HARRISON Comp

Product overview

The HARRISON Comp is a classic feed-forward VCA compressor in 500 Series format: an extremely flexible dynamics processor that goes from a transparent leveler to a character compressor.

HARRISON's founder was initially sceptical about compressors, believing music should be captured authentically. The broadcast market's need for a tool to control dynamics and prevent clipping led HARRISON to design one, and its transparent leveling with just a few dB of gain reduction quickly made it indispensable in music production for smoothing vocals, guitars and other instruments with a wide dynamic range. With higher gain reduction it digs in and becomes a sought-after vibe compressor. The Comp module brings that distinctive HARRISON sound to 500 Series format.

Key features

• The HARRISON sound in 500 Series format
• Extremely flexible: from transparent leveler to character compressor
• Classic feed-forward design
• Program-dependent attack time
• Continuously variable release time from fast to slow
• Threshold, ratio and makeup gain controls
• 5-LED gain reduction meter, 2 dB per LED
• IN switch for a/b comparison
• Input overload LED
• Compatible with 500 Series format chassis

HARRISON's secret sauce: put it on everything

Use a 1:2 ratio and fast release with 2-3 dB of gain reduction for a transparent leveler on guitars and vocals, so the track has a more consistent level, or let the initial sound pass at full volume while reducing its body slightly. Slam the ratio with a slow release and it becomes a sizzling vibe compressor on drums and bass. It is a well-crafted, no-nonsense compressor: you will put it on everything.

Comp design

The attack is program-dependent, adapting to the input signal and offering an optimal attack time for the source material. The release time is continuously variable. With threshold, ratio, release and makeup output level under full control, the Comp brings loud signals down while letting quieter signals sound just as loud, for that nearby, in-your-face effect.

Controls

MAKEUP raises the output after compression and is disabled when the compressor is switched out, so you can switch between compressed and uncompressed signals at a similar volume. The 5-LED meter shows gain reduction at 2 dB per LED. RELEASE sets how fast the gain returns to unity, RATIO (1:2 to 1:10) sets the amount of compression, THRESH (-10 to +20) is turned down to meet the average signal level, and IN toggles the compressor for a/b comparison.

In the box

• Comp 500 Series module

HARRISON Comp: frequently asked questions

What do I need to use the Comp?

A 500 Series format rack (chassis). Fit the module with the rack's power off, using the panel fixing screws supplied with the rack.

Can I compare compressed and uncompressed signals?

Yes. The IN switch toggles the compressor, and the makeup gain is disabled when the compressor is out, so you compare at a similar volume.

How do I set it as a transparent leveler?

Set a low ratio such as 1:2 and a fast release, and aim for 2-3 dB of gain reduction on the meter.

Where can I buy the HARRISON Comp in India?

The HARRISON Comp is available from Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, with delivery across India.

Workflow 1: Transparent vocal leveling

Smoothing a vocal while tracking or mixing.

Connections

Setup

1. Set RATIO to 1:2 and RELEASE fast.
2. Turn THRESH down until 2-3 dB of gain reduction shows.
3. Add MAKEUP to match the level.
4. Compare with IN.

Tip: Makeup gain is disabled when the compressor is out, for a fair comparison.

Workflow 2: Drum and bass character

Adding vibe and excitement to drums or bass.

Connections

Setup

1. Raise RATIO towards 1:10.
2. Set RELEASE slow.
3. Drive THRESH for heavy gain reduction.
4. Restore level with MAKEUP.

Tip: Higher gain reduction turns the Comp into a vibe compressor.