My 5 Favorite Plugins For Applying Parallel Compression

1. 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!

2. 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 parallel

compression task with grace and musicality. It’s got an incredibly transparent sound that

enhances mixes without adding any color or tonal shift.

3. FabFilter’s Pro-C 2

Known for its gorgeous interface, flexible sidechain filtering, and wide variety of compression

styles, FabFilter’s Pro-C 2 is the compressor of choice for many modern mixers. While I don’t

find it to be as musical as the Oxford, its auto-release function can deliver better results on

tracks with complex dynamics (like acoustic piano).

4. McDSP’s 6030 Ultimate Compressor

The 6030 features 10 (yes…10!) compressor modules in a single interface! The modules range

from emulations of studio classics like the 1176 and LA-2A, to custom creations like the FRG

444 and iComp. The 1176 and LA-2A are spot on, and a bit more hi-fi than those in Waves’ CLA

Classic Compressors bundle. Also, nothing beats the Over EZ on drums!

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.

For more mixing tips and tricks, visit BehindTheSpeakers.com.

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