BAE 500C 500 Series FET Compressor

Name: BAE 500C
Brand: BAE

A 500 Series FET compressor module designed as an affordable alternative to the Universal Audio 1176.

Overview

The BAE 500C is a 500 Series FET compressor module built by BAE. It's meant to be a cost-effective counterpart to the classic Universal Audio 1176, with a similar sonic character in a modular format. The unit has a fully enclosed construction. It's praised for handling dynamic sources without dulling transients, which makes it effective on snare drums, electric guitar, and vocals - for subtle dynamics control and for extreme sonic shaping alike.

Specifications

Product type	500 Series FET compressor module
Format	500 Series format
Controls	Input gain, output gain, Attack, Release, Ratio selector
Ratio selector settings	2:1, 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1
Features	high-pass filter, Bypass switch, GR (gain reduction) OFF mode
Metering	12 LED meter
Internal components	three 2520 op-amps and transformer-coupled output
Construction	fully enclosed

Design

The BAE 500C uses three 2520 op-amps and a transformer-coupled output. It has an ABI (all buttons in) mode. The control layout follows older FET compressor designs, with dedicated knobs for Input, Output, Attack, Release, and a Ratio selector. All of them are noted for a solid, precise feel.

Context

The 500C is an affordable alternative to the Universal Audio 1176 FET compressor. It brings aggressive, musical compression into the 500 Series format and targets engineers who want classic character at a lower price.