Tube Tech SMC 2b vs. Vari Mu

[jumpnyc]

Stereo Bus compression. What's the verdict? I was mostly mixing rock, now I do a lot for TV, and possibly film. I am looking for a great analog 2-bus compressor. Manley, Tube Tech, Alan Smart? Many have recommended the SMC 2b. I am only really familiar with the Vari Mu.

[syra]

I shot the vari-mu against the SMC-2B 1.5 years ago and since then I own the "blue monster". Flexibility was a key factor. The SMC 2B replaced in many occasions even my massive passive in the chain. Not that the vari-mu is not a good unit. I would audition both of them and see what I like best.

[NathanEldred]

I'd add the Pendulum, Buzz, and Crane Song to that list, especially for two bus.

[jumpnyc]

These are all good suggestions. Thanks for the input. Guess the old adage is true - got to listen and choose for myself. Thanks again. But hey - anyone who wants to add to this - it will be appreciated.

[C.Lambrechts]

Originally posted by Kent
These units are so different from each other that it is impossible to compare them.
Syra is spot-on about flexibility.

I agree. Although multiband compression is a cool thing ... it can also be a dangerous thing. Especially when used on the mix buss. You don't want to use it to 'make up' for whatever is lacking in the mix. And that can be tempting.


I usually set the low band to cross around 300 Hz ... medium slow to slow attack and release. treshold so that the meters 'wiggle' a bit up and down ... ratio button set round 12 o clock.

mid to high cross frequency depends ... that's the one I fiddle with the most ... I usually have the treshold set so compression kicks in a little earlier then with the low band. Ratio somewhat higher then the low band too. Attack and release on the fast side compared to the low band.

[The MPCist]

Originally posted by NathanEldred
I'd add the Pendulum, Buzz, and Crane Song to that list, especially for two bus.

Second the Cranesong, I use that on my Stereo Buss... after retiring the Varimu from that particular duty....