Varimu compression has a very unique sound and behavior when compared with other varieties of compression.. While they can be finicky, once mastered they are wonderful tools. The D864 is not really a beginner's compressor. While it doesn't thump, pop, or otherwise swamp like many varimu compressors do, it does take a bit of time to master. It sounds wonderful on a variety of sources.

We chose to base the D864 transformers on the much loved Peerless-Altec designs of the 1960's. These are very highly regarded for their signal quality to this day, and used examples fetch a premium. We chose nickel-50 core material for good signal fidelity.

For feature set, we have added some extras not found in the original build. For example: variable attack and release, as well as ratio, threshold, and input trim controls. Additionally, we included switchable bypass, link, and two unique features - Growl and Glow.

Growl is a sort of parallel germanium compression that can be switched in and out of circuit. It adds a nice, trashy edge to the sound.

Glow shifts the behavior of the output stage. It gives a more mid-forward response by shifting the way the output transformer saturates. This makes it a great tool for bringing out a vocal or snare crack within a mix. It also seems to give a bit more 'glue' to tracks.

For the enclosure, we have designed a nice, 2U high all aluminum rack-mount case. Metering is provided by a giant 2.55 round A-scale VU meter. Knobs are Chicago Daka Ware, of course.