Harrison Audio Comp 500 Compressor

Dave Harrison's journey from compressor sceptic to industry pioneer perfectly embodies how necessity drives innovation in professional audio. Initially resistant to compression alongside his mate Bruce Swedien, Harrison believed music should be captured authentically without ...Dave Harrison's journey from compressor sceptic to industry pioneer perfectly embodies how necessity drives innovation in professional audio. Initially resistant to compression alongside his mate Bruce Swedien, Harrison believed music should be captured authentically without interference.

However, broadcast market demands for dynamic control and clipping prevention pushed Harrison Audio into developing what would become an essential production tool. The resulting compressor proved remarkably effective, offering transparent 'levelling' capabilities with just a few dBs of gain reduction that quickly became indispensable for smoothing vocals, guitars, and instruments with wide dynamic ranges. The Comp 500 Series module showcases remarkable versatility as a dynamics processor, functioning equally well as a subtle leveller or aggressive vibe compressor.

Using a 1:2 ratio with fast release, it provides gentle 2-3 dB gain reduction for transparent vocal and guitar processing. Alternatively, slam the ratio with slow release settings to create that sought-after saturated character on drums and bass. Built around a classic 'feed-forward' design utilising a THAT 2180 VCA chip, the compressor features program-dependent attack that adapts to input signals, while the continuously variable release time allows precise control over the compression character.

Harrison consoles have shaped some of music history's most influential recordings, with legendary artists including Michael Jackson, ABBA, Led Zeppelin, and Queen relying on Harrison production tools for their multi-platinum albums. Engineers like Bruce Swedien, Roger Nichols, and Reinhold Mack trusted Harrison's distinctive sound to create music that continues resonating decades later. The latest 500 series modules bring this proven Harrison sound into the modern studio environment, offering the same professional-grade processing that has defined countless classic recordings.