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Z&H VCA Compressor Release – versatile compressor by Z&H Designs

August 16, 2025

Z&H Designs is releasing its flagship model - the Z&H VCA Compressor. It offers a combination of British-style "glue compression" and American-style transient-oriented processing features.

The front panel of the device has two rows of controls. The upper row contains the Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Sidechain, and Make Up parameters. Next to the Threshold control is the Glue/FWD switch, which allows you to select one of two modes: "British" or "American." Two more switches in the center allow you to select Soft-Knee mode and automatic Release.

Z&H VCA Compressor pic 2

The bottom row of controls is responsible for sound "coloring." When this section is disabled, the device provides clean compression with a harmonic ratio of less than 0.005%. When activated, users can adjust the distortion level, raising this figure to 1%. This section is based on a pair of transformers and includes Boom and Spark controls, which increase the harmonic component at 120 Hz and 10 kHz, respectively. You can precisely adjust the tone using the Z&H control, and you can activate parallel processing using the Mix control. The right section features a Rate control and an Auto button that activates an automatic smooth fade-out (Auto Fade) at the end of the track.

Z&H VCA Compressor Main Features:

Meticulously built with premium components, the Z&H VCA Compressor delivers mastering-grade performance with remarkable sonic flexibility.

Z&H VCA Compressor pic 3
  • Glue/Punch mode switch.
  • Transformer-coupled colour module.
  • Spark & Boom EQ feedback circuit.
  • Tilt & HP sidechain filters.
  • Expanded attack & release controls.
  • Auto Fade (Analog VCA-based).
  • Parallel Mix control.
  • Ultra low distortion: <0.005%.
  • -95dBu noise floor.

The Z&H VCA Compressor will be available for purchase at a price of around $2,000. For more detailed information about the compressor, please visit the product page on the official Z&H Designs website.

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