Neve’s VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) compressors were first introduced in the early 1970s with the 50 Series consoles. These compressors offered greater precision and flexibility compared to the classic, gentle compression of the Neve Diode Bridge design. Over the decades, VCA compressors have become a cornerstone of Neve consoles, featuring prominently in iconic models like the VR and 88R series. The 88C continues this legacy by incorporating two complete VCA compressors derived from the 88R console’s channel strip.

The 88C is powered via USB 3.0+ through a USB-C connector, enabling seamless desktop operation directly from your computer. Its USB-powered design also enhances portability, allowing it to connect easily to any USB 3.0-compatible wall adapter when you’re on the go.

Building on the success of the 88M two-channel mic preamp, the 88C features a durable leatherette casing. Its robust, road-ready design ensures maximum portability, whether you’re working in the studio or on the go.

With a maximum +18dB threshold and built-in limiting capabilities, the 88C is the perfect companion to the Neve 88M for precise transient control. It also excels as a standalone stereo or mono compressor, delivering up to an impressive -50dB of gain reduction!

The 88C offers variable ratio settings, extending to full signal limiting. Paired with the ultra-fast attack of the 88R compressor circuit, it excels as a brick-wall limiter, making it ideal for mastering applications.

Leveraging the advanced attack circuitry of the 88RS channel strip compressor, the 88C’s adaptive attack design delivers a seamlessly organic response to input transients, balancing musicality with uncompromising precision.

The triple time constant technology in the auto-release circuit enables set-and-forget operation, effortlessly smoothing transients across a wide range of instruments or full program material.

Three high-pass frequency sidechain filters provide precise control over compression. With selectable filters at 80Hz, 125Hz, and 300Hz, low-end signals remain uncompressed, enabling the 88C to focus compression on a targeted frequency range.

The 88C features a True Bypass design, selectable on a per-channel basis, which directly connects the input and output terminals for an unaltered, transparent signal path. This allows for seamless A/B signal referencing, ensuring precise comparisons for your mixes.

With two independent compressor channels, the 88C is perfect for mono or dual-channel compression. The 88R console’s VCA bus linking feature enables stereo linking, allowing both channels to function as a cohesive pair while preserving independent control over each.