Great 500 Series Compressor?

[alexw_scott]

I'm looking into getting two of the same compressors for my 500 series rack and linking them together.

I have heard that the API 527 sounds amazing on kick and when linked together they are somewhat like a API 2500. Hoping this is true!

I know Rupert Neve has a good compressor and so does Chandler.

Any thoughts one what I should get?

Thanks,
Alex

[erikdrink]

This would've been my choice.

[schmuck]

Cannot comment on those you listed (apart that the retro above looks very cool). If you like VCA compression SSL style you should check out the Dramastic Audio Obsidian. I like mine very much it is very versatile and sounds fantastic on drums and mixes where you want to "hear" the compressor.

[erikdrink]

Dramastic Audio Obsidian sure looks sweet...

[jrod9900]

I have one 527. I really like it. I have only used it on kick, snare, and electric guitars. I really like it on snare because even with 1-3dB of rreduction, it seems to just thicken up the snare nicely. It can be very transparent or in your face.

It is not a set and go unit and does take some compressor knowledge to use. But when you find the right settings, they are very rewarding.

I would definitely get another for a pair!

Jrod

[jrod9900]

I have one 527. I really like it. I have only used it on kick, snare, and electric guitars. I really like it on snare because even with 1-3dB of rreduction, it seems to just thicken up the snare nicely. It can be very transparent or in your face.

It is not a set and go unit and does take some compressor knowledge to use. But when you find the right settings, they are very rewarding.

I would definitely get another for a pair!

Jrod

[alexw_scott]

Thanks guys!

[once a roadie]

Foote p3500. Alta moda am10. Chandler little d. API.


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[Cody]

Love the 527, definitely going to add a pair back into my setup in the future. Takes a bit to set up as stated, but when it's on... it's on!

I have been looking at the Atlas Pro Audio Leviathan lately... really want to try it out! I like the idea of having a button for preset compression in the style of LA-2/LA-3 compression. If this is something you're looking for, might be worth a look see!

-- edit

I don't have any affiliation with APA or anything... hope that didn't come off as a big dose of hype, I just really want to try this compressor!

[zutou]

I have been looking at the Atlas Pro Audio Leviathan lately... really want to try it out! I like the idea of having a button for preset compression in the style of LA-2/LA-3 compression. If this is something you're looking for, might be worth a look see!

[RCM - Ronan]

Originally Posted by erikdrink

Dramastic Audio Obsidian sure looks sweet...

I tried that at NAMM and loved it. A buddy just ordered one so I am going to give it some serious testing.

I use and love the Pete's Place BAC-500. Great if you want something with some character.

[kraku]

Just wondering: Is the 527 kinda like one channel 2500?

[RedWallStudio]

Really really like my Shadow Hills Dual Vandergraph.. very big sounding for a 500 series comp.

[thesoundpost]

My rack holds a BAC-500, The Brute and a 525 But my favorite is still the Buzz Audio Essence. I have two of them and sometimes use them linked. Lots of fine tuning options and very robust sounding. It's hard to make it sound bad and is not a good choice if you're looking for more 'obvious' compression. Otherwise it's a first class compressor that sounds especially great on vocals and bass guitar. Of course this is just my opinion. YMMV :-)

Marty.

[cheu78]

I'd seriously consider the Tonelux TX5C..it has the linking feature as well! sounds great and it's very versatile..on drums is amazing..From clean to squashed..whatever you want..Paul Wolff knows his stuff (after all he designed the 2500 ) I'm using one right now (I'm also selling one in the classifieds for 800$...new are 950$).

The Retro Doublewide looks really nice and I'm sure it's great..retro stuff is top notch..(the only "downside" is burning 4 slots if you need two.

Agreed on the Dramastic Obsidian..very nice piece! If you look for an SSLish buss comp.. This one is amazing!

Can't go wrong with these..

Just my 0.02$,

Cheu

[Magucci]

Elysia Xpressor 500 is another alternative.

It's already stereo and very good sounding comp for 500 series.

The price is more than affordable for a stereo comp.

[John Willett]

I would say the new Grace m502 is worth a look.