Compressors & Limiters

Compressors and limiters are essential dynamics processors used throughout recording, mixing and mastering. From early valve and variable-mu designs to FET, VCA and optical circuits, hardware compressors have shaped the control, punch and tonal character of recorded sound across decades of studio production.

This archive covers both vintage studio compressors and modern hardware designs, including faithful recreations and contemporary interpretations of classic circuits. From original units produced in the 1960s and 1970s to current production models and replicas, these dynamics processors remain central to professional studio workflows.

Decades
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2024 /
The AudioScape MK-609 is a modern take on the classic “Metal Knob” 33609, offering dual-channel diode-bridge compression with added features like a high-pass filter and “Super Fast” attack mode. It combines vintage tone with modern versatility, perfect for vocals, drums, and stereo mixes.
Made In Finland
Released in 2024 /
The Knif Solmu is a mastering-grade analogue compressor with MOSFET variable-mu character, advanced harmonic control and comprehensive MS and parallel processing capabilities.
Made In China
Released in 2024 /
The Z&H Designs 1178 Mastering Stereo Peak Limiter is a mastering-ready recreation of the classic UREI 1178, featuring stepped controls, M/S mode, sidechain HPF, and hand-matched channels for precise, versatile FET compression.
Made In Chile
Released in 2024 /
The Stam SA-1B is a faithful, hand-crafted replica of the Danish 1B opto compressor, offering the same tone, frequency response, and silky compression as the original. It features custom transformers, a bespoke opto element, and modern upgrades like a dry/wet blend, side-chain HPF, bypass, and stereo link. Built with meticulous care, it delivers vintage character with modern functionality.
Made In Chile
Released in 2024 /
The Stam SA-609 MK3+ combines four iconic 33609 revisions with Carnhill transformers and BA-440 op-amps for authentic vintage tone. Modern features include slow and fast attack options, sidechain HPF, mix blend, and stereo/dual mono modes. Ideal for mix buses, drums, and vocals, it offers classic character with modern versatility.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2024 /
Building on the renowned design of the Acme Opticom XLA-3, Acme Audio has meticulously adapted its topology into a compact two-slot 500 series module with the Acme Opticom XLA-500 Limiter.
Made In China
Released in 2024 /
The Warm Audio WA76-A and WA76-A2 are vintage-style FET compressors inspired by the classic 1176 “Blue Stripe.” The WA76-A is a single-channel unit, ideal for vocals and instruments, featuring ultra-fast attack, CineMag transformers, and parallel compression. The WA76-A2 offers two independent channels with stereo linking, making it perfect for stereo bus processing or dual-mono setups. Both models deliver the iconic punch and warmth, making them versatile tools for professional dynamic control.
Made In China
Released in 2024 /
The Warm Audio WA76-D and WA76-D2 are vintage-style FET compressors inspired by the classic “Rev D” 1176. The WA76-D is a single-channel unit with parallel compression, sidechain input, and stereo linking, while the WA76-D2 offers dual independent channels with internal stereo linking for versatile stereo or dual-mono processing. Both models deliver fast attack, rich harmonics, and professional dynamic control with modern features.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2025 /
The Black Lion Audio Level-Loc is a boutique recreation of the original, rare hardware compressor, developed in close collaboration with Shure, who created the original unit. This modern version delivers the same aggressive compression and saturated tone as the vintage model, now enhanced with updated connectivity and expanded control for today’s studio workflows.
Made In Poland
Released in 2025 /
The WesAudio ngTubeComp is a next-generation vari-mu valve compressor combining classic analogue warmth with modern digital control. With a fully analogue signal path, six valves, and four transformers, it delivers rich, musical dynamics. It offers dual mono, stereo, and mid-side operation, plus switchable valve and electronically balanced outputs.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2025 /
The AEA 1029 Stereo VCA Compressor combines Forssell’s discrete op-amp design with THAT 4305 VCAs for versatile, transparent compression in a compact half-rack format, perfect for both subtle control and aggressive dynamic shaping.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2025 /
The Lang P.LANE Type 436 is a modern tube vari-mu compressor based on the modified ALTEC 436C, offering classic British Invasion tone, expanded time constant options and robust studio-grade connectivity in a compact 2U design.