Modeled after a unique compressor built from coveted console parts
Built in 1978 by the legendary Townhouse studio engineers, this one-of-kind compressor was created using classic console components supplied by Solid State Logic (SSL). Handmade in an era when it was impossible to buy an external SSL buss compressor off the shelf, this unique hardware unit was used heavily during the 80s and beyond by some of the biggest names in rock, including Queen, Sting, Muse, Oasis, Coldplay, Ozzy Osbourne, Phil Collins and many more.
That famous SSL tone, but with even more mojo
The bx_townhouse Buss Compressor is the ultimate companion for your mix buss, offering just a touch more vibe and mojo than a standard British console buss compressor. While existing plugins model the G Series version of the SSL compressor; none of them have attempted to capture the early SSL buss compressor sound, despite it being favored by so many sound engineers. Brainworx has taken on the challenge to reproduce this unique SSL compressor sound, gaining exclusive access to this precious one-of-a-kind circuit.
Buss compression that oozes rock history
Shortly after taking delivery of their new SSL 4000 B Series console, the staff of The Townhouse asked SSL to sell them a standalone version of their console's center section compressor. But SSL didn't sell a standalone version, and wouldn't for another 10 years. So they took the matter into their own hands, striking a deal to buy the individual components from SSL to make their own modified version based on SSL’s schematics. The result became one of their beloved custom “Townhouse Toys”. The Townhouse Studios underwent many upgrades over the years, but one important detail remained consistent: this ever-present Townhouse Buss Compressor prominently placed in Studio 1.
Even more character than your average bus compressor plugin
Many boutique hardware makers have latched on to the sound of the earliest SSL buss compressors. But until now, there has been no software emulation available that aims to reproduce this older and even more colorful version of the SSL bus compressor sound. Place the bx_Townhouse on your busses for instant attitude, and a wonderfully colorful squeeze that will make any “in the box” mix feel more analog.