AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Compressors, Gates and De-essers 2026

Q: What's the difference between a compressor and a limiter?

A limiter is basically a compressor with a super-high ratio (often infinity:1). It's designed to prevent signals from exceeding a certain level - think mastering or keeping vocals from peaking. Compressors are more about shaping dynamics and adding character.

Q: How do I set the threshold?

Start high and lower it gradually while listening. The goal is to get a consistent level reduction - usually around 3-6dB, but it depends on the source and the vibe you're going for. Use your ears; a meter is just a guide.

Q: My gate is cutting off the sustain on my guitar - what's wrong?

Your threshold is probably too high or your release time is too short. Lower the threshold and/or increase the release time. Also, check for 'bleed' - unwanted sounds leaking into the mic - which can trigger the gate prematurely.

Q: Can I use a compressor on every track?

Sure, but don't overdo it! Subtle compression on almost everything can glue a mix together, but too much will suck the life out of it. Less is often more - learn to listen for what needs compression.

Q: What's a sidechain compressor?

It's a compressor where the gain reduction isn't triggered by the signal on that track, but by another. The classic example is a kick drum triggering a bass guitar to duck out of the way - creates a pumping effect. It's a cool trick, but can easily sound cheesy if not done tastefully.

The top pick is Warm Audio WA76 Limiting Amplifier ($1,169). Klark Teknik 76-KT Classic FET Compressor gives you the most for the money at $167. Rupert Neve Designs Portico II Master Buss Processor leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 101 models across 42 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 12, 2026

101models in this chart

42brands

$2,016median price

55price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Compressors, Gates and De-essers

Price

Skill level

Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

Warm Audio WA76 Limiting Amplifier
WA76-D2 · Warm Audio
41 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Weight4.8 kg
The WA76-D2 is a seriously cool recreation of that iconic '70s SSL sound – think punchy drums, driving bass, and vocals with a vintage edge. It's a fantastic option for anyone wanting that classic vibe without the vintage price tag; especially good for rock, pop, and hip-hop producers looking to add some grit and character to their mixes.
Pros
- CineMag transformers deliver authentic 70s SSL warmth and punch.
- Discrete Class-A output provides a clean, powerful signal boost.
- Flexible stereo linking options cater to diverse mixing scenarios.
Cons
- The 'All Buttons In' setting can be overly aggressive for subtle compression.
- Build quality, while decent, doesn't match genuinely vintage SSL units.
87AudioFu
Index
- Demand90
- Lineup100
- Price97
- Specs50
- Maker90
↓ 15.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$1,388 · Aug 14$1,169 now

$1,169€1,043 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Warm Audio WA-1B Tube Opto Compressor
WA-1B · Warm Audio
47 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight3.9 kg
The WA-1B is a seriously good-sounding compressor, nailing that classic, warm vibe reminiscent of the original. It's fantastic for vocals, guitars, and bass – anything needing a touch of vintage glue. If you’re chasing a smooth, musical compression without being overly aggressive, this is a premium-priced option that delivers.
Pros
- Discrete, hand-wired circuit delivers a warm, vintage compression character
- Tung-Sol 12AX7 and JJ 12AU7 tubes provide authentic tube warmth and headroom
- Transformer-based output adds desirable harmonic richness and color
Cons
- Can be noisy at higher gain settings, especially with sensitive microphones
- Relatively heavy, making it less ideal for portable or mobile setups
77AudioFu
Index
- Demand93
- Lineup43
- Price94
- Specs50
- Maker90
↓ 14.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$1,310 · Aug 14$1,119 now

$1,119€999 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Warm Audio WA-2A Tube Optical Compressor / Limiter
WA-2A · Warm Audio
62 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight5.44 kg
The WA-2A nails that classic, 'glue' sound—think Abbey Road compression without the vintage headaches. It's a fantastic choice for vocals, guitars, or anything needing a touch of warmth and subtle dynamic control. This is a great option for producers and engineers seeking a specific, character-rich compression color.
Pros
- CineMag transformers impart a pleasing, vintage-like warmth and saturation.
- Discrete signal path avoids muddying the tone, retaining clarity.
- TungSol/EH tubes deliver a classic, creamy compression character.
Cons
- Limited versatility compared to more complex, multi-band compressors.
- The 6AQ5/6P1 tube choice restricts tonal shaping possibilities.
76AudioFu
Index
- Demand100
- Lineup43
- Price73
- Specs50
- Maker90
↓ 7.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$1,005 · Aug 14$927 now

