Description
The COMP-554 MKII is a single-channel, vintage-style compressor designed for the 500-format. It features a fully discrete signal path, utilising resistors, capacitors and transistors rather than integrated circuits, offering a warm, smooth and musical character reminiscent of classic vintage gear. Both input and output are transformer balanced, with an additional interstage transformer providing enhanced tonal richness. The class-A circuit is inspired by the legendary 2254 compressor, delivering a sound that has been sought after for decades across countless recordings. Flexible control over threshold, ratio, attack and recovery ensures it adapts seamlessly to a wide range of sound sources and genres. With selectable sidechain filters and flexible sidechain routing, plus the ability to link two units for stereo operation, the COMP-554 MKII brings professional studio performance in a compact 500-series module. Soft start circuitry protects components on power-up, and optional transformer upgrades provide further tonal refinement, making this unit a versatile and affordable way to achieve a classic compressor sound loved by engineers and musicians alike.
Key Features:
- Vintage Style Electronics:
The compressor uses only discrete components, offering a warm, musical sound that closely resembles classic 1960s audio designs. - Flexible Sidechain Options:
Three selectable filter frequencies and multiple routing options allow precise control over compression response and tonal shaping. - Transformer Balanced Input and Output:
High-quality transformers on input, output and interstage deliver superior clarity, depth and richness in the audio signal.
Classic 2254 Inspired Circuit:
The COMP-554 MKII is built around a class-A diode bridge design, inspired by the 1969 2254 compressor. This circuit produces the warm, smooth, sweet character that has made the original a studio legend. It works effectively on vocals, drums, guitars and full mixes, providing musical compression that enhances rather than colours the source.
Versatile Control and Operation:
With stepped controls for threshold, ratio, attack and recovery, plus gain make-up, the unit allows precise adjustment for any application. Hardwire bypass, compression out switches, and Air EQ options offer additional tonal flexibility. Stereo linking and insert points for EQ-573 expand creative possibilities.
Professional Reliability and Build Quality:
The unit features soft start circuitry to protect against power-on surges, electronically balanced external sidechain I/O and durable construction. Prepared for optional Carnhill transformer upgrades, it ensures long-term reliability and professional-grade performance in any studio environment.
Specifications:
- Single-channel 500-series compressor
- Fully discrete class-A signal path
- Transformer balanced input and output with an interstage transformer
- Flexible control: threshold, ratio, attack, recovery, gain make-up
- Three selectable sidechain filter frequencies
- Internal, insert, and external sidechain routing
- External sidechain I/O electronically balanced @ 4dBu
- Hardwire bypass and compression out switches
- Insert connectors for EQ-573
- Meter selectable for output level or gain reduction
- Stereo linking capability
- Air EQ switch: Flat, +3dB, +6dB @ 30 kHz
- Output termination switch for tonal variation
- Soft start power-up circuit (~10 sec)
