Analog compressor

Dynamics processing is not something typically considered in modular synthesis, especially subtractive patches. With many synthesists doing fully modular feedback patches, percussion and outboard processing with their modulars, compression now has a place in a Eurorack.

The WMD Compressor is designed to serve all of your normal dynamics processing needs, but it pushes boundaries further. It can subtly calm resonance peaks, or it can add dynamic character to a bass patch. It can also completely crush and distort a patch into a pumping breathing monster.

The WMD Compressor is designed around the THAT 4301 core, a high end dynamics processor. It has been adapted for modular levels, but will work with +4 line level signals as well. It is designed to be transparent, using only ultra low noise opamps, but it also has variable input and output saturation to add some character and distortion.

CV control over Attack, Release, Threshold, and Makeup Gain. Added saturation modes for the input side and output side, both sound very different. Also added a wet dry blend for parallel compression (killer on kick drums).

The sidechain is now a normal, feedback mode has been removed (wasn't doing anything particularly special anyway). Also figured out how to add a peak detection mode, as well as a variable transient response mode in addition to the normal RMS sensing mode.

Stereo linking is accomplished with a cable on the back, connecting two modules together, and flipping both to stereo.

The attack release circuitry is still being tweaked, I'm working on expanding the range significantly, so those numbers on the panel will change.

Also added a ratio reversal switch, turning the compressor into an expander, which is cool for distortion and increasing dynamics.

The Compressor is DC coupled all the way through, including the side-chain, so you can compress DC voltages, or use DC in the side chain.

Features

THAT 4301 Forward Compressor
Ultra Low Noise Opamps
DC Coupled Throughout
Input and Output Variable Saturation
+-12dB of Input Gain
Manual/Auto Attack and Release
Hard or Soft Knee
RMS/Peak/Adaptive Level Detection
Expander Mode
Infinite Ratio for Limiting
CV Control
Wet/Dry for Parallel Compression
Side Chain Input
Envelope Output
LEDs for Threshold & Compression
Stereo Operation by Linking

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCALH3d3YiI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFL7-zQyyqc

Manual

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0977/3366/files/Compressor_Manual_PG1.pdf?9536115783948084437

https://www.wmdevices.com/collections/eurorack-modules/products/compressor

• 52 mA +12V
• 40 mA -12V
• ? mA 5V
• 25 mm Depth

This Module is currently available.