$927€827 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Rupert Neve Designs Portico II Master Buss Processor
Portico II Master Buss Black · Rupert Neve Designs
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight9.7 kg
This Portico II Master Buss Black is a serious workhorse for mastering engineers and producers seeking a transparent yet characterful compression solution. Rupert Neve’s signature sound is present without being overly colored, and the mid-side capabilities are a huge asset for shaping the stereo image. It’s a premium-priced piece, but delivers a level of polish and control you won't find elsewhere.
Pros
- Exceptional transient handling thanks to the 75V power supply.
- Texture control delivers genuinely musical harmonic enhancement.
- Flexible mid-side processing offers unparalleled stereo imaging control.
Cons
- High-end price point puts it out of reach for many home studios.
- Weight makes rack mounting a consideration for smaller setups.
73AudioFu
Index
- Demand77
- Lineup43
- Price78
- Specs100
- Maker70
↓ 9.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$5,938 · Aug 14$5,377 now

$5,377€4,798 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Empirical Labs EL8-X Distressor with British Mode and Image Link
EL8 X Distressor · Empirical Labs
14 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight4.1 kg
The EL8 X Distressor is a powerhouse for adding character and punch. It’s a fantastic choice for engineers and producers looking to impart a vintage, aggressive vibe to drums, vocals, or guitars – think classic rock, hip-hop, or anything needing serious attitude. It’s not a transparent compressor, so be ready to embrace the color!
Pros
- Exceptional transient shaping with the 'knee' modes.
- Tube stage delivers genuine warmth and harmonic richness.
- Versatile distortion character, from subtle saturation to aggressive grit.
Cons
- Relatively high price point compared to other single-channel compressors.
- Can be complex to dial in, requiring some experimentation and understanding.
72AudioFu
Index
- Demand65
- Lineup68
- Price65
- Specs100
- Maker70
↓ 5.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$2,240 · Aug 14$2,127 now

$2,127€1,898 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Warm Audio Bus-Comp 2-Channel VCA Bus Compressor
Bus-Comp · Warm Audio
39 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The Bus-Comp nails that classic, slightly colored bus compression vibe. It’s a fantastic option for engineers and producers seeking a touch of vintage warmth and punch without the complexity of a full-blown SSL emulation. This is a great tool for rock, pop, and hip-hop where a cohesive, glued-together sound is key.
Pros
- CineMag transformers add warmth and subtle harmonic richness.
- THAT VCAs deliver clean, precise gain reduction.
- External sidechain unlocks creative compression possibilities.
Cons
- Limited to two channels, restricting larger mixing duties.
- Transformer saturation can be overwhelming for cleaner genres.
71AudioFu
Index
- Demand89
- Lineup43
- Price67
- Specs50
- Maker90
↓ 5.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$884 · Aug 14$835 now

$835€745 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Tube-Tech LCA 2B Dual Channel Tube VCA Compressor / Limiter
LCA 2B · Tube-Tech
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight6.5 kg
The LCA2B is a serious piece of gear, offering a blend of clean compression and subtle tube warmth. It's a fantastic choice for engineers and producers who need precise dynamic control and a touch of vintage character – think rock, pop, and even orchestral recordings. This unit shines when you need surgical precision alongside a pleasing sonic signature.
Pros
- Exceptional transparency and dynamic range thanks to the VCA design.
- Tube character adds warmth and subtle harmonic enhancement.
- Independent compressor and limiter sections offer versatile processing.
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for most studios.
- Attack and release times, while variable, can be a bit complex to dial in quickly.
70AudioFu
Index
- Demand68
- Lineup43
- Price79
- Specs100
- Maker70
↓ 9.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$5,546 · Aug 14$5,002 now

