The Rupert Neve Designs OptoFET Dual Stage Compressor a double dose of powerful dynamic shaping into your studio rack, combining the punch of FET compression with smooth Optical compression in a single unit. A classic technique for adding heft to transients before smoothing out levels and adding rich color, the OptoFET offers a dual stage mode that puts these two flavorful compressors in series. Swap the order of each compressor to explore versatile tones with different compression characters, giving you complete control to define your sound. Alternatively, dual band mode enables using each compressor in separate frequency zones controlled by the X-OVER IN button and Crossover control. Keep that bass under strict control while leaving the mids and highs free for more dynamic enhancement, or explore a vast range of other unique characters with different settings and compression flavors in either band.
 
While the OptoFET enables versatile dynamic shaping and coloration for complex results, using the compressor is relatively intuitive. Input and output level controls allow you to fine tune gain staging across the processor, while comprehensive controls for each compressor give you nearly limitless control over your sound. In the FET stage, Attack and Release times are variable with the fast and snappy response that makes FET designs a great choice for punchy transient processing. Adjust Threshold and Gain to set the compression response and add rich color, while the Blend control enables parallel processing techniques. A sidechain high pass filter is onboard for leaving low frequency information out of the compression processing when needed. The illuminated GRIT button adjusts the sidechain circuit to allow more savory saturation from the compressor, adding the special sauce that makes drums punch through a mix.
 
The Optical compressor design in OptoFET offers a smooth and slow response in comparison to the FET circuit, generating low-order harmonics while evening out dynamic information for a lush and musical sound. Variable Attack and Release times, Threshold, Gain, and Ratio controls are also available here, letting you fine tune the compression response for professional studio sound no matter your creative vision. In the Optical compressor, RND has added a unique BLOOM switch which significantly increases low-order harmonics, warming every sound up to a sizzle with a robust low end. At the center of the OptoFET you'll find global controls for switching modes and crossover position, providing a pivot point for a wide range of studio techniques. Whether you're looking for a dedicated unit to add studio-grade compression to vocals, instruments, and other sources, or just need a compact solution for a classic mixing technique, the OptoFET from Rupert Neve Designs offers a dynamic duo like no other.