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ST552 | ANALOG TAPE EMULATOR

Original price was: € 313.54.Current price is: € 245.56.

500 Units246+
Discount-10%-15%-20%
Euro (€) - EUR
  • United States dollar ($) - USD
  • Euro (€) - EUR
  • Pound sterling (£) - GBP
  • Australian dollar ($) - AUD
  • Canadian dollar ($) - CAD
  • Singapore dollar ($) - SGD
  • Swiss franc (CHF) - CHF
  • Norwegian krone (kr) - NOK
  • Danish krone (kr.) - DKK
  • Swedish krona (kr) - SEK
  • Polish złoty (zł) - PLN

ST552 | ANALOG TAPE EMULATOR

Analog Realistic Tape Emulation

The ST552 Analog Tape Emulator is designed for professional music producers and studio engineers who require authentic tape saturation and analog character in their workflow.

This unit provides true-to-life emulation of classic reel-to-reel tape recorders, faithfully recreating the harmonic coloration and saturation found in top mastering suites. The 30/15 IPS modes replicate the distinct low-frequency resonance of tape at different speeds, allowing for precise control over the sonic profile of your material.

The ST552 features FABRIC circuitry, which refines the saturation effect and adds subtle harmonics for a balanced, musical result. The 2025 edition introduces updated emulation algorithms that capture the genuine characteristics of high-end tape machines.

With straightforward controls and a clear layout, the ST552 is practical for tracking, reamping, or mastering. It delivers consistent, reliable results without unnecessary complexity, making it a dependable tool in any professional studio setup.

The ST552 Analog Tape Emulator is designed for professional music producers and studio engineers who require authentic tape saturation and analog character in their workflow.

This unit provides true-to-life emulation of classic reel-to-reel tape recorders, faithfully recreating the harmonic coloration and saturation found in top mastering suites. The 30/15 IPS modes replicate the distinct low-frequency resonance of tape at different speeds, allowing for precise control over the sonic profile of your material.

The ST552 features FABRIC circuitry, which refines the saturation effect and adds subtle harmonics for a balanced, musical result. The 2025 edition introduces updated emulation algorithms that capture the genuine characteristics of high-end tape machines.

With straightforward controls and a clear layout, the ST552 is practical for tracking, reamping, or mastering. It delivers consistent, reliable results without unnecessary complexity, making it a dependable tool in any professional studio setup.

ST552 Review Video - HD Audio

Transformative Across All Production Elements

The ST552 delivers masterful sonic enhancement across your entire production:

  • Drum tracks gain authentic punch, weight and character
  • Bass instruments develop rich harmonic complexity and authority
  • Vocals acquire natural presence, warmth and dimension
  • Synthesizers transform from sterile to vibrant with analog authenticity
  • Complete mixes achieve commercial-ready cohesion and translation

ST552 vs RND 542 Tape Emulator | 1:1 Comparison Video - HD Audio

The FABRIC Harmonics Generator

PROPRIETARY HRK FABRIC HARMONIC GENERATOR:

  • Exclusive harmonic enrichment circuitry that elevates your productions to mastering-grade quality.
  • The FABRIC adds the combination of 2nd and 3rd harmonics to enhance the results of the tape emulator circuitry.
  • RED MODE – Delivers the coveted midrange presence of premium analog consoles for immediate mix translation and amplifies midrange harmonics producing the tonal response of a mixing desk.
  • BLUE MODE – Infuses transformer-like harmonics that add depth, dimensionality and analog authenticity and if used in a moderate amount it will add a magic touch to your tracks.
  • Independent FABRIC DRY/WET blending for precise control over harmonic content. Each mode can be used creatively to achieve unconventional tonal results.

ST552 vs RND 542 Tape Emulator | Comparison Video - HD Audio

ST552 | MASTERCLASS ANALOG TAPE EMULATOR & HARMONIC PROCESSOR

Proven Superior Alternative to Competition

The ST552 offers similar features to the renowned Neve 542 but with significant improvements that address common limitations. Unlike the 542’s excessive low-frequency boost that behaves more like an EQ than tape emulator, the ST552 delivers more accurate tape resonance effects and richer harmonic content at lower drive levels.

