Since the creation of the compressor, this essential studio tool has hardly left the side of discerning engineers, producers and musicians. Whether you're trying to make a vocal stand out or give definition to a drum hit, the compressor can do a whole wide range of things for any track you're working on.To make the selection process easier when looking for your next compressor, Vintage King's Dave Rieley has created a seven compressor shootout. The compressors used in the shootout include the Chandler Limited RS124, Highland Dynamics BG2, Tube Tech CL 1B, Acme Opticom XLA-3, Retro Instruments 176, Retro Instruments Sta-Level and Universal Audio LA-2A.This compressor shootout is unique from others, as Dave doesn't tweak the settings of each compressor while the track plays. Instead, he has set all of the compressors as close to each other as possible. This way when you listen to each compressor you can actually hear what the piece of gear is doing.

Watch our seven compressor shootout below and continue reading to get more info on each one and hear the isolated tracks.

Chandler Limited RS124
As with many Chandler Limited products in recent years, the RS124 is modeled after gear from EMI/Abbey Road Studios. Chandler's take on the famed RS124 actually features settings for three different variations of the compressor, in addition to the traditional settings, including attack and release.

Highland Dynamics BG2
The BG2 has an interesting approach to the world of compression, as this tube compressor offers two different feedback modes. With British mode engaged, you can expect the sound of a modified Altec 436 with plate-to-plate style feedback. If you're using the compressor in American mode, you'll get a lively, robust sound with just the right touch of colorization.

Tube Tech CL 1B
There's a reason that the CL 1B is one of the most beloved compressors in pop music and that's because it offers some of the smoothest compression around. In addition, it does its job transparently and never leaves any trace of color behind on your tracks.

Acme Opticom XLA-3
Born and bred in Detroit, Michigan, via the brain of studio vet Al Sutton, the Acme Opticom XLA-3 is a military spec compressor built to give you a wide range of dynamic effects when recording or mixing. The XLA-3's triple optoelectronic circuit offers up three different kinds of compression with varying results that range from clean to dirty.

Retro Instruments 176
Based on Bill Putnam's 176 Valve Limiter, the Retro Instruments 176 has become a go-to compressor for some of today's top working engineers including Chris Lord-Alge and Jacquire King. While the design features all of the classic bells and whistles of the original, the new version features a bypass switch, stereo linking and a high pass filter.

Retro Instruments Sta-Level
Beloved by many on bass and vocals, the Retro Instruments Sta-Level offers up tons of warmth to your track's bottom end. This variable-mu compressor isn't a one trick pony though. This replica of the famous Gates Sta-Level is also killer on hi-hats, drums, acoustic guitars and horns too.

Universal Audio LA-2A
Created by Teletronix founder Jim Lawrence and purchased by Universal Audio's Bill Putnam, the LA-2A features a tube-driven electro-optical attenuator system. What does that mean? Subtle distortion with gentle warmth.

Chris KarnIf you are interested in any of the compressors mentioned in this blog, please contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.