With great advancements in DAW software technology over the last fifteen to twenty years, there’s lots of great ‘in the box’ software options for adding compression to a mix. However, we think there’s little comparison to the quality of the real things. So here’s a list of eleven great outboard audio compression units to bring some pro sheen to your compositions. If you’re thinking of investing then check out our quick fire list below.
Universal Audio 1176LN Compressor
This legendary compressor is known for its fast attack and release times, making it great for creating high-energy sounds. It’s also renowned for its transparency and the ability to easily dial the sound in without much effort. It’s a great choice for creating punchy drums and tight basslines. Pros: fast attack and release, transparency, easy to dial sound in. Cons: Can be too aggressive at times, stereo linking not available in the original hardware version.
DBX160 Compressor
This is another classic compressor that has been used on countless records. It boasts a very fast attack time which gives it the advantage of being able to grab transients quickly, as well as smooth and round off the sound nicely. Pros: Fast attack time, great for creating punchy drums and tight basslines. Cons: Like the UA 1176LN, can be too aggressive at higher settings and stereo linking not available in the hardware version.
Drawmer 1960 Compressor
The Drawmer 1960, this vacuum tube ‘soft knee’ compression unit is a favorite among mix engineers due to its versatility and ability to create very dense sounds. It’s known as an ‘all-rounder’ compressor, capable of handling any type of signal you throw at it. Pros: Versatile sound, good for creating dense sounds. Cons: Can sound artificial at higher settings.
SSL G-Series Compressor
The SSL G-Series compressor is a staple in modern music production, delivering the classic ‘SSL’ sound that has become associated with professional mixing and mastering. It’s known for its smooth and musical sound, which is great for creating rich and warm sounds. Pros: Smooth and musical sound, great for adding warmth to the mix. Cons: Can be too soft at higher settings.
Neve 33609 Compressor
The Neve 33609 compressor is a favourite among mastering engineers due to its precise control over compression levels and its ability to maintain tonal balance. It’s also known for its transparency and ability to preserve the clarity of a mix, whilst still delivering plenty of character. Pros: Precise control over compression levels, preserves clarity of a mix. Cons: Can be too subtle at higher settings.
API 2500 Compressor
The API 2500 is a compressor that’s known for its ability to add colour and character to any source. It’s also capable of delivering smooth, musical sounds and can even be used as an EQ in some cases. Pros: Adds character to the mix, good for creating smooth and musical sounds. Cons: Can be too coloured at higher settings.
Tube-Tech CL1B Compressor
The Tube-Tech CL1B compressor is renowned for its ability to add colour and depth to any audio source. It’s great for adding a vintage vibe to your sound and also works well with acoustic instruments. Pros: Adds colour and depth to the mix, great for adding a vintage vibe. Cons: Can be too coloured at higher settings.
Empirical Labs Distressor Compressor
The Distressor compressor is one of the most popular compressors, thanks to its ability to deliver both transparent and heavily coloured sounds with ease. It’s also known for its fast attack time, making it great for adding punch to drums and bass. Pros: Versatile sound, fast attack time. Cons: Can be too aggressive at higher settings.
Manley Variable MU Compressor
The Manley Variable Mu compressor is a classic tube compressor that’s known for its warm, smooth sound. It’s great for creating a vintage vibe, as well as adding depth to the mix. Pros: Warm and smooth sound, great for adding depth to the mix. Cons: Can be too coloured at higher settings.
Shadow Hills Dual Vandergraph Compressor
The Dual Vandergraph compressor is another popular choice among mix engineers, thanks to its ability to deliver a wide range of compression styles. It’s great for creating vintage-style sounds, as well as adding unique coloration to the mix. Pros: Versatile sound, great for creating vintage-style sounds. Cons: Can be too coloured at higher settings.
Phoenix Audio DRS-6 Compressor
The Phoenix Audio DRS-6 compressor is known for its smooth and musical sound, which makes it great for adding body to the mix without being too aggressive. It also features an adjustable sidechain filter for added control over frequencies. Pros: Smooth and musical sound, adjustable sidechain filter. Cons: Can be too soft at higher settings.