This classic optical compressor offers exceptional versatility, featuring a unique attack and release shape that sets it apart from traditional models.

Note: This compressor will not work in N3. This is the first time I’ve ever made a compressor that will not work in N3. This is due to added Functions Inside nebula

This compressor has undoubtedly taken the longest to develop of all the compressors I’ve created. Over the years, I made several attempts to perfect its design, continually returning to address some inherent functional challenges.

Below are the controls and explanations of the various modes:

• Ratio: This control modifies the compression curve, allowing you to adjust how aggressively the signal is compressed.

• Threshold: This sets the level above which the signal will be compressed. Note that this control operates clockwise—turning it increases the amount of signal that will be affected by compression.
• Output: This adjusts the makeup gain to compensate for any loss in level resulting from compression, ensuring a balanced output.
• Hi Pass: This feature introduces a subtle high-pass filter into the sidechain of the compression, allowing for more focused compression by reducing the influence of low-frequency content.
• Input: This control is designed for very low volume sources, providing additional gain if the threshold isn’t sufficient. However, be cautious not to overload the nebula—only increase this if your signal is particularly low.

MODES:

• Fixed Mode: In this mode, attack and release controls are disabled, resulting in a fast attack and release. This speed can lead to increased distortion compared to other modes, as the envelope responds quickly to signal changes.
• Manual Mode: This mode allows for precise adjustments to time constants. Attack: The attack control is highly expressive; increasing the attack time enhances the snap and crack of the sound. As you approach the maximum setting, the attack phase is so long that it dominates the compressors ability to charge, leading to less compression.

• Release: A standout feature of this unit is its unique release shape, which is influenced by the compression amount. Unlike many compressors, the release duration lengthens as compression increases. This design minimizes distortion and holds for louder signal peaks. Be aware that the release can become very long at higher settings on the release dial. Finding the optimal release time on the release dial will vary based on the amount of compression applied.

• Fixed+Manual Mode:This mode combines elements of both Fixed and Manual modes. In this setting, the attack control in Manual mode acts as a variable charge for the release activation (the longer the attack time, the more time it takes for the release to get to its maximum effectiveness), this is a two stage release. This operation is similar to the auto settings found in many bus compressors. Fixed mode’s attack time is always in effect, and if the release in Manual mode hasn’t been charged sufficiently by the input signal, the Fixed mode release will take precedence. Manual mode’s ability to charge and take over depends on the attack knobs setting. If the Attack is placed at its fastest setting it will charge its release into compression almost immediately. Attack placed at its slowest position will use fixed release for most of the transient, but the longer the sustain of the instrument is in compression, the more the manual mode will charge. When both attack and release are close to max, the behaviour resembles that of a bus compressor in auto mode, allowing for control over the charge time with the attack knob. To experiment with this mode, try using a longer release time and feeding a signal with fast transients and minimal sustain—like a snare drum. Adjust the Attack control to understand how the second stage activates, starting from the fastest to the slowest setting.

Below a video of fixed+manual, demonstrating is second stage charging

Line frequency responce

Thanks to JPN for the excellent skins

A extra red skin is available by clicking edit on n4

Manual control requires a ahead headroom global tweak of 1ms. Please check you have ahead set above 1ms. Its fine to put ahead to max as this tweak is a headroom for all nebula libraries, the ahead value is set inside the libraries. Save and reopen N4 for adjustment to take effect

Graphics meter tip for n4 , regarding flickering, use a lower ledspeed found in n4’s xml, for example <LEDSPEED> 1 </LEDSPEED>.