The compressor most mastering rooms would not part with
If we could keep one dynamics processor, this would be it. The Maselec MLA-2 is a precision stereo compressor with independently variable attack and release per channel, stepped everything, and a transparency that lets you apply 3 dB of gain reduction without the listener sensing compression at all.
Why it works
The detector design is exceptionally well behaved on dense programme material. Where most bus compressors start pumping as soon as the kick and bass share a moment, the MLA-2 rides underneath the music. Slow attack, medium release, low ratio — and the master simply gets more consistent.
Stem mastering
On stem sessions we use it across the full mix after the stems are rebalanced, so the final glue happens once and happens well. It is also our go-to for the vocal stem when a mix arrives with an unruly lead.
Hardware info
Hand-built by Prismsound's Leif Mases in small numbers, the MLA-2 is among the most expensive stereo compressors available new, and used units almost never appear.
Hear it on your record
Book a master
This chain is available on every stereo and stem master we deliver from Manchester.