$5,002€4,464 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Black Lion Audio Seventeen FET Limiting Amplifier / Compressor
Seventeen · Black Lion Audio
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight6.58 kg
The Seventeen nails that classic, punchy FET compression vibe – think '80s rock drums or a driving bassline. It's a fantastic tool for adding aggression and glue to your tracks, but be aware of its more assertive nature. This compressor is perfect for engineers and producers seeking a focused, characterful tone.
Pros
- Transformer upgrade delivers a smoother, more musical compression character.
- Sidechain filter offers precise control over compressor behavior.
- Classic ratio switching provides instant recall of favored settings.
Cons
- FET design can be aggressive; not ideal for subtle, transparent compression.
- Mono operation limits stereo processing flexibility.
68AudioFu
Index
- Demand64
- Lineup43
- Price78
- Specs100
- Maker70
↓ 9.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$951 · Aug 14$862 now

$862€769 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Elysia nvelope 500 Stereo / Dual-Mono 500 Series Impulse Shaper /…
nvelope · Elysia
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight2 kg
The Elysia nvelope is a seriously impressive piece of kit. It’s not just another compressor; it’s a dynamic processor that gives you a ton of control over the character of your stereo mixes. This is a fantastic tool for engineers and producers looking for subtle, transparent shaping or more aggressive, creative dynamics processing.
Pros
- Discrete Class-A topology delivers exceptional clarity and headroom
- Aluminum housing feels incredibly solid and professional, inspiring confidence
- Flexible EQ mode subtly shapes transients, adding polish and control
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many studios
- Stepped potentiometers can feel less fluid than continuous controls
68AudioFu
Index
- Demand56
- Lineup43
- Price80
- Specs100
- Maker100
↓ 10.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$1,411 · Aug 14$1,270 now

$1,270€1,133 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Klark Teknik 76-KT Classic FET Compressor
76-KT · Klark Teknik
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight2.8 kg
The Klark Teknik 76-KT is a surprisingly capable compressor for the money. It’s got a classic 1176 vibe thanks to those MIDAS transformers, delivering a punchy, slightly colored sound that’s great for drums, vocals, or anything needing a bit of attitude. This is a solid choice for home studios or anyone wanting a taste of vintage compression without the premium price tag.
Pros
- MIDAS transformers impart a pleasing, slightly colored sonic character
- Discrete signal path offers clean, transparent compression
- Fast attack time excels at controlling aggressive transients
Cons
- Limited ratio options compared to more flexible compressors
- Build quality, while decent, feels a bit plasticky for the price
67AudioFu
Index
- Demand65
- Lineup43
- Price86
- Specs100
- Maker48
↓ 11.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$189 · Aug 14$167 now

$167€149 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 101 compressors, gates and de-essers

Sort

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
Lindell Audio LiN2A Leveling AmplifierLiN2A · Lindell Audio

Index 67↓ 15.7%
67
↓ 15.7%$783€699
$783€699Check ↗
12
WesAudio ngBusComp Stereo Bus Compressor with Digital RecallngBusComp · WesAudio

Index 67↓ 19.5%
67
↓ 19.5%$3,002€2,679
$3,002€2,679Check ↗
13
ART SCL2 Dynamics ProcessorSCL2 · ART

Index 63↓ 1.2%
63
↓ 1.2%$287€256
$287€256Check ↗
14
Heritage Audio Herchild 670 2-Channel CompressorHerchild 670 · Heritage Audio

Index 63↓ 6.0%
63
↓ 6.0%$10,533€9,399
$10,533€9,399Check ↗
15
Bettermaker Mastering CompressorBettermaker

Index 61↓ 7.4%
61
↓ 7.4%$2,800€2,499
$2,800€2,499Check ↗
16
Heritage Audio Herchild Model 660 Tube CompressorHerchild 660 · Heritage Audio

Index 61↓ 4.2%
61
↓ 4.2%$5,581€4,980
$5,581€4,980Check ↗
17
Black Lion Audio Bluey 500 500-Series Limiter ModuleBluey Limiter · Black Lion Audio

Index 60↓ 9.6%
60
↓ 9.6%$1,164€1,039
$1,164€1,039Check ↗
18
Tegeler Audio Manufaktur Creme Stereo Bus Compressor / Mastering…Creme Green · Tegeler · 2 finishes

Index 60Stable
60
Stable$2,016€1,799
$2,016€1,799Check ↗
19
Klark Teknik KT-2A Tube Leveling Amplifier2A-KT · Klark Teknik

