PYE 588S Stereo Feed-Forward Compressor

Product Overview

The PYE 588S compressor is a modern 500-series stereo feed-forward compressor inspired by classic PYE designs and refined by Ted Fletcher for today’s studios. Operating in true feed-forward mode, it senses the incoming signal and generates a control voltage that sets the momentary compression ratio and attack behaviour, so gain changes track transients very closely. This approach delivers precise level control, improved separation and added clarity in the low and high frequencies, while preserving the life and dynamics of complex programme material. A transformer-balanced input and carefully tuned sidechain give the PYE 588S its distinctive, forward-sounding tone.

Key Features

• • Stereo 500-series feed-forward compressor based on the PYE concept and Ted Fletcher’s 588 design work.

• • Feed-forward control circuit senses the input signal and drives a gain-setting stage near the output for fast, accurate compression.

• • Transformer-balanced input for robust interfacing and subtle analogue colour on mix bus and stems.

• • Continuously variable threshold and ratio with programme-dependent behaviour that tightly controls median levels while avoiding obvious pumping.

• • Fast, switchable attack and carefully tuned release times that eliminate overshoot and allow short releases without noticeable over-compression.

• • Feed-forward topology enhances event separation, adds clarity to bass and pulls the source forward in the stereo image.

• • Stereo-linked operation with matched left/right control paths for stable imaging and consistent gain reduction.

• • 500-series format for easy integration into existing lunchbox racks alongside mic pres, EQs and other outboard modules.

Applications

Use the PYE 588S compressor on stereo mix bus, drum bus, guitars and vocal groups when you want precise, punchy compression that adds energy without sounding clinical. The feed-forward design keeps transients under tight control, raises quieter passages smoothly and maintains musical dynamics, making the PYE 588S a powerful tool for modern hybrid mixing and mastering chains.

Combine the PYE 588S compressor with high-quality mic preamps and EQ modules in our dynamics processors and EQ and filters pages to build complete 500-series processing chains. For more stereo bus and feed-forward designs related to the PYE 588S, visit our main Alice section on Broadcasters Warehouse.