Native Instruments - NI VC 160 Vintage Compressor
BOLD AND DIRTY
- Compression ratio from 1:1 through infinity:1
- Easy to use - automatic attack and release time
- Sidechain input and Low-Cut Detector
THE VC 160 — BOLD AND DIRTY
Classic compressor for added attack and subtle drive. Especially good on kickdrum, snare, bass or guitar.
VCA COMPRESSOR
A member of the VINTAGE COMPRESSORS Series, the VC 160 is based on one of the most famous VCA compressors found in studios all over the world. The VC 160 provides a continuously-adjustable threshold range and a compression ratio from 1:1 right up to infinity while still offering intuitive controls for immediate usability.
The VC 160 is mostly used for mixing drums, adding a definitive 'thwack' or 'knock' to even the dullest kick and snare. Also helpful as a mix-fix for troublesome bass, the VC 160 delivers additional attack and a gritty edge — well-suited to hip hop and retro styles, but versatile enough to deliver exciting results on a wide range of productions.
This effect is also available as part of the specially-priced VINTAGE COMPRESSORS bundle.
IMPROVING ON THE ORIGINAL
Produced in cooperation with Softube, the VC 160 also offers a host of additional features not available on the original. An added sidechain input not only allows for characteristic ducking and pumping effects, but also provides possibilities for a wide range of creative compression techniques.
A dry control makes parallel compression with the VC 160 a reality and a Low-Cut dial effectively tells the compressor to ignore (i.e. not compress) anything below the set frequency. This essential enhancement helps to avoid over-compression caused by unruly bass frequencies.
ABOUT SOFTUBE
VINTAGE COMPRESSORS is produced in collaboration with Softube. These "Swedish rock ‘n’ roll scientists" specialize in incredibly accurate software emulations of professional audio hardware.
As well as working with NATIVE INSTRUMENTS, they make a wide range of their own products. Their reputation in the industry is exceptional.
VCA TECHNOLOGY
VCA stands for Voltage Controlled Amplifier. The VCA uses multiple ‘detectors’ to monitor the input signal, so response times are fast.
VCA compressors are particularly versatile, and perform well in critical situations where hard compression is required.
ARTISTS ON VC 160
"I...was amazed by the reaction of the [VC 160]. I can dial in the same settings and it really sounds like a lovely DBX."
Zdar (Producer for Phoenix, Beastie Boys, The Rapture)
"Now, with the VC 160...we have a complete powerhouse that goes way beyond the capabilities of the original unit."
Stephen W Tayler (recording and mixing engineer for Kate Bush, Tina Turner, Underworld)
"The VC 160 is my weapon of choice for a lot of compression duties...with all the snap of the original."
Robbie Bronnimann (producer, recording and mixing engineer for Howard Jones, Nicki Minaj, John B.)