Index 59↓ 6.3%
59
↓ 6.3%$366€327
$366€327Check ↗
20
Heritage Audio Successor Stereo Bus CompressorSuccessor · Heritage Audio

Index 59Stable
59
Stable$1,736€1,549
$1,736€1,549Check ↗
21
Tube-Tech CL 1B Mono Opto CompressorCl 1B · Tube-Tech

Index 59Stable
59
Stable$4,471€3,990
$4,471€3,990Check ↗
22
Rupert Neve Designs MBT Master Bus Transformer Stereo Signal ProcessorMaster Bus Transformer · Rupert Neve Designs

Index 59↓ 5.4%
59
↓ 5.4%$4,593€4,099
$4,593€4,099Check ↗
23
Heritage Audio HA-609A Elite Series Dual-Mono / Stereo Compressor /…HA 609A Elite · Heritage Audio

Index 58↓ 1.7%
58
↓ 1.7%$2,038€1,819
$2,038€1,819Check ↗
24
Empirical Labs EL7X FatsoFatso - EL7X · Empirical Labs

Index 58↓ 8.8%
58
↓ 8.8%$3,023€2,698
$3,023€2,698Check ↗
25
Dangerous Music CompressorDangerous Music

Index 58↓ 23.2%
58
↓ 23.2%$3,921€3,499
$3,921€3,499Check ↗
26
Tube-Tech CL 2A Dual Channel Dual Opto CompressorCL2-A · Tube-Tech

Index 58↓ 5.6%
58
↓ 5.6%$4,705€4,199
$4,705€4,199Check ↗
27
Elysia nvelope Mastering Edition 2-Channel Impulse Shaper / Dynamics…nvelope Mastering Edition · Elysia

Index 57↓ 4.5%
57
↓ 4.5%$1,657€1,479
$1,657€1,479Check ↗
28
Eventide Omnipressor Model 2830Au 50th Anniversary Dynamic Effects…Omnipressor 2830Au · Eventide

Index 57↓ 9.3%
57
↓ 9.3%$2,236€1,995
$2,236€1,995Check ↗
29
dbx 266xs Dual-Channel Compressor / Gate266 XS · DBX

Index 56↑ 14.4%
56
↑ 14.4%$178€159
$178€159Check ↗
30
Black Lion Audio B172A 2-Channel Hybrid FET/Optical CompressorB172A · Black Lion Audio

Index 55↓ 2.9%
55
↓ 2.9%$1,848€1,649
$1,848€1,649Check ↗
31
Manley Labs Variable MU Stereo Tube Compressor Limiter with High-Pass…Variable MU Compressor/Limiter · Manley

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$5,266€4,699
$5,266€4,699Check ↗
32
Elysia XMAX Stereo Bus Compressorxmax · Elysia

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$1,949€1,739
$1,949€1,739Check ↗
33
Elysia Alpha Compressor Stereo Mastering Compressor / LimiterAlpha Compressor · Elysia

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$12,662€11,299
$12,662€11,299Check ↗
34
Heritage Audio LANG P.LANE Type 436Heritage Audio

Index 53↓ 2.5%
53
↓ 2.5%$1,037€925
$1,037€925Check ↗
35
Weight Tank WT-CompWeight Tank

Index 53↓ 15.0%
53
↓ 15.0%$1,523€1,359
$1,523€1,359Check ↗
36
Elysia xpressor neoElysia

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$1,669€1,489
$1,669€1,489Check ↗
37
Drawmer 1973 Three Band Stereo FET Compressor1973 · Drawmer

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$1,769€1,579
$1,769€1,579Check ↗
38
Manley Labs ELOP+ Dual-Channel Electo-Optical Tube Compressor /…ELOP+ · Manley

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$3,361€2,999
$3,361€2,999Check ↗
39
Golden Age Audio Project Comp-3AGolden Age Audio · 2 finishes

Index 52↓ 10.0%
52
↓ 10.0%$503€449
$503€449Check ↗
40
Rupert Neve Designs OptoFET Dual Stage CompressorOptoFET · Rupert Neve Designs

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,352€2,099
$2,352€2,099Check ↗
41
Heritage Audio Herchild 670NHeritage Audio

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$3,361€2,999
$3,361€2,999Check ↗
42
Rupert Neve Designs Shelford Diode Bridge CompRupert Neve Designs

