Product details

The Solid State Logic SSL THE BUS+ is a professional, digitally controlled analogue stereo bus compressor designed for mixing, mastering, and precision dynamics processing. Building on the legendary SSL Bus Compressor circuit, it combines classic VCA compression with three selectable sonic colour modes, a two-band analogue Dynamic EQ, and four operating configurations. With stepped controls for accurate manual recall, adjustable sidechain filtering, parallel compression, and an unlockable Transient Expander, THE BUS+ offers exceptional flexibility for mix buses, drum buses, stereo stems, and individual sources.

Key Features

Classic SSL Bus Compressor: Retains the signature VCA compression circuit associated with SSL consoles, using high-performance THAT 2181 VCAs.
Four Operating Modes: Choose Classic Stereo, Σ Sidechain Stereo, Dual Mono, or Mid-Side operation.
Three Compression Colour Modes:
- LOW THD: Reduces low-frequency distortion caused by compression.
- F/B: Uses feedback compression for a smoother, more relaxed response.
- 4K MODE: Adds variable harmonic distortion and character inspired by early SSL 4000-series designs.
Two-Band Analogue Dynamic EQ (D-EQ): Provides independent low- and high-frequency compression or expansion for precise tonal shaping.
Selectable EQ Frequencies: Sixteen frequency choices per band, with adjustable range from 0.5 dB to 15 dB.
Variable Sidechain High-Pass Filter: Controls how much low-frequency energy triggers compression.
Parallel Compression: Dedicated MIX control blends compressed and uncompressed signals.
Extended Ratio Selection: Includes classic compression ratios, low ratios for mastering, and negative ratios for creative effects.
Flexible Attack and Release: Offers additional time constants, including Auto 2, for different programme material.
External Sidechain Connections: Supports external sidechain input and send for advanced dynamics routing.
Configurable Processing Order: Place the Bus Compressor before or after the D-EQ.
Moving-Coil Gain Reduction Meters: Provide clear visual feedback during compression.
Stepped Controls: Precisely repeat settings through stepped front-panel controls, without requiring onboard preset storage.
Unlockable Transient Expander: Adds transient enhancement for greater punch and attack definition.
High Headroom: Supports professional analogue signal levels up to +27.5 dBu.

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Analogue Stereo Bus Compressor / Dynamic EQ
Processing Architecture: 100% analogue audio path with digitally controlled stepped potentiometers
Form Factor: 19-inch, 2U rack-mount
Channels: Stereo, Dual Mono, or Mid-Side configurations
Compressor Circuit: SSL Bus Compressor design with THAT 2181 VCAs
Operating Modes: Classic Stereo, Σ Sidechain Stereo, Dual Mono, Mid-Side
Compression Colours: LOW THD, F/B, 4K MODE
Compression Ratios: Classic ratios, mastering-oriented low ratios, and creative negative ratios
Dynamic EQ: Two-band analogue parallel Dynamic EQ
EQ Frequency Selection: 16 selectable frequencies per band
Dynamic EQ Range: 0.5 dB–15 dB per band
Dynamic EQ Modes: Compression and expansion, with selectable time constants
High-Frequency EQ: Switchable shelf or bell response
Sidechain: Variable high-pass filter, external sidechain input and send
Parallel Processing: Dedicated MIX control
Metering: Moving-coil gain reduction meters
Operating Level: Selectable 0 dB nominal, +10 dB, or −5 dB settings
Maximum Headroom: +27.5 dBu
Analogue Inputs: Balanced stereo XLR inputs and external sidechain inputs
Analogue Outputs: Balanced stereo XLR outputs and external sidechain sends
Power Connection: IEC mains inlet
Power Switch: Rear-panel power switch, with manual sleep and auto-sleep modes