Z&H Designs Launches Z&H VCA Compressor

Here we present our latest release — the Z&H VCA Compressor, a modern-classic reimagining that brings together Glue and Punch modes, transformer colour, feedback EQ, auto fade and more.

The Z&H VCA Compressor is a flagship dynamics processor designed for engineers who require both precision and versatility in modern production workflows. Drawing from decades of analogue heritage, it unites the iconic “glue” characteristic of British-style bus compressors with the forward, transient-focused response of classic American VCA designs.

Engineered for critical mixbus, group, and stem applications, it incorporates a wide range of tone-shaping features, including transformer-based harmonic enhancement, Z&H’s proprietary Spark and Boom feedback circuits, and a full suite of sidechain filtering options. Advanced control over attack and release times, a soft-knee toggle, parallel compression via a Mix control, and the return of a 100% analogue Auto Fade function make it a highly adaptable solution in any studio.

Meticulously built with premium components, the Z&H VCA Compressor delivers mastering-grade performance with remarkable sonic flexibility.

Glue/Punch mode switch.
Transformer-coupled colour module.
Spark & Boom EQ feedback circuit.
Tilt & HP sidechain filters.
Expanded attack & release controls.
Auto Fade (Analog VCA-based).
Parallel Mix control.
Ultra low distortion: <0.005%.
-95dBu noise floor.

Chosen for Character & Control

The Z&H VCA Compressor makes dynamic shaping effortless, whether you need smooth, polished cohesion or bold, punchy impact. Use Glue mode with parallel mix to tame overly lively tracks without flattening them, and dial in transformer harmonics to find that sweet spot where clarity meets rich warmth. A touch of Boom or Spark subtly enhances lows or highs, giving you refined control. Switch to FWD mode when you want sharper transients and striking punch, shaping sound with precise attack settings and sidechain filtering. From transparent levelling to vivid, characterful compression, the Z&H VCA lets you sculpt dynamics with confidence and style.

It’s Not Just Glue. It’s Gravity.

Two iconic modes: classic British-style Glue and American-style Punch (FWD). On a mixbus, Glue mode effortlessly enhances cohesion and smoothness. When working with drums or pianos, FWD mode precisely captures transients for a more lively, energetic sound. You can even place FWD on your mixbus, combine it with the flexible Mix control for parallel compression, and achieve an exceptionally solid and full-bodied lift.

Colour You Can Hear

The Z&H Colour Module is where real magic happens. With the module bypassed, it delivers ultra-clean compression with distortion below 0.005%. Engage it, and you can smoothly dial in transformer saturation up to 1%, adding subtle harmonic flavour as desired—driven by a pair of classic American transformers working their magic inside a carefully engineered Z&H circuit

Spark & Boom

Spark = air at 10kHz. Boom = weight at 120Hz. But it’s not EQ—it’s feedback from the transformer windings themselves. A subtle, organic shift in tone you won’t find in plugin land.

Auto Fade is Back

Used to be a standard on British consoles. Now it's here again: a true analogue Auto Fade function built directly into the compressor. One switch, one knob, an elegant outro—no automation needed.

Precision-engineered to mastering-grade standards.

The entire unit uses premium modern VCA chips, carefully matched to achieve ultra-low distortion better than 0.005%.

It features a meticulously designed modern power supply and high-quality PCB layout, ensuring a consistently excellent noise floor better than -95 dBu.

Built with top-tier BC resistors and Panasonic capacitors, every component is carefully selected for optimal performance.

Handcrafted & verified by human, for human.

Before it gets shipped, 2 real mixing engineers will test it and sign their names, so will every craftsman who participated in the making. Boutique-grade craftsmanship makes no effort in producing many.

It's a "ZEN" & a "Hit"

"Zen" is our sonic design philosophy for those on the clean side. It is a nourishing vibe that is juicy and satisfying to all ears. "Hit" as opposed to "Zen" is for those on the "dirty" side. It adds that beautiful analog colour to your sound, delivering a punchy and powerful result.

14-day tryout & satisfaction guarantee

With all the hopes that you would be happy with our product, if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase for any reason, you may return it to us for a full refund. You have 14 days to try out the unit after receiving your item to request a return. Read our refund policy for more details.

Proud 5-year warranty

We offer a 5-year warranty to all our pro audio gear. Within the warranty period, if a product suffers from a defect, you are welcomed to let us cover the cost to repair, which will be conducted by the nearest designated service center.

Timely service & support

Say goodbye to months of waiting - we fix most issues within 14 days thanks to our comprehensive technical support and the expanding global network of repair centers. Affordable replacement parts are provided for any damages or accidents throughout the lifetime of your unit.

See Z&H VCA Compressor at our website:

https://zhdesigns.audio/products/vca-compressor

Sound samples are available to download.

The retail price is USD 1,999. Ship by the end of August 2025.