WesAudio _DIONE NG500 500 Series Analogue Bus Compressor

The Iconic Mixbus Glue, Redefined for the Modern Hybrid Studio

The WesAudio _DIONE is a high-performance stereo bus compressor that bridges legendary analogue tone with seamless digital control. Built for mixing and mastering engineers, it delivers 100% analogue signal path with total digital recall via DAW plugin control. Four THAT 2181 VCAs provide the classic "glue" with +24dBu headroom, while switchable THD and advanced sidechain filtering ensure professional results across any genre. Compact 500-series format, true bypass relay, and ng500 compatibility complete this modern hybrid solution.

Pure Analogue Power with Massive Headroom
At the heart of the _DIONE are four high-quality THAT 2181 VCAs, utilised in both the signal path and sidechain detection circuit for uncompromising transparency and speed. While many 500-series modules struggle with signal peaks, _DIONE offers a generous +24dBu of headroom, ensuring your transients remain sharp and your low end stays tight even under heavy compression. This massive dynamic range allows you to push your mixes further while maintaining the depth and presence expected from high-end outboard gear.

Total Recall and Analogue Automation
The standout innovation of the _DIONE is its digital control layer, which allows you to manage every analogue parameter through a dedicated plugin in VST, AU, or AAX formats. Featuring three touch-sensitive encoders, the unit lets you record real-time analogue automation directly into your DAW as if you were using a software plugin. This eliminates the need for manual recall sheets and photographs, as every setting is saved within your session and instantly restored when you reopen the project.

Advanced Sonic Colouration and Filtering
Beyond traditional compression, _DIONE introduces modern features like switchable Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) with Medium and High modes, allowing you to saturate the wet signal with rich, musical analogue warmth. To ensure the compressor reacts perfectly to your material, it includes a versatile sidechain filter with three high-pass settings (60, 90, 150Hz) and two specialised "Tilt" filters. These tilt curves help tame low-frequency pumping, making it easier than ever to achieve a balanced, professional sound across any genre.

Main features:

• 100% analogue signal path with +24dBu headroom for maximum dynamic range
• Four THAT 2181 VCAs providing legendary speed, transparency, and "glue"
• Total digital recall and plugin control via VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX
• Three touch-sensitive encoders for recording real-time analogue automation into your DAW
• Dedicated mix knob for effortless parallel compression without extra routing
• Switchable Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) with Medium and High modes for added warmth
• Advanced sidechain filtering with three high-pass frequencies and two specialised tilt curves
• Hardware A/B comparison buttons for instant setting evaluation
• Full ng500 compatibility for near wire-free operation in WesAudio _TITAN chassis
• True bypass relay ensures signal integrity when the unit is not engaged

Tech Specs:

• Type: Solid State VCA Compressor
• Number of Channels: 2 (Stereo linked)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz (±0.1dB)
• THD (WET): 0.008% (1kHz, 0dBu)
• THD (DRY): 0.004% (1kHz, 0dBu)
• Input Impedance: 10k ohm
• Output Impedance: < 100 ohm
• Max Gain: 21dB
• Crosstalk: < -90dB
• Headroom: +24dBu
• Ratios: 1.5:1, 2:1, 4:1, 10:1
• Attack Times: 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10, 30 (ms)
• Release Times: 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, Auto (s)
• Sidechain Filters: 60, 90, 150 Hz, T1, T2 (Tilt)
• THD Modes: Medium (1%), High (3%)
• Bypass: Yes, hardware relay-based true bypass
• Module Type: 500 Series / ng500 (Double slot format)
• Computer Connection: Front Panel Mini-USB or via WesAudio _TITAN Chassis
• Power Consumption: 70mA (+16V) / 50mA (-16V) per slot
• Dimensions: 76 x 133 x 158 mm
• Warranty: 2 Years
• Explore WesAudio Premium Analogue Gear (_DIONE): https://wesaudio.com/product/_dione/