Below are five single channel outboard compressors we’ve tested and can recommend if you are in the market for a device of this ilk for your studio. These particular devices come in many different forms and often feature other forms of processing such as EQ within a channel strip design. Single channel compressors are handy for addressing the dynamics of lead vocals, bass guitars, snares and kick drums. Below are several single-channel and stereo options to consider if you are looking to buy a new compressor for your studio: Single Channel Outboard Compressors How do we know this? In a poll published in 2019 we asked The Production Expert Community If You Only Had One Type Of Studio Outboard Processor To Mix With What Would It Be? EQ, Compressor Or Something More Exotic? 43% of those who voted stated they would rather have some form of dynamics processor in their racks over any other style of outboard unit. Outboard compressors are one of the most popular forms of studio outboard gear. In this article, you can check out reviews on a wide range of outboard compressors that perform wonders on vocals, mix buses and masters.
But I would be remiss if I didn’t share my most important piece of advice: After you’ve spent the time crafting the perfect 808, you will realize that the moment you add a kick into the mix, everything changes. We have been fortunate enough at Production Expert to test a wide variety of outboard gear. Some of the compressors I go to are the CLA-2A, the Renaissance Compressor and sometimes the dynamic section of the SSL E-Channel. If you are in the market for a new outboard compressor for your studio then you have started your search in the right place.