Buzz Audio DBC-M Mastering Compressor

design features

Add some real vibe to your mastering project with our take on the vintage diode bridge compressor technique.

audio path color

The DBC-M is a Mastering version of the popular Buzz Audio DBC-20 diode bridge compressor and offers fully switched control for repeatable settings. The diode bridge gain reduction element coupled with our innovative side chain design delivers a vintage vibe like no other. The DBC-M audio path uses our Class A discrete amplifier designs in a balanced configuration from input to output with a radio steel laminated transformer to couple into the diode bridge element. This overall combination produces a desirable compression character that can best be described as tight, colourful and rich with harmonics.

dynamic ratio power

In the style of compressors from the 60's, the DBC-M incorporates a automatic ratio whereby the compression ratio is progressively increased with deepening gain reduction. This feature allows for the control of very dynamic signals in a seamless fashion and is also a very desirable characteristic when used on complex percussive material.

operational ease

This compressor is easy to get happening with six switched attack and release times covering a wide range, including an interesting auto release mode. Big knobs with 24 position stepped Elma controls are provided for the amount of compression and the output gain. The compressor can be switched to a Soft mode whereby dynamic peaks are partially retained and another switch introduces a high pass filter to the side chain to lower compression sensitivity at low frequencies. The attractive "point source" red LED bar graph meter accurately displays gain reduction and the gloss finish knobs adds to the vintage feel of the DBC-M.

The DBC is also available in a recording version.

controls and functions

GAIN - 24 position Elma switch that adds gain at the output to correct for lost level with a -2.0 to +10dB range in 0.5dB steps.
COMPRESSION - 24 position Elma switch that sets the amount of compression.
ATTACK - rotary switch with 6 settings, FAST (less than 0.5mS)-5mS-10mS-15mS-25mS-50mS.
RELEASE - rotary switch with 6 recovery time settings, 50mS-100mS-200mS-400mS-600mS and AUTO.
HARD/SOFT - adds dynamics in soft mode for times when very light compression is required.
FLAT/BASS - reduces compression sensitivity at low frequencies for more bass punch.
BYPASS/ENGAGE - hard wire unit bypass to compare compressed and uncompressed signals.
There is also a handy power ON/OFF switch and the LINK A/B which provides for stereo tracking to prevent image shift when used on the mix buss.

user comments

Chris Chetland

Just been playing around with the DBC-20 and done a few mastering jobs on it. I did a semi extensive shoot out vs my API2500 (replacing it in the chain) and it is definitely up there with it sonically, not quite as rounded off (i.e. a bit more open), which is really appealing for tracks with open top end.
[Kog Mastering, New Zealand]

Dan Suter

Thank you for this wonderfull compressor! I use him daily for mastering and he does magical things. I know no other compressor who can integrate transients on a mix so great, but he's also perfect with longer attacks. This unit has so many sweet spots and the action is always musical. He helps the voices and the drums in a mix in a really tasty way.
[Echo Chamber Mastering, Switzerland]