The Neve 33609 stereo bus compressor and limiter is inspired by the original Neve 2254 compressor from 1969, featuring a bridged-diode gain reduction circuit and custom transformers. Renowned for its distinct musical character, the 33609 has become a studio staple, prized for its ability to add warmth and punch to mixes. This compressor's design captures the essence of classic analog processing, making it ideal for bus compression and dynamic control.

This software version is the only Neve-approved recreation of the 33609 (revision C), faithfully replicating every detail of the hardware unit with precise accuracy. It models the compression curves and nonlinear behaviors that define the original's sound, including program-dependent auto-release settings that adapt to the input signal. Users can switch between stereo and mono operation, and access controls for link, output gain, and headroom to tailor the compression effect to their needs.

Additionally, the plugin includes a DSP-optimized 33609SE variant designed for higher instance counts, enabling efficient use in complex sessions without sacrificing sonic quality. This combination of authentic analog emulation and modern software optimization makes the Neve 33609 plugin a powerful tool for achieving classic bus compression tones in contemporary digital workflows.