5.1 Analog compression - which units to choose

[merge]

Hi fellow slutonians,

I am looking to find a compressor solution for 5.1 mixing in the analog domain. As I am mixing OTB, I would like to know what y'all advise is the best way to go regarding 5.1 compression. As a guide to my sonic mixbuss compressor taste, I like the sound of my Roll Music RMS755 which is of course a stereo unit. Could I simply use 3 of these for surround compression? Is linking the compressor channels essential to maintaining the surround soundstage? Should I look for a Xlogic Multichannel compressor as a similar-ish sound to the RMS755?

thanks in advance.

cheers,
merge

[seriousfun]

Originally Posted by merge

... Is linking the compressor channels essential to maintaining the surround soundstage? ...

Yes. Fight the current misguided urge to unlink stereo compression :-)

Drawmer Six Pack comes to mind.

[merge]

Originally Posted by seriousfun

Yes. Fight the current misguided urge to unlink stereo compression :-)

Drawmer Six Pack comes to mind.

thx Doug, much appreciate advice!

[mwagener]

Originally Posted by merge

Hi fellow slutonians,

I am looking to find a compressor solution for 5.1 mixing in the analog domain. As I am mixing OTB, I would like to know what y'all advise is the best way to go regarding 5.1 compression. As a guide to my sonic mixbuss compressor taste, I like the sound of my Roll Music RMS755 which is of course a stereo unit. Could I simply use 3 of these for surround compression? Is linking the compressor channels essential to maintaining the surround soundstage? Should I look for a Xlogic Multichannel compressor as a similar-ish sound to the RMS755?

thanks in advance.

cheers,
merge

I like the TC M6000 for 5.1 compression (and also the available GML EQ in the M6000 for the 5.1 Master bus), very convenient. I rather not use the compressors linked, because I don't want to have my vocals in the front push down the keyboard pad or reverb in the surrounds. Also, without the linking you could use any 3 stereo or 6 mono compressors.

[tsvisser]

I haven't used it, but always see it on their website...
AMS Neve 8051
AMS Neve Ltd.

Although linking multiple units is inherently what the 8051 does or any other multichannel compressor for that matter. however, I do not think that compressing all channels the same would be typical, as there are very little similarities that exist between the surround channels and the main LCR in almost all instances. The AMS-Neve unit seems to address this by using multiple sidechain busses. Of course you can do the same with multiple mono or stereo units, but this seems to be a 1 box solution for good workflow, and it probably doesn't suck.

[muziekschuur]

Remember that surround sound (DTS tracks in particular) usually are mixed in such a way that it has more dynamics in it's signal. To achieve such a signal linked compressors would work in a more limiter kind of way. This could work counterproductive. (another way to say the same thing M. Wagner is saying I guess.

I do feel that a SSL kinda compressor is a kind of box wich changes the sound even if it is not really working as a compressor. It just polishes the sound rather than doing a compressor kinda thing.

So if you are looking for a signature 5.1. sound so you can authograph your mixes then you are looking for a signature soundbox rather than looking for a 5.1. compressor......

[diapasound]

There are a few companies who have done some custom linking of multiple stereo models. I don't know if it's something they do often, but I'm sure it's not cheap.

I've seen and heard a setup of 3 API 2500s that was pretty killer as well as a setup of 6 Cranesong Trakkers, also very nice.

If there is a certain stereo compressor sound that you really like it could be interesting to look into buying two more and having them modded in a way that all channels can have adjustable linking. You will want to have the L and R linked, the LS and RS linked, but also the C variably linked to the L and R, and the Front variably linked to the Back. The LFE...well, I prefer to leave that alone ;-)

If you're looking for a very capable and versatile solution I would just look into the M6000. No, it's not analog, but it's a great way to experiment with surround compression before trying to choose what you need in an analog solution. (Plus, it has a lot of other tricks.)

Jeremy
Diapason

[merge]

Thanks mighty men of 5.1 compression lore.

I have thought about your comments, garnered input from elsewhere and arrived at a solution. Apart from compressor behaviour and functionality I place the tonal character of an audio device high on my list of requirements. As we know, each mix requires it's own unique processing chain and for this reason I have chosen to do the truely slutty thing and cover several options by purchasing an SSL Xlogix multichannel, Neve 8051 and a TC M6000. I will of course be able to employ these devices in other scenarios other than as 5.1 bus compressors which will be very convernient to say the least.

Thanks again to all who contributed.

[tsvisser]

For my compensation or shall we say finder's fee, I will take a Neve 8051 from you as a charitable gift!

...or at least please get back to use with a full review and dare I say "shootout" of the 3 units. I have a feeling that each one will have its own character and find use at some point or other.

[mtstudios@charter]

I love stereo compression, but IMO you don't need to compress the entire 5.1 like you might a stereo mix, simply because you do not have to cram everything into 2 speakers.

Blue Thumb Productions-Audio Production Facilities

[MIKEHARRIS]

Originally Posted by merge

Thanks mighty men of 5.1 compression lore.

I have thought about your comments, garnered input from elsewhere and arrived at a solution. Apart from compressor behaviour and functionality I place the tonal character of an audio device high on my list of requirements. As we know, each mix requires it's own unique processing chain and for this reason I have chosen to do the truely slutty thing and cover several options by purchasing an SSL Xlogix multichannel, Neve 8051 and a TC M6000. I will of course be able to employ these devices in other scenarios other than as 5.1 bus compressors which will be very convernient to say the least.

Thanks again to all who contributed.

The 6000 does not come with MD5.1...unless you purchase the mastering version. Be sure to also get the GML EQ option as Mr Wagener has mentioned.
If you did get the mastering version...surround reverb is an option

[Jim@SSL]

I'm a very big fan of the M6000. During my time working for TC I even wrote some presets for it. MD5.1 and the "DXP" mode are fantastic for mastering purposes. Absolutey incredible box - and you'll get some stunning reverbs too (and my super-duper delay presets)


However, if you are using it for mixing and like the kind of "grab" you get with your 2Bus then the only thing on the market that will do it is the XLogic 5.1 comp.



BTW - you can also use this in "dual Stereo" mode to add 2 more Bus comps to your arsenal. Just a thought. Forgive the blatent support of the company I work for...

[merge]

Well, there are definitely some differing opinions as to the application of compression over the master busses in 5.1. As I am soon to be mixing 5.1 entirely in the analog domain (Tonelux MX 5.1 system) I just can't go past the need for some gentle analog compression grab. I have been intending on purchasing a NEVE 8051 for some time (my dealer has one in stock for a very enticing price). I also have been after a mastering version of the TC 6000 with additional algorithms but have yet been able to source one at truely friendly audio professional prices (2nd hand always considered).

Anyhow, I guess many people are mixing surround in digital boards and ITB as it is extemely convenient and potentially more cost effective. However, I just can't go past that analog summing and tone!