COMP160
THE DEFINITIVE EMULATION OF THE 160 VCA COMPRESSOR SERIES
Three Classic Revisions, One Plug-in
Overloud Comp 160 is a revolutionary emulation of three iconic revisions of the legendary 160 VCA compressor — faithfully capturing their distinct tone, response, and character.
- VU - the original revision, delivering a rich, punchy analog character with the unmistakable feel that made the 160 a studio staple.
- XT - Warmer and more harmonically dense, with enhanced low-frequency presence and a fuller bottom end.
- A - A more modern and transparent evolution, featuring a slightly faster response and tighter control.
Like all plug-ins in the Gem series, Comp 160 expands the capabilities of the original units with powerful modern features:
- Built-in Mid-Side Processing
- Built-in Parallel Compression
- User-controllable harmonic generation amount
- LF sensitivity
- User-selectable Ultra Oversampling mode
- Multilevel undo-redo
- A/B Comparison
- Scribble Strips: take notes anywhere on the plugin panel
- Meter Calibration: calibrate the VU meters at 4 different sensibilities
Comp 160 combines the unmistakable punch of a classic VCA compressor with the flexibility and precision required by modern productions.
BUILD YOUR FLEX BUNDLE
Save More. Get More.
Pick any 3 or 5 Gem plug-ins and create your own custom bundle at an unbeatable price.
DISCOVER THE 3 FLAVORS
VU REVISION
This is the emulation of the original processor, with the VU-style metering and classic control layout. It was the father of the VCA compressors, with a punchy and aggressive sound signature and a rich analog character.
XT REVISION
The XT revision offers a smoother, more versatile tone compared to the VU. It delivers a richer low end and a great harmonic structure, thanks to the optional transformer installed in the reference model. It also features the Overeasy control, that enables the soft-knee compression curve.
A REVISION
The A revision is a newer machine, with a cleaner sound and wider frequency response. It has a modern vibe and "transparent" sound. Its faster attack time is useful to shape the sharp transients.
The Comp 160 extends the features of the original hardware and combines the flexibility of the digital world to the character of the analog processing.
The built-in Mid-Side matrix allows to split double the plug-in and process the center and the stereo image with different settings with no external complex routing.
You can tweak a Low Cut filter on the Sidechain to reduce the compressor sensitivity to low frequencies. The amount of harmonic generation can be controlled as well.
Parallel compression is a powerful mixing technique which helps improve the overall impact of the track while leaving the transients intact, obtained by mixing the dry and the processed tone.
WHY ARE GEMS THE BEST EMULATION IN THE INDUSTRY?
The Gem plug-ins set the standard for excellence in studio processor emulation. Not only are they the most accurate simulations available, but they also enhance the original hardware by offering extended features.
