Originally Posted by Joelhume ➡️

Anyone had a chance to compare the BG1 to the Phoenix?

Originally Posted by drBill ➡️

I've got the Manley Vari-Mu with TBar and HPF. Great sounding unit, rock solid, killer overall.

I've got a pair of Weight Tank Comps which are also VariMu and sound great as well. Different. They get used on guitars a lot.

I've got a single V Comp from Audio-Scape - essentially a modernized Sta Level. Also great. I'm thinking maybe a bit too heavy for my particular mix bus uses, but really awesome on Bass, vocals, etc..

And....I'm kinda in the market for a stereo pair that I can alternate on 2 Bus with the Manley. Something vibey, but different than the Manley.


Right now, the main contenders are :

Locomotive Audio 14B. Tilts a bit towards a HF lift where the Manley pushes towards warm. Their new direct sales pricing has made them a SERIOUS contender IMO

A second V Comp, but I have the feeling that it will end up on individual tracks more than it would the stereo bus, so it's maybe a touch less of a priority.

And, the runner up for me would be the highland dynamics BG1 stereo unit.

Originally Posted by e-are ➡️

Have you thought about a Tegeler Audio VTC?

Originally Posted by drBill ➡️

Nope. Should I? It would have to be compelling to make my short list which is already $20k long.....

Originally Posted by e-are ➡️

Not sure
I have one but don't have another to compare it too. Trying to get a Manley loaner for comparison.
$20k short list? drBill's house of gear huh?

Originally Posted by Paul_G ➡️

That last QES took forever to sell on Reverb. Is it because the designer died or they look so ugly?

I bet a Varis doesn’t sound better than a Phoenix which whooped the Rockruepel I had on trial.