Index 52↓ 3.1%
52
↓ 3.1%$3,473€3,099
$3,473€3,099Check ↗
43
Chandler Limited RS124 Tube CompressorRS124 Compressor · Chandler Limited

Index 52↓ 2.6%
52
↓ 2.6%$3,809€3,399
$3,809€3,399Check ↗
44
Looptrotter Monster Compressor 2Looptrotter

Index 52↓ 12.2%
52
↓ 12.2%$4,033€3,599
$4,033€3,599Check ↗
45
Black Lion Audio Seventeen 500 Series FET Limiting Amplifier /…Seventeen-500 · Black Lion Audio

Index 51↓ 14.5%
51
↓ 14.5%$593€529
$593€529Check ↗
46
WesAudio ng78 FET CompressorWesAudio

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$2,576€2,299
$2,576€2,299Check ↗
47
IGS Audio Tubecore 3U Mastering Edition Stereo CompressorTubecore 3U · IGS Audio

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$3,249€2,899
$3,249€2,899Check ↗
48
Behringer MDX4600 Multicom Pro-XL V2Behringer

Index 50↓ 4.8%
50
↓ 4.8%$133€119
$133€119Check ↗
49
Elysia XMAX Qube Stereo Bus Compressor Modulexmax qube · Elysia

Index 50↓ 6.0%
50
↓ 6.0%$1,411€1,259
$1,411€1,259Check ↗
50
WesAudio ng76 FET CompressorWesAudio

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$1,680€1,499
$1,680€1,499Check ↗
51
Chameleon Labs 7721 Stereo VCA CompressorChameleon Labs

Index 50↓ 14.1%
50
↓ 14.1%$1,876€1,674
$1,876€1,674Check ↗
52
SSL BUS+SSL

Index 50↓ 5.1%
50
↓ 5.1%$2,072€1,849
$2,072€1,849Check ↗
53
Empirical Labs Distressor EL8 XXX AnniversaryEmpirical Labs

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$2,576€2,299
$2,576€2,299Check ↗
54
IGS Audio ZenIGS Audio

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$3,137€2,799
$3,137€2,799Check ↗
55
Lindell Audio LiN76 MKIILindell Audio

Index 49↓ 2.2%
49
↓ 2.2%$503€449
$503€449Check ↗
56
Drawmer 1978 Stereo Tone Shaping Compressor1978 · Drawmer

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$1,230€1,098
$1,230€1,098Check ↗
57
Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor & Preamplifier1970 · Drawmer

Index 49↓ 0.6%
49
↓ 0.6%$1,669€1,489
$1,669€1,489Check ↗
58
Tube-Tech SMC-2B Stereo Multiband CompressorSMC2B · Tube-Tech

Index 49↓ 3.1%
49
↓ 3.1%$5,322€4,749
$5,322€4,749Check ↗
59
Behringer 369-KTBehringer

Index 48↓ 1.3%
48
↓ 1.3%$503€449
$503€449Check ↗
60
ART Pro VLA IIIART

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$671€599
$671€599Check ↗
61
SPL DeEsser MKIISPL

Index 47↑ 6.3%
47
↑ 6.3%$951€849
$951€849Check ↗
62
Drawmer 1976 Stereo Saturation and Width Processor1976 · Drawmer

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,230€1,098
$1,230€1,098Check ↗
63
Drawmer 1968 MKII Dual-Channel Vacuum Tube Compressor1968 MK II · Drawmer

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$1,769€1,579
$1,769€1,579Check ↗
64
Locomotive Audio Model 14B Vacuum Tube Compressor14B · Locomotive Audio

Index 47↓ 7.1%
47
↓ 7.1%$2,912€2,599
$2,912€2,599Check ↗
65
Elysia xpressor neo qubeElysia

Index 46↓ 0.9%
46
↓ 0.9%$1,276€1,139
$1,276€1,139Check ↗
66
Antelope A4-1B Complete EditionAntelope

Index 46↓ 27.9%
46
↓ 27.9%$2,016€1,799
$2,016€1,799Check ↗
67
AEA 1029 KompressorAEA

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$2,128€1,899
$2,128€1,899Check ↗
68
Cranborne Audio Brick Lane MC4Cranborne Audio

