The Solid State Logic Bus Comp Classic brings the legendary "glue" and punch of the world's most famous mix bus compressor back to a dedicated 1U rackmount format. Built around high-performance THAT 2181 VCAs and SSL’s iconic feedback side-chain architecture, the Bus Comp Classic delivers the exact dynamic response, movement, and cohesion that have defined hit records for over five decades. Designed without compromise, it captures the speed and immediate workflow of original SSL console compression while introducing powerful modern enhancements for expanded creative control. Featuring the new Variable VCA Drive, the Bus Comp Classic seamlessly spans multiple eras of SSL console lineage. At its cleanest setting, balanced VCA operation delivers the low-distortion clarity and transient speed of SuperAnalogue 9000, Oracle, and Odyssey consoles. Sweeping the control engages unbalanced VCA operation to introduce the rich harmonic coloration, density, and saturation of the FX384 and classic 4000 Series consoles. To ensure accurate recall, the Bus Comp Classic utilises a six-position stepped control for Ratio, Attack, Release, and Side-Chain High Pass Filter settings. In addition to the renowned soft-knee 2:1 setting and classic SSL Auto Release mode, expanded time constants and ratio options offer extra flexibility. A stereo external side-chain input allows keying from external signals. Key Features Authentic SSL Bus Compressor Circuitry: Built with high-performance THAT 2181 VCAs in the audio path and classic SSL feedback side-chain topology. Variable VCA Drive: Continuously variable control transitions from pristine SuperAnalogue transparency to harmonically rich 4000-series console saturation (up to 10% THD). Precision Stepped Controls: Six-position stepped switches for Ratio, Attack, Release, and S/C HPF for fast operation and exact recall. Legendary SSL Auto Release: Two-stage, program-dependent release circuitry for natural, dynamic movement on complex program material. Integrated Side-Chain HPF: Precision 6-position high-pass filter prevents low-frequency energy from driving excessive gain reduction. Stereo External Side-Chain Input: Enables external keying and accurate stem printing workflows. Dedicated 1U Format: Solid, road-ready 19-inch rackmount hardware designed and built by Solid State Logic. Technical Specifications Form Factor: 1U 19-Inch Rackmount Channel Architecture: Stereo / Dual-Mono Side-Chain VCA Type: High-Performance THAT 2181 VCAs Harmonic Saturation: Variable VCA Drive (Pristine SuperAnalogue to 10% THD 4K Saturation) Controls & Recall: Ratio: 6-Position Stepped Switch (Includes Soft-Knee 2:1) Attack: 6-Position Stepped Switch Release: 6-Position Stepped Switch (Includes SSL Auto Release) S/C HPF: 6-Position Stepped Switch Audio Inputs/Outputs: Main Line Inputs: 2x XLR Female (Balanced) Main Line Outputs: 2x XLR Male (Balanced) External Side-Chain Inputs: 2x XLR Female (Balanced Stereo External S/C) Power Supply: Internal AC Mains (100V−240V)
