Native Instruments take on the famous SSL G Bus Compressor. Apparently it’s solid.
History of the hardware
Introduced in 1987 as part of the SSL 4000 series console, the G Bus Compressor was designed to apply compression across a stereo bus rather than individual channels. Built into the console’s center section, it became a go-to tool for controlling mix dynamics with its VCA-based gain reduction and auto fade function. Over time, standalone rack units and 500-series versions were developed, keeping the original circuit design.
The Plugin
The Native Instruments “Solid” series of plugins emulates the channel EQ, channel compressor, and bus compressor of the SSL 4000 series.
Compare this to a few other SSL G Bus compressors emulations:
Ideas
- The SC Gain is helpful when using another channel as the side chain. Let’s say you want to compress the bass using the kick drum signal. You can use this control to push up the level of the kick entering the compressor (and therefore how it responds) without actually making the kick louder.
- You can unlink how the compressor treats the left and right channel. Not sure how true this is to the original intent or sound, but go for it if you want.
- The “typical” master bus setting is a 30ms attack, auto release, and a 4:1 ratio, with the threshold adjusted for around 1-2 dB of gain reduction on the loudest parts. Obviously, you can set it however you like, but this is the one people always wonder about.
Tests
