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You may know the sound of vintage optical compressors like the Teletronix LA2A, but often you need more control than just 2 knobs. The Buzz Audio Essence features attack and release settings carefully selected for a more varied dynamic palette plus the intelligent auto modes for that really smooth "set and forget" operation we all love. And unlike the slow LA designs, this compressor can also respond much faster when you need it. The soft knee opto action is perfect for smoothing the dynamics of vocals and a stereo pair will find immediate use to glue together stems, synths and the mix buss. And as our users report, the Essence is brilliant on bass guitar!
The audio input is coupled directly to custom made LDR (light dependent resistor) gain reduction element via a Lundahl LL1540 input transformer. This is followed by a discrete signal path using Buzz Audio's Class A BE40 amplifier and BE50 high current line driver that excites the Lundahl LL1517 output transformer. The combination of high end Lundahl transformers with Buzz Audio circuits creates a very warm low end sound along with a creamy top end finish void of midrange harshness.
The Essence is the only 500 series compressor to feature a side chain insert point so you can apply equalization to the compression characteristic to control certain parts of the audio spectrum. The insert can also be used to "key" the compressor from another sound for all sorts of creative pumping effects. In addition, there is onboard side-chain shelving EQ allowing you to quickly adjust the compressor sensitivity at high and low frequencies.
Fantastic Compressor worth getting a matched pair. I emailed them and they also got back with me pretty quick. Great on vocals.
lovely sound clean compression
This is a great compressor for certain acoustic instrument sources. I've used it on double bass and saxophones with great success. It imparts a subtle warmth and its different attack and release selections make it much more versatile than most opto compressors. Highly recommended.
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The best gear advice always comes from those who use it the most. That's where you come in! Let the pro audio world hear your voice with a review of the Buzz Audio Essence 500 Series Optical Compressor . Once you submit your review, please check your email and verify your address to have it posted.
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