There are few pieces of gear that have achieved the status held by the SSL Bus Compressor, and it’s now officially returned to the company’s line-up in a simple 1U design. While the Bus+ expands greatly on the concept and kits it out with extra bells and whistles like dynamic EQ, dual-mono and Mid-Side operation and so on, the new Bus Comp Classic takes a stripped-back approach and remains faithful to the original design.

The new arrival employs high-performance THAT 2181 VCAs in its audio path, with SSL’s unique side-chain architecture incorporating a VCA in its feedback loop. Threshold, Attack, Ratio, Release, Make-up and SC HPF controls occupy the front panel, with Attack, Ratio, Release and SC HPF all featuring stepped controls. For the most part, the design sticks faithfully to the classic formula, although SSL have taken the opportunity to slightly adjust the choice of ratios and release times. Along with its built-in six-position side-chain high-pass filter, the unit also features a stereo external side-chain input.

Also new to the design is VCA Drive, a variable control that allows the Bus Comp Classic to deliver a range of different tonal characters. When switched out, the unit transparent sound and powerful transients associated with SSL’s SuperAnalogue designs — such as the 9000 Series and Duality consoles —‚ while increasing its level pushes the design into the FX384 and classic 4000 Series territory. 

• Authentic SSL Bus Compressor design.
• High-performance THAT 2181 VCAs.
• Continuously variable VCA Drive.
  • From SuperAnalogue transparency to 4K character.
  • Up to 10% THD.
• Expanded ratio and release options.
• SSL program-dependent auto release.
• Integrated six-position side-chain high-pass filter.
• Precision six-position stepped controls for ratio, attack, release and side-chain HPF.
• Genuine stereo external side-chain input.
• Designed and built by Solid State Logic.

The Bus Comp Classic is available now, priced at $1799£1299 including VAT.

solidstatelogic.com/products/bus-comp-classic