Authentic Analog Enhancement That Digital Cannot Replicate

The ST552 represents a sophisticated approach to analog tape emulation, meticulously crafted for dedicated mastering engineers and quality-driven producers who demand more than software approximations. This masterful analog processor bridges the gap between digital precision and the remarkable sonic character that made vintage reel-to-reel machines legendary in professional studios.

Where digital plugins fall short, the ST552 delivers proven analog circuitry that generates authentic harmonic content in real-time. No latency, no CPU bottlenecks, no digital approximations—just genuine analog processing that transforms sterile digital tracks into compelling musical statements.

ST552 vs RND 542 Tape Emulator | User Review Video - HD Audio

Post-Production Workflow Integration | Mastering-Focused Design Philosophy

The ST552 excels in professional post-production environments where reliable, consistent results matter most. Unlike typical overdrive or saturation units, the ST552 adds harmonics without significantly changing overall peak levels or distorting source signals.

API 500 Format Compatibility: Seamless integration into existing professional rack systems, allowing flexible configuration alongside other mastering-grade processors.

Stereo Matching Capability: HRK’s improved production process ensures stereo matching between paired units, essential for demanding bus processing and critical mastering applications.

Transformative Results Across Production Elements

Drum Processing: Tracks gain authentic punch and weight without losing transient detail—the hallmark of quality analog processing.

Bass Enhancement: Instruments develop rich harmonic complexity and commanding authority that cuts through modern mixes.

Vocal Treatment: Sources acquire natural presence and dimensional warmth that software cannot replicate.

Mix Bus Application: Complete productions achieve commercial-ready cohesion and exceptional translation across playback systems.

Professional Upgrade Path

The ST552 represents the logical next step for ambitious producers transitioning from software-only workflows to hybrid analog enhancement. At exceptional value compared to vintage gear or high-end alternatives, it provides immediate access to the sonic advantages that separate professional releases from amateur productions.

Direct from HRK purchasing eliminates distributor markups, making mastering-grade analog processing accessible to serious creators ready to compete at professional levels.

ST552 Signal Flow Diagram

Engineered for Modern Hybrid Studio

The ST552 bridges the gap between digital precision and analog excellence, delivering the perfect upgrade path for producers seeking to elevate their sonic signature:

  • Custom HRK active transformer output stage for uncompromising signal integrity
  • Studio-grade low noise components including premium ALPS potentiometers
  • Professional balanced inputs with 20k impedance for seamless integration with any studio setup
  • API 500 format compatibility for flexible rack configuration
  • Comprehensive metering with smart input/output level monitoring
  • +/-12dB input level control for precise gain staging

HRK Active Transformer

Bart Hrk has developed a proprietary design for an Active Transformer, aimed at addressing the limitations of traditional passive transformers.

Traditional passive transformers are known to be vulnerable to electromagnetic interference, such as 50/60Hz hum and HF RF smog. Additionally, their frequency response is contingent upon load and source impedance, which adversely affects the overall performance of analog studio equipment.

The HRK Active Transformer is a game changer that not only resolves the issues associated with passive transformers but also retains and amplifies the desired characteristics of the transformer output stage. This includes the enrichment of harmonic content and the enhancement of tonal response.

What sets the HRK Active Transformer apart is its ability to deliver the rich, beloved sound that audio enthusiasts seek, including the harmonic content and tonal response, while simultaneously eliminating the drawbacks of passive transformers.

Furthermore, the Active Transformer introduces a delicate “Air” effect and boasts an extended low-frequency (LF) performance, adding depth and clarity to the sound.

Another remarkable feature of the Active Transformer is its dynamic saturation, which is dependent on the output level. As the output signal level increases, the Active Transformer exhibits greater saturation, reminiscent of the warm and rich sound produced by classic studio equipment.

In summary, the HRK Active Transformer is an innovative solution that offers superior sound quality, eliminates electromagnetic interference, and enhances harmonic content and tonal response. It is an invaluable asset for professionals and audiophiles seeking to elevate their audio experience.

Customers Reviews from HRK Users Group

Stereo Operation

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