Processors
Compressor
compressor
SSL (Solid State Logic)/Bus Comp Classic

SSL (Solid State Logic) / Bus Comp Classic

One of SSL's signature processors, the 1U-type SSL bus compressor, which has spawned many imitators, has been revived after approximately 20 years. While inheriting the operability of the original SSL bus compressor, it is equipped with VCA Drive to add sound character. The SSL bus compressor, a standard dynamics processor for 50 years, has been reissued by SSL itself.

At the heart of the Bus Comp Classic's sound is the high-performance THAT 2181 VCA integrated into the audio circuitry. Combined with SSL's unique sidechain architecture, which incorporates the VCA into the feedback loop, it creates the distinctive response, punch, and groove characteristic of SSL bus compressors. From subtle gain reduction to powerful bus processing, transients are clear yet controlled, and multiple elements work together to deliver the unique tonal character of SSL bus compressors.

The Bus Comp Classic's new VCA Drive feature reproduces everything from the clean bus compressor sound of current SSL consoles to the aggressive character of bus compressors found in 4000 series consoles.

The character of SSL consoles over decades has been condensed into a single continuously variable control.

Normally, the VCA operates in a balanced configuration, delivering the low-distortion clarity and powerful transient response characteristic of SSL's SuperAnalogue? generation, from the 9000 series to the current Oracle and Odyssey consoles.

Turning on VCA Drive switches the VCA to an unbalanced configuration, replicating the character of classic SSL consoles like the 4000 series. Further increasing the control gradually adds coloration and saturation, resulting in a richer, more aggressive character.

From polished mix finishes to heavily driven drums, and even parallel compression approaching 10% THD, VCA Drive allows you to freely shape your sound, from transparent, clean tones to aggressive timbres.

The Bus Comp Classic inherits the classic settings of traditional SSL bus compressors, including THRESHOLD, ATTACK, RATIO, RELEASE, and MAKE-UP.

The distinctive compression ratios of the SSL bus compressor each have carefully defined characteristics. The most commonly used 2:1 mode features an extremely gentle, soft-knee response, achieving transparent mix bus processing through gradual gain reduction.

Higher ratios provide stronger control and increased density, effectively working equally well with stems, drum buses, and parallel chains.

The SSL bus compressor's distinctive AUTO (auto-release) setting is more than just another release setting; it possesses unique characteristics.

The two-stage release circuit, adapted to the program content, dynamically responds to changes in the sound source, releasing louder elements more quickly while recovering quieter elements more slowly. As a result, a natural and musical release characteristic is achieved while maintaining movement, detail, and control. The ""AUTO"" mode truly shines in complex programs.

The BusCommClassic features a sidechain high-pass filter. By applying a high-precision 6-stage sidechain high-pass filter to the triggering program, the compressor's response to low-frequency components can be controlled more precisely. By reducing the impact of strong low-frequency elements on the detection circuit, kick drums and bass can be processed while maintaining their depth and impact, without causing excessive gain reduction in other parts of the mix.

Furthermore, the BusCompClassic features a stereo external sidechain input with XLR connectors, offering both creative processing and advanced workflow capabilities.

Features:

* A genuine SSL stereo bus compressor reissued by SSL

* Classic operation of SSL bus compressors

* Equipped with high-performance THAT 2181 VCA

* New VCA Drive function: Allows for versatile control of sound quality, from clean and transparent to aggressive, on 2-mixes and stereo material

* Features the traditional SSL auto-release mode

* High-precision stepped controls for ratio, attack, release, and S/C HPF

* Equipped with sidechain HPF

* Equipped with stereo external sidechain input

* Size: 1RU

* Input LR: XLR-F / Output LR: XLR-M / External sidechain input LR: XLR-M