Solid State Logic launches Bus Comp Classic unit

Solid State Logic has introduced the Bus Comp Classic, a 1RU version of its iconic SSL Stereo Bus Compressor. The new unit aims to replicate the behavior of the original studio mainstay that has influenced music production for over five decades.

The hardware utilizes THAT 2181 VCAs in the audio path and a side-chain architecture featuring a VCA within the feedback loop to maintain responsive, musical behavior. A key addition is the Variable VCA Drive, a single control that allows users to transition from the low-distortion clarity of the SuperAnalogue lineage, such as the 9000 Series and Duality consoles, to the harmonic saturation characteristic of the FX384 and 4000 Series.

Designed for professional workflows, the unit includes stepped controls for Ratio, Attack, Release, and a six-position side-chain high-pass filter. It also features SSL Auto Release for program-dependent behavior and a true stereo external side-chain input, enabling engineers to process individual stems while using a full mix for detection.