Compresseurs et limiteurs

Studio Compressors – Which One for Mixing and Mastering

A compressor manages dynamics: it lifts the quiet parts, holds back the loud ones, and decides whether a track sits in the mix or fights it. This collection covers hardware compressors and limiters for individual tracks, mix bus duty and mastering.

VCA, FET, opto or vari-mu

Four topologies, four different ways of reacting to signal. VCA is fast and precise — it works on a mix bus and on drums. FET reacts instantly and can get aggressive, which is why it has a reputation on vocals and guitar. Opto compression is gentle and musical, and smooths a vocal without drawing attention to itself. Vari-mu on tubes squeezes the gentlest of all, and most often ends up on the master bus.

Where to start

For a mix bus compressor, we most often point people to SSL BUS+ — the classic bus compressor that glues a mix together. For a first outboard compressor on individual tracks, Elysia xpressor is hard to go wrong with. Want character instead of transparency? Warm Audio WA76-A or Black Lion Audio SEVENTEEN both add plenty.

The brands we carry

We carry SSL, Warm Audio, Elysia, Black Lion Audio, Universal Audio and Manley — budget classics through units that stay in a studio for decades.

Hear it in our Warsaw showroom

The biggest difference between us and a mail-order shop: you can hear the gear before you buy it. Our showroom at Nowogrodzka 6A/102 in Warsaw is there so you can try it on your own material, not a shop demo. Book a visit or just swing by — we'll help without the sales pitch. Call: +48 573 580 840.

FAQ

Hardware compressor or plugin?

A plugin is enough for cleaning up dynamics. Hardware is bought for character, and for a decision made at tracking time that stays baked into the recording for good.

Which compressor for the mix bus?

Usually a VCA-style bus compressor, set for 1–2 dB of gain reduction. Its job is to glue the mix, not squash it.

Is a limiter the same thing as a compressor?

A limiter is a compressor with a very high ratio and fast attack. A compressor shapes dynamics; a limiter enforces a ceiling.

Guides & related

• Neve 88C: Compact VCA Compressor With 88R Console Technology
• AEA Debuts Its First Compressor

See also: Equalizers · 500 Series · Preamps