Chandler Limited RS660 Compressor

Full Description

Two classics combined into one

Basing its design around two classics, the RS660 combines elements from 660 and RS124 style compressors to create this tonal powerhouse. Each of the classic designs was revered for their unique tonal quality and reactivity. The originals were used on countless hit recordings, including giving Ringo’s (The Beatles) cymbals their unique ‘backwards’ style effect on some songs. Its versatile tonal nature means it can be used on a variety of sound sources including drums, vocals, guitars and more.

Controlling dynamics has never been easier with the fine-tuned design of the RS660 providing flexible and unique tonal controls. At the heart of the Chandler Limited RS660 is a 6386 valve (vacuum tube) that gives the compressor its unique sound. You can even utilise compression without colouration by switching the RS660 to THD (total harmonic distortion) mode. When activated, the THD mode is capable of producing overdrive and distortion effects, allowing for signal colouration as well as limiting.

Three modes with Link input and impedance switching

The streamlined and vintage-style front panel features classic VU metering and variable (stepped optional) controls for the input/output level. There is also a three-position switch for toggling between the three modes including THD, Limit and Comp settings. The ‘Time Constant’ control is used to set the reactivity/response time of the RS660 with seven stepped positions. Positions 1-3 replicate the faster and most popular settings of a 660-style compressor providing vintage-style tonality. Set to position four, the time constant provides a moderate setting – great for vocals and guitars without colour. Positions 5-7 provide low artefact compression of vintage valve compressors providing a slow response time.

For stereo operation, you can link two RS660’s together via the ‘Link’ input located on the rear panel. You can also change the overall impedance using the rear-panel switch, allowing you to toggle between 600 and 200 ohms, with each setting offering tonal and gain differences. Keeping with the vintage-style aesthetic, the RS660’s employs retro controls housed within a 19-inch (2U) rack-mountable chassis.

Reviews

"My usual time to integrate new analogue gear is anywhere from two weeks to two months. The RS660 went right into action on the Norah Jones vocals of the unreleased songs from her seminal 2020 release of "Come Away With Me." I’m old enough that my ears remember the sound of well-designed tube analogue gear. The RS660 compressor is nostalgia for my ears, warm, accurate and simple. I’ve come to realize that whatever piece of gear Wade develops I’m going to need it in my hybrid set up. The RS660 Compressor is another piece I will use on every mix, for all my days; save up for this one!" - Tony Maserati (Beyonce, Alicia Keys, P!nk)

"The RS660 is truly an inspiring take on a classic. What this compressor does for drums is fantastic…from subtle snare use to grinding drum rooms. Guitars get a nice bit of glue and tonal warm up, bass get set in and heard without over compression. But vocals, for me, are where the RS660 really shines; you get that tone and texture but with a modern push forward. The RS660 will be as used as my RS124’s for all my tracking." - Howard Willing (Smashing Pumpkins, Dolly Parton, Ida Mae)

"The RS660 is an instant classic for me. It’s even more versatile than its tonal influences and gives me options in compression that I’ve never experienced before. It can be as gentle or aggressive as you like. It can be gentle on a vocal or nasty and harmonically rich on an aggressive track." - Ryan Hewitt (The Lumineers, Aryan Hewitt, Red Hot Chilli Peppers)

Features

• Combines elements from 660 and RS124 style compressors
• Incorporates the same unique tonality as its iconic counterparts
• Great for use on vocals, drums and guitars
• Fine-tuned design with flexible/unique tonal controls
• Based around a 6386 vacuum tube
• Three switchable modes – Limit, Comp and THD
• THD mode can also be used to create overdrive/distortion effects
• Time Constant stepped control for changing reactivity/response time with seven positions
• Vintage-style design with front-panel VU metering
• Stereo ‘Link’ input for connecting two RS660s together
• Impedance switch – toggle between 600 and 200 ohms
• Rack-mountable design (19-inch, 2U)

Specifications

• Channels: Mono
• Type: Valve - 6386, 6CG7, 6AL5
• I/O: XLR, Transformer Balanced
• Output Impedance: Selectable, 200/600 ohms
• Input/Output Control: Continuous (Stepped Optional)
• Time Constant: 7 Positions, Stepped
• Modes: THD, Comp, Limit
• Stereo Link: Switchable, 1/4-inch jack
• Powe: Internal, Wired for Region — 110-120V/220-240V
• Product Code: RS660