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Key Features
Product Ref: 105040
The COMP-54 bases its design on the classic diode bridge that has been widely used in vintage compressors and musical equipment. The decision not to include integrated circuits ensures you capture the very essence of vintage compressors. The signal patch utilises Class-A discrete circuitry for optimised audio performance, generating a unique tonal character that is similar to the classic 2254 compressor. The resulting sound is musical, full-bodied and warm; reminiscent of compressors from the late 70s and early 80s. It boasts a transformer balanced input and output, allowing you to use a variety of musical equipment and instruments. The combination of premium-grade components and vintage-style compression captures the sound used on many popular recordings in music history.
This Plus version of the COMP-54 features built-in Carnhill Input and Output transformers for a more full-bodied, vintage-style sound. Based on the design and tonal character of classic mic preamps and compressors, the COMP-54 is ideal for delivering the best performance for your input sources. The unique tonal character is similar to vintage-style compressor, accentuating your input signal for the best possible sound. It features no integrated circuits for optimal signal integrity, ensuring minimal operational noise.
The comprehensive control section features a variety of different controls, allowing you to dial in your required levels with ease. All the controls are stepped apart from the gain make-up, giving you advanced precision that you can mark down for use as a preset FOR LATE USE. It features standard compressor controls such as Threshold, Attack, Ratio, Gain and Release. It also features an integrated high pass filter with three selectable sidechain filter frequencies. It comes complete with a three flexible settings comprised of: Internal, Insert and External. This gives you a variety of options when it comes to sidechaining. Using the external sidechain I/O, the compressor ensures it is electronically balanced @ 4dBu. It also includes separate switches for hardwire bypass and compression output for added flexibility. Additionally, the unit features a three position Air EQ switch, allowing you to further shape your sound.
Keeping in line with the Golden Age Project aesthetic, the COMP-554 boasts a vintage-style design with retro attenuators and an eye-catching red finish. One of the most prominent features of the COMP-554 is the VU meter, providing precise visual monitoring for your levels. The meter can be used to select between output and gain reduction levels for added versatility. It includes two insert connectors for incorporating the EQ-573 in the main audio/sidechain signal path. The versatile design allows you to link together two units for stereo operation. There is also a two-position output termination switch for varying tones.