Welcome back to Compression Explained. In the first three editions, we’ve covered how to think about compression, how to shape sounds with attack, release, threshold, ratio, and knee and we walked through the different types of compressors out there.
Today, we’ll use what we’ve learned in previous editions and bring it into action with the Open Compressor by Woodstock Audio!
1176 FET Compressor
The 1176 compressor, is a legendary FET (Field Effect Transistor) compressor/limiter. Its hard-knee and peak-detecting design makes it ideal for punchy drums, vocals, and sources that benefit from dynamic excitement.
How to dial it in
In the advanced section select peak, regular and feedback. In the main section set a hard knee, a ratio of 4:1, 8:1, 12:1 or 20:1, a really fast attack (20–800 µs) and quick release (50 ms–1.1 s). In the modules section dial in odd-order harmonics and a bright tone.
SSL Bus Compressor
The SSL G Series Bus Compressor is a classic VCA-based feedforward compressor famous for its “glue” effect on mixes.
How to dial it in
In the advanced section select RMS, regular and feedforward. In the main section set a soft knee, a rato of2:1, 4:1, 10:1 or 24:1, a fast attack (0.1–30 ms) and auto release. In the modules section dial in just a tiny bit of odd-order harmonics and no tone.
API 2500/2250 VCA Compressor
The API 2500 is a versatile VCA-based compressor designed for precise, punchy compression. It features a feedforward, RMS-detecting design with adjustable attack, release, and ratio, allowing it to shape transients and dynamics with clarity.
How to dial it in
In the advanced section select RMS, regular and feedforward. In the main section set a soft knee, a rato of 2:1, 4:1, 6:1, 10:1 or 24:1, a fast attack (0.1–30 ms) and auto release. In the modules section dial in just a tiny bit of odd-order harmonics and no tone.
dbx 160 VCA Compressor
The dbx 160 is a classic VCA-based compressor known for its fast, clean, and precise compression. Using a feedforward RMS-style detector with selectable ratios, it excels at controlling transients on drums and instruments without imparting much coloration.
How to dial it in
In the advanced section select RMS, regular, and feedforward. In the main section set a hard or soft knee, a ratio 2:1, 4:1, 8:1, 10:1 or 24:1 of ,very fast attack(as low as 0.1 ms) and fast release (50–200 ms). In the modules section leave harmonics minimal and maintain a clean tone.
LA2A Optical Compressor
The Teletronix LA-2A is an iconic optical tube compressor known for its smooth, musical gain reduction and warm, even-order harmonic coloration. Its slower attack and program-dependent release make it perfect for vocals, bass, and other sources that require transparent leveling.
How to dial it in
In the advanced section select RMS, optical and feedback. In the main section set a soft knee, a ratio of 3:1, slow attack (10 ms) and auto release. In the modules section dial in even-order harmonics and a warm tone.
Fairchild 620 Variable-Mu Compressor
The Fairchild 670 is a legendary tube-based vari-mu compressor. Using a soft-knee, RMS-detecting feedback design, it provides smooth, musical compression with even-order harmonic warmth.
How to dial it in
In the advanced section select RMS, optical and feedback. In the main section set a soft knee, variable attack (2–20 ms) and auto release. In the modules section dial in even-order harmonics and a warm tone.
Grab a free trial of the Open Compressor here and try these techniques for yourself!
Until next time,
Rob
