Vertigo Sound VSC-3: an incredibly versatile Quad Discrete compressor

Today we introduce the VSC-3 from Vertigo Sound. The VSC-3 is called Quad Discrete Compressor because it uses 4 VCAs built using only discrete components; each channel has one VCA in the audio path and another in the Side Chain.

In Stereo SC mode both Side Chains are independent and are not summed together. The highest signal peak on both channels produces equal compression of them.

Also in Stereo SC mode, the VSC-3 also reacts to out-of-phase signal peaks without image shift. This is a unique innovation far beyond simple stereo linking.

The precision of this technique makes Vertigo VSC-3 ideal for use in mastering and Mix Buss. Mono SC mode is the exact opposite, while Dual mode features completely separate controls and meters.

The main features of the VSC-3 compressor.

Two are in our opinion the most important features of the VSC-3. The first is the ratio called "soft," which increases as the signal increases and, thus, adapting to the signal itself, results in a very dynamic compressor.

Second key feature is the ability to use it in either Peak detection or RMS detection; between the two there is a gulf in the sound and behavior of the compressor.

We have, as always, Side Chain controls on the low frequencies, also to be appreciated are the digital meters, which can be monitored even in dim situations, because inside the bright part is the gain reduction indication. These are small details but they really allow one to appreciate the VSC-3.

Compressor performance in mastering, tracking and mixing

As you can see in our YouTube video, we tested the Vertigo VSC-3 on several tracks in mastering mode but also on mono sources. From what we heard, it is a very transparent compressor, which in mastering at times almost cannot be heard with light compressions. However, it can also be very convincing and aggressive at high ratios and high input signal levels.

In short, the VSC-3 is a compressor that is super precise when mastering and definitely employable even with mono sources in both tracking and mixing. In conclusion, all that remains is for us to invite you to Milk Audio Store and Showroom to try the Vertigo VSC-3 directly on site!