Full Description
View Full Description
Shape compression around your sound
The Bus+ retains the authentic SSL Bus Compressor circuit while giving you three ways to change its compression character. LOW THD mode modifies the side-chain to reduce low-frequency distortion caused by compression, particularly when using fast release times. This helps keep your bottom end cleaner during gain reduction.
F/B mode takes the side-chain feed from after the main gain-reduction VCA, creating a more relaxed response compared with the traditional Bus Compressor grab. For added colour, 4K mode uses single-VCA operation with adjustable harmonic distortion, letting you introduce extra thickness, grit, and grunge when your material calls for more character.
Choose the right processing configuration
Different material can call for different approaches, so The Bus+ provides four operating modes. Classic Stereo gives you a familiar linked setup, while Σ S/C Stereo, Dual Mono, and Mid-Side modes open up more detailed ways to control stereo signals. External side-chain inputs and sends provide additional routing options, and expanded attack and release settings include the Auto 2 release mode.
Negative ratios can be used for creative pumping effects or controlling particularly loud signals. There’s also an unlockable Transient Expander for further shaping. If you want parallel compression, the dedicated MIX control lets you blend processed and unprocessed signals directly on the unit.
Apply dynamic control to specific frequencies
The two-band D-EQ brings dynamic equalisation into The Bus+ analog signal path. Instead of applying a fixed boost or cut, each band changes its gain in response to signal level once the set threshold is exceeded. This lets you alter the contrast between material below and above that threshold, providing targeted control over changing frequency content.
Each band offers 16 selectable frequency points, while the high-frequency band can switch between shelf and bell filter responses. Its 31-position control moves from compression through a central zero position into expansion. Plus, you can place the D-EQ before or after the Bus Compressor for different processing results.
Return to detailed settings more easily
Precise recall matters when you’re revisiting mixes or working on mastering applications. Every pot on The Bus+ is stepped and read by a microcontroller, which translates its position into the required circuit configuration or electrical parameter. As well as making settings easier to document and reproduce, this approach means processing is not subject to conventional pot tolerances.
Precision MDAC-controlled make-up gain gives you two ranges, with adjustments available in 1 dB or finer 0.5 dB steps. You can also select operating levels of 0 dB, +10 dB, or -5 dB. Moving-coil gain-reduction meters provide visual feedback, while dedicated CH 1 IN and CH 2 IN controls provide global bypass functionality.
Features
- Flagship incarnation of an industry classic
- The ultimate studio bus compressor, perfect for any audio application from mixing to mastering
- Comprised of top-of-the-line components including high-performance 2181 THAT VCAs
- Four modes of operation make it suitable for any audio source, including classic stereo, Sidechain Stereo, Dual Mono or Mid-side
- Fine-tuned Attack and Release control times, including all-new 'Auto 2' setting
- Three colouration options add slight variety and flavour to your tone and can be used individually or simultaneously
- 4K mode operates with single VCA, adding grit to your sound through variable harmonic distortion
- Low THD mode cleans the bottom-end for a more controlled compression setting by effectively reducing low-frequency distortion
- Reduce the intensity of your compression with F/B mode for a more relaxed sound
- Unrivalled sonic fidelity, with crystal clear signal integrity and tonal balance
- Stepped controls pair perfectly with mastering applications
- Two-band dynamic EQ offers low and high-frequency suppression under extreme compression settings
- High-frequency transient expander allows you to add attack back to heavily compressed audio signals
- Configurable processing order to move compression pre or post EQ
- External side-chain inputs and sends for integration with other outboard units
- Leave your low-end un-compressed with a variable high-pass filter up to 300Hz in steps of 10Hz
- Run your signal in parallel using mix control for powerful parallel compression techniques
Specifications
Audio Performance
- Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz +/-0.05dB
- THD+N:
- -88 dB / 0.004% typical - LF In, 40 Hz at 0 dBu
- -81 dB / 0.008% typical - HF In, 10 kHz at 0 dBu, 40 kHz BW
- Headroom: Less than 27 dB
- Noise:
- -90 dBu typical LF-in
- -87 dBu typical HF-in
- LF Gain Accuracy: +/-0.05 dB typical - LF In, 40 Hz at 0 dBu: -10 dB to +10 dB
- HF Gain Accuracy: +/-0.05 dB typical - HF In, 10 kHz at 0 dBu: -10 dB to +10 dB
- Stereo Matching:
- Less than 0.05 dB - LF/HF In, 20 Hz to 20 kHz at 0 dBu
- Less than 0.1dB - LF In, 40 Hz, any gain change
- Less than 0.1dB - HF In, 10 kHz, any gain change
Power
- Power Supply: Auto-Ranging 100-240 VAC
- Operating Power: 38 Watts
- Sleep Power: Less than 1 Watt
- Auto-Sleep Power: 10 Watts
Physical
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 88 x 480 x 328 mm
- Weight: 5.92Kg
Connections
- Inputs: Female XLR x2
- External Inputs: Female XLR x2
- Outputs: Male XLR x2
- External Sends: Male XLR x2
General
