VCA compressors are one of the most common types of compressors on the market. Known for being clean, predictable, and exacting, VCA compressors use a control signal to determine when the gain reduction is applied to a signal. Oftentimes, VCA compressors have a wide range of features and flexible controls, making them a highly versatile tool in the studio. 

VCA Compressor Audio Samples

One of the most common ways to use a VCA compressor is on your mix bus, but with so many options to choose from, it can be daunting to know where to start. That's why we worked with Vintage King Audio Consultant Nikhil Suresh to shoot out some of our most popular outboard VCA compressors. We put the SSL Bus+, Smart Research C1, Smart Research C2, SSL G-Gomp, WesAudio ngBusComp, Neve 33609, API 2500+, and Tegeler Audio Creme to the test on the mix bus using the same settings. Check out the playlists below to hear how they all compare and keep scrolling to learn more about each of the compressors we used.

 

Solid State Logic Bus+

Based on the original SSL bus compressor design from 1976, the SSL Bus+ combines the brand's signature sound with exciting features from other classic models.  Boasting qualities from the legendary 400oE and new SuperAnalogue 900 Series consoles, the Bus+ is known for larger-than-life compression. With high-grade components, four modes of operation, three compression options that can be combined, plus advanced routing options, there's nothing the Bus+ can't tackle. Heck, they’ve even thrown in some onboard processing! Finishing touches like stepped pots and adjustable filters show you that they’ve really thought of everything.

Smart Research C2

Smart Research C2

The designs for the Smart Research C2 have been in use since 1984 when Alan Smart first used a prototype in his own studio in Barbados. The C2 may be unassuming at first glance, but offers some unique features under the hood. Of course, there are basic features like stereo link mode, a built-in side-chain filter, and per-channel bypass, but the true magic happens when you engage the CRUSH button. CRUSH mode introduces a secondary FET gain control, which works with the VCA to create harder compression, independently from the VCA circuit.

Smart Research C1

A stripped-down version of the C2, the Smart Research C1 doesn’t have CRUSH mode or side-chain inputs, but it's about $500 cheaper than its predecessor. A close cousin to the classic British VCA console bus, the C1 is known for its smooth, musical sound. With pristine sound and easy-to-use controls, it's no surprise that the C1 has been a go-to mix bus compressor on both sides of the pond for quite some time.

Solid State Logic G-Comp 500 Series

Based on the center section compressor from the brand's original G Series console, the SSL G-Gomp is arguably the most well-known bus compressor to date. Known for its famous ability to simultaneously add punch while gluing tracks together, the G-Comp may be small in stature, but its sound is larger than life. Flexible features like the built-in high-pass filter and auto-release mode make the G-Comp a versatile studio tool suitable for any task.

WesAudio ngBusComp

A fully analog bus compressor with digital recall and automation, the ngBusComp combines the sound of analog with the flexibility of digital. Other stand-out features include a mix knob for parallel compression, built-in side chain filters, and the IRON PAD; a passive attenuator that allows you to drive the output transformer for added saturation. Speaking of saturation, WesAudio's THD mode utilizes a proprietary circuit to deliver a unique form of harmonic distortion called Total Harmonic Distortion.

Neve 33609/N

Grab your sunblock, the Neve 33609/N has been the go-to desert island compressor of countless engineers for decades. Some of the most sought-after features include the brand's exclusive Marinair transformers on the input, bridge-driver, sidechain, and output stages. Based on the original 1970s design, the new 33609/N combines the signature sound of the original with enhanced I/O switching.

API 2500+

A supped-up version of the original 2500 compressor, the API 2500+ offers enhanced features like expanded variable thresholds, selectable ratio, attack, and release times, and a new Mix/Blend circuit. Loaded with the brand's proprietary 2520 op-amps, the 2500+ delivers classic API sound, while its unique Thrust circuit helps keep the bottom-end nice and punchy. Plus, with settings for “old” feed-back style compression (previously found on the API 525) or new “feed-forward” style compression, the 2500+ is versatile enough to tackle any task.

Tegeler Creme

An all-in-one mix bus enhancer, the Tegeler Audio Creme combines a passive Pultec-style EQ with a high-end bus compressor. Creme seeks to put the very best of both worlds in one device, making it an indispensable tool for mix engineers and mastering engineers. Perfect for everything from a subtle squeeze to intense peak limiting, Creme is very harmonic in nature and always delivers transparent sound. Plus, the switchable high-pass filter ensures that even heavy bass sounds don’t lead to pumping.

Not in the market for outboard gear right now? Don't worry, there are analog-emulated plug-in versions of most of the compressors on this list!

Nikhil SureshIf you’re interested in purchasing any of the compressors featured in this shootout, we're here to help! Contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.

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