Tube-Tech SMC 2B – The World’s Only All-Tube Multiband Compressor

The Tube-Tech SMC 2B is a groundbreaking stereo multiband optical compressor, featuring three independent tube-driven compression bands. Widely regarded as one of the most musical and versatile compressors available, the SMC 2B excels in mix bus processing, mastering, instrument groups, and live applications.

By combining wide 3-band level control with independent band-specific compression, the SMC 2B creates unmatched clarity, warmth, and dynamic control. Its ability to enhance mixes without adding unwanted artifacts makes it a favorite tool for professional engineers worldwide.

Why the SMC 2B Stays on Your Mix Bus

Unlike conventional compressors, the Tube-Tech SMC 2B offers precise control over low, mid, and high frequencies, ensuring a balanced mix with improved depth and detail. Many engineers find that, once inserted, it’s nearly impossible to remove—it simply adds too much musicality, cohesion, and warmth to be bypassed.

Key Features

• World’s Only All-Tube Multiband Compressor – Unique, musical analog compression
• Three Independent Optical Compressors – Full control over low, mid, and high bands
• Variable Crossover Frequencies – Precision tuning for any source
• Fully Transformer-Balanced I/O – Ensures pristine audio quality
• Master Output Gain & Balance Control – Fine-tune final mix levels
• Optical Gain Reduction Elements – Low distortion, natural compression
• LED Gain Reduction Display – Visual feedback for precise adjustments
• Clickless In/Out Relay – Seamless bypass without artifacts
• Gold-Plated Switches (SMC 2BM) – High durability and signal integrity

Technical Specifications

• Compression Type: Optical (Tube-Based)
• Frequency Response (-3 dB): 5 Hz – 60 kHz
• Noise Level: < -60 dBU at 10 dB gain
• CMRR: > 60 dB at 10 kHz
• Compression Bands: 3 (Low, Mid, High)
• Variable Crossover Points:
  • Low/Mid: 60 Hz – 1.2 kHz
  • Mid/High: 1.2 kHz – 6 kHz
• Controls Per Band: Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Gain
• Master Output Gain: Off to +10 dB
• Balance Control: +/-1.5 dB
• Gain Reduction Metering: LED Display
• Inputs/Outputs: Transformer-Balanced & Fully Floating

Creative & Practical Applications

• Mix Bus & Mastering – Enhances clarity, depth, and dynamic balance
• Instrument Groups – Adds cohesion to drum buses, guitar stacks, and more
• Live Sound – Brings warmth and musicality to top-tier touring acts
• De-Essing & Frequency Control – Target and remove harsh frequencies
• Dynamic Vocal Processing – Smooth out performances with natural results

FAQ: Difference Between SMC 2B and SMC 2A

The only difference between the SMC 2B and SMC 2A is the addition of an output balance control on the SMC 2B. This allows for fine-tuning small balance differences between channels.

Why Choose the Tube-Tech SMC 2B?

The Tube-Tech SMC 2B is one of the most creative and musical compressors available today. Whether you’re mixing, mastering, or working in live sound, this all-tube multiband compressor will deliver rich, dynamic, and detailed results that no other unit can match.