Gearank

Gearank Recommendation

The Pete's Place Audio BAC-500 appeared on our recommended list for 500 Series Compressors in December 2021 where it remained until November 2022 when it was out-ranked by the RND 543 and RND 535..

Overview

The BAC-500 was designed by Brad Avenson, a renowned engineer and inventor with multiple patents for audio devices.

It was designed to be a mix between vintage warmth and modern response while having the flavor of FET designed compressors for more "mojo" when pushed.

While most 1176 style comps aim for complete replication, the BAC-500 takes influence from it but morphs it into its own monster, foregoing transparency for character.

Specifications

• Controls: Input, Attack, Release, Output
• Maximum Input Levels/Output Levels: +50dB
• Attack: 20ms to 75 ms
• Release: 100ms to 2.5 sec
• Ratio: 2:1, 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1