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$3,473€3,099
$3,473€3,099Check ↗
69
Golden Age Audio Project Comp-54 MKIIIGolden Age Audio

Index 45↓ 4.8%
45
↓ 4.8%$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
70
Heritage Audio TubesessorHeritage Audio

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$2,016€1,799
$2,016€1,799Check ↗
71
SSL FusionSSL

Index 44↓ 7.5%
44
↓ 7.5%$1,669€1,489
$1,669€1,489Check ↗
72
Neve 33609 C Stereo Compressor / Limiter33609 Limiter / Compressor · Neve

Index 44↑ 2.7%
44
↑ 2.7%$4,246€3,789
$4,246€3,789Check ↗
73
Fredenstein Artistic Comp Plus 500 Series FET Compressor ModuleV.A.S. Comp · Fredenstein

Index 43↓ 1.4%
43
↓ 1.4%$319€285
$319€285Check ↗
74
Golden Age Audio Project Comp-2AGolden Age Audio

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$660€589
$660€589Check ↗
75
Neve 88CNeve

Index 43↓ 2.2%
43
↓ 2.2%$1,369€1,222
$1,369€1,222Check ↗
76
IGS Audio One LA 19"IGS Audio

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,792€1,599
$1,792€1,599Check ↗
77
Tegeler Magnetismus 2Tegeler

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,904€1,699
$1,904€1,699Check ↗
78
Tegeler Vari Tube Compressor VTC GreenTegeler

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$2,240€1,999
$2,240€1,999Check ↗
79
Manley NuMUManley

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$3,292€2,938
$3,292€2,938Check ↗
80
WesAudio ngTubeCompWesAudio

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$5,266€4,699
$5,266€4,699Check ↗
81
SPL Iron v2 BlackSPL

Index 43↓ 1.7%
43
↓ 1.7%$6,610€5,899
$6,610€5,899Check ↗
82
Neve 2254/R Mono Limiter/CompressorNeve

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$3,025€2,699
$3,025€2,699Check ↗
83
SPL 2022 Transient Designer 4 MkII Dynamics ProcessorTransient Designer 4 Mk2 · SPL

Index 41↑ 5.6%
41
↑ 5.6%$1,344€1,199
$1,344€1,199Check ↗
84
IGS Audio VolfIGS Audio

Index 41↑ 4.0%
41
↑ 4.0%$2,912€2,599
$2,912€2,599Check ↗
85
McDSP APB-8McDSP

Index 40↓ 21.3%
40
↓ 21.3%$3,529€3,149
$3,529€3,149Check ↗
86
Fairchild 660Fairchild

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$28,003€24,989
$28,003€24,989Check ↗
87
the t.racks FIR DSP 408the t.racks

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$670€598
$670€598Check ↗
88
Elysia mpressor2 qubeElysia

Index 39↓ 1.3%
39
↓ 1.3%$1,493€1,332
$1,493€1,332Check ↗
89
Hazelrigg Industries VNEHazelrigg Industries

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$5,770€5,149
$5,770€5,149Check ↗
90
Manley Labs Variable MU Stereo Tube Compressor Limiter Mastering…Variable MU Mastering · Manley

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$6,722€5,999
$6,722€5,999Check ↗
91
Vertigo Sound VSC-3Vertigo Sound

Index 38↑ 1.8%
38
↑ 1.8%$6,274€5,599
$6,274€5,599Check ↗
92
Elysia Nvelope QUBE 500 Series Transient Shaper in Powered Enclosurenvelope qube · Elysia

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$1,041€929
$1,041€929Check ↗
93
Chandler Limited TG12413 Zener LimiterEMI TG12413 Zener Limiter · Chandler Limited

Index 37↑ 1.5%
37
↑ 1.5%$6,371€5,685
$6,371€5,685Check ↗
94
API Audio 2500+API Audio

Index 35↓ 8.4%
35
↓ 8.4%$3,899€3,479
$3,899€3,479Check ↗
95
SPL Venos BlackSPL

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$5,591€4,989
$5,591€4,989Check ↗
96
McDSP APB-16 16 Channel Thunderbolt DSP ProcessorAPB-16 · McDSP

