My 5 Favorite Mix Bus Compressor Plugins

Hey! Hope you enjoyed reading my article on mix bus compression. Here are 5 of my favorite mix bus compressors…

1. Sonnox’s Oxford Dynamics

Sporting an algorithm originally designed by world-renowned engineer Paul Frindle (known for creating the legendary SSL G-series bus compressor), the Oxford can nail nearly any mix bus compression task with grace and musicality. It’s got an incredibly transparent sound that enhances mixes without adding any color or tonal shift.

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2. Slate’s FG-Grey (part of their Virtual Bus

Compressors package)

Slate’s FG-Grey is a souped-up emulation of an SSL G-series bus compressor (perhaps the most iconic mix bus compressor of all time). It’s got a bright, snappy sound that pairs well with most modern genres. The added high-pass filter and mix knob can be a lifesaver!

3. UAD’s Neve 33609

The Neve 33609 was derived from the Neve 2254, a compressor built in the late 1960’s. Though it’s a VCA compressor like the SSL, it’s got a completely different sound – smoother, warmer, and not as aggressive. I’ve never used an original, but I find UAD’s emulation works well on mixes with complex and unpredictable dynamics.

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4. Waves’ API 2500

Waves’ API 2500 emulation is more flexible than most compressors. A wide range of controls, including adjustable knee, sidechain “thrust” control, and a feedback/feedforward switch allow it to emulate a range of classic and modern compressors. You can’t go wrong with this one!

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5. UAD’s Fairchild 670

The Fairchild’s uber-slow release time can works wonders on downtempo ballads. It’s also got an incredibly colored sound that will add heaps of character to any mix. This one’s a bit of a one-trick pony, but when it works, there’s nothing like it.

© Behind The Speakers | behindthespeakers.com

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