WORKING CONDITION: Very Good. This limiter exhibits fantastic character, especially on drums and stereo mixes, but a little known secret weapon for session guitar players! Some of the potentiometers are a little scratchy when dialed, but this does not affect performance. The unit sounds great at every setting. 

PHYSICAL CONDITION: Good. There is some pitting of the metalwork on the chassis but the Blue Face looks really good.

INVENTORY #57589

BRAND: Ashly

MODEL: SC-55 - "BlueFace"

FUNCTION: Stereo Peak Compressor Limiter

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: This listing is for an Ashly SC-55 Stereo Peak Compressor Limiter

SPECS:

• Serial# 55-0370
• Stereo functionality: The SC-55 is the stereo version of the Ashly SC-50, designed to maintain correct stereo imaging during compression. It has a single set of controls for both channels.
• Distinct versions: The SC-55 was released in two main versions with different sonic characteristics.
  • Blueface: Early 1970s versions featured a semi-discrete VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) block with LM394 and LM301 op-amps, contributing to a "dirty and gnarly" character.
  • Blackface: Later versions from the 1980s used a DBX integrated circuit for the VCA, which results in a different sound from the earlier models.
• Opto-style sound: Many users compare its sonic character to opto-compressors like the LA-3A or LA-4, noting its fast attack but slow, logarithmic release.
• Vintage color: Unlike modern, transparent compressors, the SC-55 is prized for the musical color it adds to a signal, particularly when used on drum buses or individual instruments like guitar and bass.
• Thickening without compression: With low or no compression, the gain knob can be used to add a subtle "thickening" to the sound.
• Classic build: Ashly gear from this era was known for its rugged, "bullet-proof" reliability and simple, repairable through-hole component design.
• Modern applications: Today, the SC-55 is a sought-after piece of equipment in recording studios, valued for its vintage tone on drums, bass, and other sources

ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: This item comes as seen in photos and does not include any accessories.

UNPACKAGED WEIGHT: 8lbs.

UNPACKAGED DIMENSIONS: 19" x 4" x 6"