Golden Age Audio - COMP 554 MKII

The Golden Age Audio COMP-554 MKII clearly follows in the tradition of type 2254 diode bridge compressors, an architecture known for its firm, progressive compression that is particularly effective on transient-rich sources. Unlike many modern designs, the COMP-554 MKII's audio signal is based exclusively on discrete components, with no integrated circuits in the audio path, contributing to a natural dynamic response and a strong but controlled sonic character.

The compression stage uses a diode bridge, a technology renowned for its ability to handle wide variations in level while maintaining coherence and thickness. The input and output transformers contribute to this sonic signature, providing appreciable harmonic density on drums, percussion busses, guitars or even vocal tracks requiring sustain without excessive crushing.

The settings are deliberately precise and mostly notched, making it easy to recall settings and pair two units for stereo use. The compressor offers a wide choice of thresholds, ratios, attack and release times, including automatic options, enabling the behaviour to be adapted to both subtle compression and more pronounced processing.

The sidechain circuit is particularly well thought out. Three filter frequencies are available to avoid excessive reaction to low frequencies, while maintaining the overall impact of the signal. The COMP-554 MKII also offers several sidechain modes, including an external insert accessible via the rack 500 backplane, paving the way for creative or targeted dynamic processing.

The addition of the Air EQ filter, placed on the output, provides a slight opening in the high frequencies, useful for restoring air after pronounced compression. Designed for the professional environment, the COMP-554 MKII also features a soft-start circuit to protect components on power-up, and a hardware bypass for fast, reliable comparisons.