Index 35↓ 7.6%
35
↓ 7.6%$6,722€5,999
$6,722€5,999Check ↗
97
Fairchild 670 Compressor / Limiter670 · Fairchild

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$37,987€33,899
$37,987€33,899Check ↗
98
Chandler Limited TG-1 LimiterTG1 · Chandler Limited

Index 33Stable
33
Stable$4,817€4,299
$4,817€4,299Check ↗
99
TritonAudio KompressorTritonAudio

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$100€89
$100€89Check ↗
100
Rolls SL 33bRolls

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$178€159
$178€159Check ↗
101
DOCtron IMC MK2DOCtron

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$2,800€2,499
$2,800€2,499Check ↗

Compressors, Gates and De-essers by the numbers

Measured across all 107 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $2,016 — half of all compressors, gates and de-essers here cost less.

<$100$100–400$400–1.5k$1.5k–7.5k$7.5k+

Size19"

median of 67 models · 9.5"–19"

Weight4.44 kg

median of 61 models · 1.46 kg–13.3 kg

How to choose the best compressors, gates and de-essers

Attack & Release

This is the core. Fast attack clamps down on transients - great for punchy drums or aggressive guitars. Slow attack lets those transients through for more natural dynamics. Release needs to be rhythmic with your material - too fast and it sounds choked, too slow and it's pumping. Finding the sweet spot is everything.

Ratio

This controls how much the signal is compressed above the threshold. Lower ratios (2:1, 4:1) are subtle, while higher ratios (10:1, 20:1) are more aggressive. Higher ratios can be great for squashing vocals or drums, but be careful-you'll lose dynamics quickly.

Threshold

The point at which compression kicks in. Lower threshold = more compression. Setting this correctly is crucial for achieving the desired level of control without crushing the signal. It's all about finding the balance.

Knee

Hard knee means compression hits instantly at the threshold. Soft knee is more gradual, often sounding smoother and more musical, especially on vocals. Experiment to see what feels right for the source - hard knee for aggression, soft knee for finesse.

Noise Floor

This is critical, especially with gates. Cheap compressors and gates can introduce hiss or hum, especially when pushing them hard. Listen carefully in a quiet room - a clean signal is a happy signal. Noise floor is where a lot of budget units fall apart.

Buying guide

Okay, so you're wrestling with unruly dynamics, a snare that's popping like fireworks, or vocals that are breathing all over the mic? Compressors, gates, and de-essers - they're not just studio trickery; they're essential tools for taming a signal and making it sit right, whether you're tracking a killer guitar tone or battling a noisy stage. This isn't about chasing the 'perfect' sound; it's about getting the sound you want, consistently. Let's dive in and sort out what you need to know.

Don't get caught up in the hype. A $200 compressor can sound fantastic on a clean electric guitar, but it might fall apart when you're trying to tame a boomy kick drum. For gates, noise floor is the biggest dealbreaker - if it's noisy, it's useless.

Spending a bit more for a reputable brand often means better build quality and a cleaner signal path, which will save you headaches down the road. Ultimately, listen with your ears, not your wallet.

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 107 compressors, gates and de-essers from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

What's the difference between a compressor and a limiter?

A limiter is basically a compressor with a super-high ratio (often infinity:1). It's designed to prevent signals from exceeding a certain level - think mastering or keeping vocals from peaking. Compressors are more about shaping dynamics and adding character.

How do I set the threshold?

Start high and lower it gradually while listening. The goal is to get a consistent level reduction - usually around 3-6dB, but it depends on the source and the vibe you're going for. Use your ears; a meter is just a guide.

My gate is cutting off the sustain on my guitar - what's wrong?

Your threshold is probably too high or your release time is too short. Lower the threshold and/or increase the release time. Also, check for 'bleed' - unwanted sounds leaking into the mic - which can trigger the gate prematurely.

Can I use a compressor on every track?

Sure, but don't overdo it! Subtle compression on almost everything can glue a mix together, but too much will suck the life out of it. Less is often more - learn to listen for what needs compression.

What's a sidechain compressor?

It's a compressor where the gain reduction isn't triggered by the signal on that track, but by another. The classic example is a kick drum triggering a bass guitar to duck out of the way - creates a pumping effect. It's a cool trick, but can easily sound cheesy if not done tastefully.