Stam Audio

Summary

Abstract

Stam Audio is a manufacturer of affordable clone/tribute gear including compressors, preamps, EQs, and microphones. The quality of the actual products is generally well-regarded, but the company is notorious for extremely long delivery times. Products include the SA-87 microphone, SA-23A compressor, Sontec EQ clone, and an API 312 variant with a tube input stage.

Key Characteristics

  • Budget-oriented clones and tributes of classic gear
  • Notorious for not delivering on time — long wait times are a recurring complaint
  • Once gear arrives, quality is generally considered decent
  • Product line spans microphones, compressors, EQs, and preamps
  • The SA-87T microphone is well-liked for pop vocal recording

Use Cases

  • Budget entry point into classic circuit designs
  • The SA-87T stacks well and has nice top end for pop records
  • The Sontec EQ clone has generated interest among those who like the original

Comparable Alternatives

GearNotes
AudioscapeBetter delivery reputation, faithful reproductions
Warm AudioSimilar price bracket, more readily available
Golden Age ProjectCheaper alternative for some products

Common Mistakes

  • Not factoring in the extremely long wait times when ordering
  • Expecting immediate availability — this is a wait-and-hope operation

See Also

Source Discussions

Community Insights

“It’s a shame Stam have been notorious for not delivering on time.” — David Fuller

“Stam audio SA87-T has been really good to me. Stacks really well and the top end is real nice for pop records.” — herbie

“I’ve never used any Stam and the long wait times have me wary.” — DarrenB