The Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor delivers premium mastering-grade compression for mastering, mixing, and tracking. Each channel features two compressors in series—a mastering-optimized optical compressor followed by a discrete Class-A VCA compressor/limiter—operating in stereo or dual mono.
The optical stage uses the classic T4B attenuator (as found in LA-2A/LA-3A designs) but refined for mastering precision. The second stage is a fully discrete Class-A VCA compressor with no IC chips or electrolytic capacitors in the audio path, offering detailed control with six ratios (1.2:1 to 10:1), six attack times (0.1–30 ms), and six release settings including Auto. A sidechain filter helps reduce pumping on bass-heavy material.
The signal path includes custom switchable output transformers—Nickel, Iron, and Steel—providing distinct tonal options from clean to colored to aggressive.
Both compression stages feature true hard-wire bypass, allowing them to be used independently or removed entirely from the path. The unit can also function purely as a transformer tone box or be fully bypassed for straight-through operation.
Additional features include input transformer balancing, comprehensive metering for optical GR, VCA GR, and output level, plus a Magic Eye tube peak meter. All 17 rotary controls are detented for precise recall, with an engraved front panel, Bakelite knobs, and a 2RU external power supply compatible with worldwide voltages.
A versatile, high-end compressor capable of everything from transparent bus control to aggressive tracking compression.
Includes XLR cable and power supply rack unit.
Video: https://youtu.be/zCC18Nzy2Lg
Product Specs
