SPL - Venos Black

The Venos Black SPL is in the tradition of tube bus compressors designed to sculpt a mix without altering its musicality. Its design is based on a well-known principle: variable-bias, where the voltage applied to the grid of a tube determines the way in which it compresses the signal.

This processing philosophy delivers a progressive, natural response, but the Venos goes further by incorporating hyper-compression modes that profoundly alter the circuit's behaviour. Users can switch from subtle compression to much more energetic processing, while retaining the signature of the tubes.

All the parameters are based on notched controls, making it easy to recall the exact settings when mixing or mastering. Input, Threshold and Bias can each be set to 41 positions, so you can fine-tune the way the signal interacts with the tube stage.

The bias setting, often neglected in other compressors, becomes here an essential tool for shaping the intensity and texture of the compression. It works in combination with the rectification, germanium, LED or silicon options, which modify the way the circuit reacts on attack and release.

Linear, Modern and Vintage modes adjust the behaviour of the sidechain using internal analogue filters. Linear eliminates very low frequencies to avoid excessive bass response. Modern uses a band-pass to allow the mix to breathe at extreme frequencies. Vintage applies a curve derived from extensive studio listening, designed for more classic behaviour.


The two modes, Focus and Punch, transform the use of Venos by exploiting a specific internal architecture: compression reaches an operating zone where the ratio becomes non-linear. In practice, Focus brings out the midrange with great stability, while Punch reinforces transients and gives a very marked impression of energy.

The external sidechain insert offers additional control, whether shaping the response via an EQ or using an external source to drive compression. At the output, the AirBass/Tape selector completes the processing with two tonal signatures inspired by passive circuits.

Thanks to its internal 120V technology, Venos has a much greater dynamic reserve than most analogue compressors. This architecture guarantees peak management without unwanted saturation and a constant level of detail, even on very rich signals. The metal chassis, aluminium front panel and Neutrik connectors complete a device designed for professional environments.