COMPER: Your All-Purpose Dynamic Processing Tool
In the world of recording and mixing, compression is one of the most important tools that shapes the character of a track, controls dynamics, and adds glue. But what if a single plugin could offer not only effective control but also a wealth of timbral shades, allowing you to adapt to any musical situation? Meet COMPER: Analog Obsession’s COMPER, a multi-mode serial compressor designed to give unparalleled flexibility and a unique sound to your tracks.
The heart of the plugin: Serial Compression
COMPER is not a typical compressor. Its basic architecture is two compressors connected in series. This opens up a whole world of possibilities for subtle or aggressive dynamic processing. The first compressor, labeled “INTERNAL,” operates solely on the basis of the internal signal. The second, “INTERNAL/EXTERNAL”, can use both the internal and external side-chain. This serial combination allows you to realize complex compression scenarios: for example, the first stage can gently smooth out the overall dynamics, while the second stage can tame peaks or add aggressive character. You can use them to consistently saturate a signal or to control the dynamic range in multiple stages, giving you much more control and creativity than a single compressor.
Magic Modes: VCA, FET, OPTO and their Combinations
The true uniqueness of COMPER is revealed in its multi-mode functionality. Each of the two compressors has three independent compression schemes that mimic classic hardware solutions:
- VCA: Often associated with clean, fast and accurate compression. Great for controlling transients.
- FET: Known for its aggressive attack and rich, somewhat “dirty” character. Ideal for adding punch and presence.
- OPTO: Provides soft, musical and smooth compression with a natural release. A great choice for vocals and instruments that require delicate processing.
But the best part is that these modes are NOT mutually exclusive. You can activate one, two, or even all three modes simultaneously for each of the compressors! This is the “Blendable” function, which allows you to mix the characteristics of different compression schemes in parallel. The plugin automatically sums the output signals of the selected schemes, distributing their contribution: 100% for one mode, 50/50% for two, or 33.33% for each when using all three. This allows you to create completely unique, complex compression timbres that are unattainable with traditional plug-ins. Imagine combining a fast FET attack with a smooth OPTO release, or pure VCA control with FET saturation – the possibilities are almost endless!
Detailed Controls and Additional Features
COMPER provides a complete set of controls for fine-tuning each of the two compressors:
- THRESHOLD: From +10 dB to -20 dB, allows you to precisely set the trigger level.
- RATIO: From 1:1 (useful for transformer-only coloration without compression) to 20:1, for soft equalization or hard limiting.
- ATTACK: From 0.1 to 50 ms, adjusts how fast the compressor reacts to the input signal.
- RELEASE: From 0.05 to 2 seconds, determines how quickly the compressor returns to its initial state.
- HPF (Side-chain): A high-pass filter from 20 to 750 Hz in the side-chain. An indispensable tool to prevent low frequencies (e.g., bass drum) from causing excessive compression of the entire signal.
- INPUT: +/-15 dB. Allows you to adjust the level of the signal entering the compression circuit. It is useful for “pushing” the signal into the compressor to obtain greater saturation.
- MAKE-UP: +/-15 dB. Compensates for the output level after compression.
- MIX: Allows you to mix the processed signal with the dry original, implementing the parallel compression technique right inside the plug-in.
- EXT: Enables an external side chain for a second compressor, allowing you to control the compression using another track.
- POWER: Turns the plug-in completely off/on (bypass).
- ANALOG OBSESSION: Click on a label to activate 4x overexposure, which significantly reduces aliasing and improves sound quality.
Additionally, COMPER has touchscreen support and a resizable interface (50% to 200%), making it easy to use on any monitor and in any DAW.
Technical Requirements and Compatibility
The plugin is available in the most common formats:
- VST3 / AU / AAX Native – Audiosuite for macOS 10.11 – 13.X (requires a video card with “Metal” support).
- VST3 / AAX Native – Audiosuite for Windows 10 – 11.
COMPER by Analog Obsession is not just a compressor, it is a multifunctional tool for fine dynamic control and bold sound shaping. Its unique serial architecture and the ability to mix classic circuits make it an extremely flexible and creative solution for any producer or sound engineer.
