Golden Age Project COMP-54 MKII Plus
Key Features
- Single-Channel, Vintage-Style Compressor
- Integrated Carnhill Transformers
- Flexible Control Section For Ratio, Attack & Release
- Three Selectable Sidechain Filter Frequencies
- Retro-Style VU Metering
Golden Age Project COMP-54 MKII Plus Overview
Product Ref: 105036
Full Description
View Full DescriptionVintage-Style Compression
The Golden Age Project COMP-54 MKII brings vintage-style compression into the modern era with discrete class-A circuitry and a flexible control section. This single-channel configuration features transformer balanced line input and output connections. Before integrated circuits became available, the vintage compressors were comprised of components such as resistors, capacitors and transistors. This is what lends to the vintage-sound, giving that classic analog warmth and grit associated with older compression units. The internal circuitry is inspired and similar to the classic 2254 compressor, reducing a warm yet smooth, full-bodied sound.
Integrated Carnhill Transformers
The thing that sets the Plus version aside from the original MKII is the integrated Carnhill input and output transformers. These premium-grade transformers are designed to transform the way your tone sounds. The Transformers add vintage-style colouration for a truly retro tonal character. The result is a warm and gritty analog sound with a full-bodied response and silky highs.
Flexible Control Panel With Sidechaining
The in-depth control section is comprised of precision attenuators designed for changing the Ratio, Attack and Release settings. All the controls on the compressor except the Gain make-up control one are stepped for precise and trackable changes. The control section is comprised of Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, HPF, Gain and a Link control. The HPF control adds a high pass filter within the sidechain circuitry. These results in the frequencies below the filter cutoff to trigger compression at a lesser degree. This can be great for drums and vocals, acting as a cushion for a smoother and more rounded sound.
Design & Connectivity
The robust yet sleek all-metal chassis is built-to-last, basing its design on classic vintage-style compressors. One of the most prominent features of the design is the integrated, vintage-style VU meter which provides visual monitoring for your levels. The meter is also selectable, allowing you to toggle between Output and Gain Reduction settings. The versatile design also allows you to upgrade transformers with ease, should you want to use an external transformer. Its flexible design is suited to a wide range of input sources from microphone to electric guitars, basses, pianos and more. Additionally, the compressor comes complete with an external power supply, minimising interaction with the audio circuitry and transformers for strong signal integrity.
Features
- Vintage style electronics
- Integrated Carnhill transformers
- Based on classic diode bridge designs
- Prepared for transformer upgrade
- Flexible control range for Ratio, Attack and Release
- All controls except the Gain make-up one are stepped
- Three selectable Sidechain filter frequencies
- Separate Bypass and Compression IN/OUT switches
- Meter selectable for Output and Gain Reduction
- Possibility to Link two units for stereo operation
- Separate in- and output XLR and TRS jacks for flexible connections
- Back panel switch for 600 Ohm termination
- External power supply to avoid interaction with the audio circuitry and the transformers
- Great sound that suits most sound sources and genres
- A solid build quality that will last many years of normal use