SSL LMC+ 500 Series CompressorThe legendary Listen Mic Compressor evolved

Used unit in very good cosmetic condition.

The SSL LMC+ Module brings one of the most coveted dynamics processors from recording history into the 500 series format with significant enhancements. Originally found in the legendary SL 4000E console, the Listen Mic Compressor became a secret weapon for producers and engineers throughout the 1980s, delivering an aggressive and highly distinctive compression character.

This enhanced version retains all the original sonic qualities while adding powerful new features for modern production workflows.

Fixed curves that defined an era of drum sounds

The original LMC circuit was designed to prevent overload on studio talkback microphone returns, but engineers quickly discovered its fixed attack and release curves were perfectly suited for ambient drum microphones. The aggressive grab and fast release create that unmistakable explosive room sound heard on countless classic recordings.

Beyond drums, the SSL LMC+ has found applications on backing vocals, electric guitars, parallel compression buses, and countless creative sound design scenarios where conventional compression falls short.

Variable filters and sidechain routing

The SSL LMC+ expands on the original design with variable high pass and low pass filters, allowing precise targeting of specific frequency ranges before compression. The filters can be routed to the compressor sidechain, enabling frequency-conscious dynamics control that responds only to selected portions of the spectrum.

A wet/dry blend control provides instant parallel compression capabilities directly within the module, eliminating complex routing requirements while maintaining full control over the compression balance.

Scoop and Split modes for advanced sound sculpting

Two innovative features set the SSL LMC+ apart from conventional compressors. The Scoop button phase-inverts the wet signal, creating unusual tonal possibilities when blended with the dry signal. This technique can produce subtle enhancement or dramatic frequency cancellation effects depending on settings.

The Split button engages a bandpass subtraction mode that compresses only specific frequencies while leaving others untouched. The processed and unprocessed signals recombine at the output stage. These modes can subtly enhance source material or completely deconstruct audio for experimental sound design.

Technical specifications

• Enhanced version of the SL 4000E Listen Mic Compressor
• Fixed attack and release curves
• Variable SSL high pass filter
• Variable SSL low pass filter
• Filters to compressor sidechain routing
• Wet/dry blend control for parallel compression
• Scoop button (phase inverts wet signal)
• Split button (bandpass subtraction mode)
• 500 series format compatible