The Rupert Neve Designs OptoFET Dual Stage Compressor is a groundbreaking analog dynamics processor that combines two distinctly voiced compressors - an all-new ultra-fast FET design and a refined optical compressor - into a single, immensely flexible 1U rack unit.
Designed for engineers who want total creative control over dynamics and tone, the OptoFET can operate as a serial dual-stage compressor or as a true dual-band processor, opening up entirely new approaches to compression, tone shaping, and harmonic enhancement. From transparent control to extreme envelope sculpting, the OptoFET is built to inspire experimentation at every stage of production. In Dual Stage mode, the FET and OPTO compressors run in series, allowing you to stack fast transient control with smooth, musical leveling—an industry-proven technique now made effortless. In Dual Band mode, each compressor is assigned to either the low or high frequency band, with a continuously variable crossover from 50 Hz to 500 Hz for precise frequency-dependent dynamics. Each compressor section features fully variable attack, release, threshold, make-up gain, and parallel blend controls, plus side-chain high-pass filters and unique harmonic modes: GRIT for aggressive upper-harmonic saturation in the FET stage, and BLOOM for warm, low-order harmonic enhancement in the OPTO stage. With global input/output trim, order flip, and mastering-grade 31-position detented controls throughout, the OptoFET delivers unmatched precision, flexibility, and unmistakable Rupert Neve Designs character.
Rupert Neve OptoFET Dual Stage Compressor Features
- Dual compressor design combining FET and Optical compression in a single 1U unit
- Dual Stage mode for serial compression with selectable order
- Dual Band mode assigns each compressor to low or high frequencies
- Variable crossover control from 50 Hz to 500 Hz
- Independent control sets for FET and OPTO compressors
- 31-position detented controls for precise, repeatable settings
- Parallel Blend control on each compressor for effortless parallel compression
- GRIT mode adds harmonic saturation and wave shaping in the FET stage
- BLOOM mode enhances low-order harmonics and low-end warmth in the OPTO stage
- Side-chain high-pass filters (125 Hz) on both compressors
- Global input and output trim controls (±12 dB)
- Hard-wire bypass for both compressors
- Designed for tracking, mixing, mastering, sound design, and touring
- Pair two units for ultra-flexible dual-mono or stereo processing
Rupert Neve OptoFET Dual Stage Compressor Specifications
- Input Impedance: 10 kΩ
- Output Impedance: 40 Ω
- Maximum Input Level: +24 dBu @ 1 kHz
- Maximum Output Level: +24 dBu @ 1 kHz
- Frequency Response (Bypassed):
- 6 Hz – 70 kHz ±0.1 dB
- <5 Hz – 183 kHz (-3 dB)
- Noise (22 Hz – 22 kHz): -96 dBu (bypassed)
- THD+N @ 1 kHz:
- 0 dBu: 0.002%
- +20 dBu: 0.0006%
- FET Compressor Attack: 100 µs – 50 ms
- FET Compressor Release: 50 ms – 1.5 s
- OPTO Compressor Attack: 5 ms – 50 ms
- OPTO Compressor Release: 50 ms – 1.5 s
- Dimensions: 19" W × 8.25" D × 1.75" H (1U)
- Weight: 8 lbs (3.6 kg)
Rupert Neve OptoFET Dual Stage Compressor Includes
- Rupert Neve OptoFET Dual Stage Compressor
- Power Cable
- Manufacturer Warranty
1 Review Hide Reviews Show Reviews
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Awesome Vocal Compressor
Mar 17th 2026I own several of the top compressors and this beat them all on vocals. I use the FET section to hit the fast transients with a fast attack, fast release then use the opto section to tame the slower sections. The icing on the cake is to use the mix knob on each to retain a bit more openness. I do about 80% on each to get a perfect blend of added weight, presence, detail and air. Where this beats my other 1176 type FET compressor is the retention of detail in the mids. Sometimes I also find that FET comps can be a little too fast for my liking, the slowest attacks are too fast. This is not an issue with the optoFET. It can go as slow as I need. If you're going to get one compressor, especially for vocals, this is the one.
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