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Key Features
The Golden Age Project COMP-554 is a vintage-style 500 series compressor that's absolutely packed with vintage character. Based on the rare and sought-after designs of classic diode bridge compressors, the COMP-554's design consists of discrete components as opposed to integrated circuits, allowing you to maximise this single-channel compressor's smooth, musical flavour that'll shine on any signal you need it to. With optional stereo linking, you can even chain two units together for a punchy mix bus brimming with old-school sound.
The COMP-554 also features stepped controls for everything except makeup gain, allowing you to quickly recall and accurately recreate your favourite settings for specific sources, while still providing full adjustment over levels so you can tuck any sound into the mix just as you need it. Rounded out by a switchable Air EQ to boost the treble of the result, for a sweetened high-end sheen when you need it, the COMP-554 is the best of modern design meshed with the warm, characterful sound of vintage units blended together.
Product Ref: 105039
The COMP-54 bases its design on the classic diode bridge that has been widely used in vintage compressors and musical equipment. The decision not to include integrated circuits ensures you capture the very essence of vintage compressors. The signal patch utilises Class-A discrete circuitry for optimised audio performance, generating a unique tonal character that is similar to the classic 2254 compressor. The resulting sound is musical, full-bodied and warm; reminiscent of compressors from the late 70s and early 80s. It boasts a transformer balanced input and output, allowing you to use a variety of musical equipment and instruments. The combination of premium-grade components and vintage-style compression captures the sound used on many popular recordings in music history.
The comprehensive control section features a variety of different controls, allowing you to dial in your required levels with ease. All the controls are stepped apart from the gain make-up, giving you advanced precision that you can mark down for use as a preset FOR LATE USE. It features standard compressor controls such as Threshold, Attack, Ratio, Gain and Release. It also features an integrated high pass filter with three selectable sidechain filter frequencies. It comes complete with a three flexible settings comprised of: Internal, Insert and External. This gives you a variety of options when it comes to sidechaining. Using the external sidechain I/O, the compressor ensure it is electronically balanced @ 4dBu. It also includes separate switches for hardwire bypass and compression output for added flexibility. Additionally, the unit features a three position Air EQ switch, allowing you to further shape your sound.
Keeping in line with the Golden Age Project aesthetic, the COMP-554 boasts a vintage-style design with retro attenuators and an eye-catching red finish. One of the most prominent features of the COMP-554 is the VU meter, providing precise visual monitoring for your levels. The meter can be used to select between output and gain reduction levels for added versatility. The internal circuit board is also prepared for use with Carnhill transformers as an upgrade; allowing you to further accentuate your sound. It includes two insert connectors for incorporating the EQ-573 in the main audio/sidechain signal path. The versatile design allows you to link together two units for stereo operation. There is also a two-position output termination switch for varying tones.