VCA compressor
A VCA compressor is a kind of compressor that makes use of modulation. These compressors often have the typical compression parameters: attack, release, ratio, threshold, knee. They’re often used for bus tracks.
Below are some famous VCA compressors.
API 2500
- Very versatile!
- “Colorful”: even when threshold = +20 dB and bypassing compression, there’s still distortion in the signal
- Originally marketed as a bus compressor: you’ll often find it on a stereo bus or master bus
- Excels as a drum bus compressor too
- Tip: Useful for bringing down the cymbal level relative to snare + kick in OH mics using its “Loud” mode
- Has some sort of “aggressiveness” to it
dbx 160
- Alternative models: 160a, 160xt
- Originally designed with a hard knee
- Can be used downwards or upwards
- Quick attack and release
- Good for bringing out “punch” on drums
- Good on bass
- Has an “aggressive” character – not very subtle
SSL 4000 G
The SSL 4000 G is actually a full console, but it includes a compressor.
- Also versatile
- Has a “transparent” character
- Is a mix bus compressor
Notable plugins
API 2500:
dbx 160:
SSL 4000 G: