessible on the front. The only other mod was switching the power jack to a standard IEC jack. The original meters were not functioning, so the meters on this one are not original. It was difficult to find replacements that fit the original opening, but these worked great. The black metal grille around the back and bottom are also non-original. There are some signs of wear around the unit including the rack ears and a few scratches to the front. But overall, it presents very well and looks beautiful when racked. These are very heavy. So it will be packed carefully and shipped insured. Let me know if you have any questions and check out my other vintage pro audio listings. Thanks!