Rupert Neve Designs RND 5046 OptoFET

The OptoFET is an extremely versatile analog compressor that combines a newly designed FET compression circuit with an optimized optical compression circuit, all in a single rack unit. For many years the RND engineering team has been experimenting with FET compressor designs, but only recently did it feel the time was right to release the first such circuit. In Dual Stage mode, the FET and OPTO compressors operate in series for total dynamic control over the most critical sources. In Dual Band mode, each compressor works on a different frequency band, allowing independent treatment that takes the dynamic and timbral control of the OptoFET to an unprecedented level. While retaining familiar features such as ultra-fast attack times and classic compression ratios, this compressor introduces distinctive elements that make it instantly recognizable as a Rupert Neve Designs product. There are also global controls to reverse the order of the two compressors in Dual Stage mode, and a variable crossover control to fine-tune the separation between low and high bands in Dual Band mode. Although a mono unit, a pair of OptoFETs used in dual mono can offer a major impact on stereo stems, groups, or even complete mixes. Designed for tracking, touring, mixing, mastering and sound design, the OptoFET provides exceptional control over the dynamics and tonal shape of the source. GRIT mode turns the FET compressor into a powerful wave shaper, introducing harmonic distortion focused on high frequencies. It can be used to slightly "surface" a source or to radically transform it, especially in combination with the Blend control. RND has made several optical compression circuits over the years, but the OptoFET one has been further developed to better complement the faster, higher-frequency-focused FET compressor. The OPTO compressor generates low-order harmonics and is characterized by slower attack and release times. With BLOOM active, low-order harmonics increase significantly, making the source warmer, rounder and fuller-bodied at low frequencies. It is ideal for refining timbre without resorting to traditional EQ.