Now you can have the sound of the iconic SSL Bus Compressor in your studio or at a concert thanks to the latest analog dynamics processor, the Bus Comp Classic. The same design, expanded functionality, and 19″ 1RU form factor—that’s the Bus Comp Classic.
The SSL Bus Compressor needs no introduction. The luckiest among us have had the opportunity to work with the original while mixing on analog consoles Solid State Logic. Fans of 500-series systems likely have this compressor in modular form in their collection, while those working exclusively in the digital realm are familiar with the VST plugins that emulate this unique sound. Now it’s time for the rack-mount version of the Bus Compressor, called the Bus Comp Classic. Designed without compromise, the Bus Comp Classic offers a faithful return to the character and user experience of the SSL Bus Compressor, with the precision, consistency, and reliability expected from modern SSL analog gear. But that’s not all. Solid State Logic has decided to expand the functionality of this design.
Variable VCA Drive
The new variable VCA Drive feature expands the capabilities of the Bus Comp Classic. It allows you to achieve a variety of sonic characteristics, bringing together decades of the distinctive SSL console sound under a single, smoothly adjustable knob. At the cleanest VCA Drive setting, the VCAs operate in a balanced configuration, delivering a clean, low-distortion sound and the powerful transient response characteristic of SSL’s SuperAnalogue™ generation—from the 9000 series to today’s Oracle and Odyssey consoles. As soon as the control is engaged, the VCAs operate in an asymmetric configuration, introducing harmonics and the character of classic SSL designs, such as the FX384 and 4000 series consoles. Further increasing the control value gradually introduces additional coloration and saturation, ranging from a subtle, console-like richness of tone to the denser, more aggressive character associated with early 4K-series designs.
Modern sidechain control
A precise, six-position sidechain high-pass filter provides greater control over the compressor's response to low-frequency signals. By limiting the impact of low-frequency elements on the detector circuit, the kick and bass can retain their depth and punch without causing excessive gain reduction in the rest of the mix.
True stereo external sidechain supports both creative processing and advanced export workflows. When exporting individual tracks, the master mix can feed the sidechain. This ensures that each track retains the compression characteristics it had in the full composition, which helps maintain the balance and dynamics of the mix across different versions and final outputs.
Key features
- Authentic SSL Bus Compressor Design
- High-Performance THAT 2181 VCA Circuits
- Adjustable VCA gain level
- SuperAnalogue™ clarity delivering 4K performance
- Ability to achieve a VCA gain level of up to 10% THD
- Advanced Compression Ratio Options
- SSL Auto-Release Mode
- Precise, step-based controls for compression ratio, attack, release, and S/C HPF filter
- Integrated HPF sidechain filter
- True external stereo sidechain
- Designed and manufactured by SSL