Solid State Logic (SSL) Stereo Bus Compressor — 500-Series Compressor

SSL’s mix-gluing G-Series console center-section compressor module for API 500-format power racks

While a relatively simple design, the original SSL G Series center-console Stereo Bus Compressor had an uncanny ability to bring out size, cohesiveness, and punch in a mix without compromising clarity. In fact, the industry term, “audio glue” came from the use of the SSL G Series console stereo bus compressor. More amazingly was Stereo Bus Compressor’s auto-release, which seemed to ‘read your mix’s mind’ and provide just the right response for nearly any program material thrown at it. That’s why to this day top mixers will not compress a stereo bus without their trusty SSL Stereo Bus Compressor. A key element of the SSL sound, the Stereo Bus Compressor is featured on countless classic recordings. And now the availability of the SSL Stereo Bus Compressor in a module for the 500-format makes this essential audio production tool available to anyone with an empty Lunchbox (or other 500-series power rack) who’s hungry for signature SSL stereo bus compression on their 2-bus.

SSL Stereo Bus Compressor 500-series module unique features:

• Legendary sonic character of SSL Stereo Bus Compression

SSL Stereo Bus Compressor 500-series module key features:

• Six ratio settings ranging from 1.5:1 to 20:1
• Five release settings and auto-release function

INSIDE THE BOX — SSL Stereo Bus Compressor 500-Series Module

The SL 4000 console was the first console to incorporate dynamics processing in every channel and a master compressor in the console center section.

The ability to patch into the SL 4000's center compressor and control its sidechain from an internal sub-mix, allowed engineers to discover the amazingly unique qualities of this compressor for use on instruments such as piano and drums, as well as its classic mix finalizing capabilities. This versatility created the demand for a rack mount equivalent and a legendary piece of outboard gear was born.

The SSL Stereo Bus Compressor uses the same classic twin VCA design as its console counterpart. Combined with improved input and output circuitry, this new unit provides improved audio performance, while retaining the dynamics characteristics that have provided numerous hit mixes for the world's best audio engineers.

Thanks to the 500-series version of the SSL Stereo Bus Compressor, you can have this essential studio tool without having to buy a G Series Console.

OUTSIDE THE BOX — SSL Stereo Bus Compressor 500-Series Module

Like it’s design, the front panel of the SSL Stereo Bus Compress module is simplicity itself. At the top of the unit as gain reduction meter, which ranges from 0 – 20dB. Beneath the meter one the left is Threshold (-20dB - +20dB); Attack, which ranges from .1ms to 30ms; and ratio with six settings: 1.5:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4”1, 5:1, and 10:1. On the right side of the Stereo Bus Compressor is a bypass switch (IN), gain makeup, and release, with a range of .1s, .2s, .3s, .4s, .8s, 1.6s, and Auto, which, as mentioned above, works on just about any program material.

About the SSL G Series Console

The Solid State Logic SL 4000 G Series is the world's most successful studio production console. Its reputation is built upon SSL's design excellence, advanced electronic engineering, and a sound quality that has produced hundreds of best-selling recordings. A key element in the sound of many of these recordings is punch and drive of the mixes created by the classic G-Series center section compressor.

Who’s using SSL

If you’re not familiar with Solid State Logic (SSL) let RSPE Audio Solutions be the first to welcome you to Earth! Most of the hit records from the last 30 years were mixed on SSL. Solid State Logic’s automated large-format consoles quickly became a driving force in the music after they first arrived on the scene in 1977. To this day, mixers such as Bob Clearmountain, Michael Brauer, Chris Lord Alge, Tom Lord Alge use SSL G Series consoles as the centerpiece of their mixing tools, which means everybody who’s anybody in rock and pop music over the last 35 years has SSL all over their records.

About Solid State Logic

From groundbreaking audio consoles to innovative video production systems, Solid State Logic has evolved to become the world’s leading manufacturer of analog and digital audio consoles and provider of creative tools for film, audio, video and broadcast professionals.

With more than 3000 SSL-equipped studios and facilities operational today, the excellence of SSL consoles is universally recognized for unrivalled sonic quality, superb ergonomics, outstanding automation and an international support infrastructure second to none.

The legendary sound of the SSL Stereo Bus Compressor has been gluing mixes together for 35+ years and is finally available for the 500 rack. For more information, call or chat with an RSPE representative today.

Don’t forget to check out RSPE’s Rack Revolution, a virtual 500-series rack builder that lets you custom-configure the perfect 500-series lunchbox for your studio, DAW, or mobile recording rig. RSPE carries every 500-series module imaginable, including mic preamps, compressor-limiters, equalizers, and 500 power racks.