Pentode Audio Launches VTC-1 Vacuum Tube Compressor Plugin
As long as people inhabit the planet, it looks like we can count on them to come with new twists on compressor plugins.
The latest to arrive on Earth is the Pentode Audio VTC-1, which they describe as a “special analog modeled virtual VST compressor” whose signature characteristic are a warm analog, fat pumping, and transparent sound.
The controls of the VTC-1 are notable for that they lack, as well as what they add.
What makes it different is its internal signal path and controls: there is no threshold knob, so users set the amount of compression by increasing or decreasing the input level, in the manner of vintage analog tube compressors. Meanwhile, the compression amount knob is similar to ratio knob at modern compressors.
Users can select two curves of compression with a switch: significant compression or smooth curve. If a fat/massive sound is preferred, users can boost the input signal from the (virtual) vacuum tubes by turning up the tube drive knob.
We took notice when Pentode launched the TRW-1 Vacuum Tube Triode Warmer back in November. The VTC-1 should be optimal for mixers looking to add authentic-sounding sounding analog color inside the box, but with a desirable level of transparency.
Mac heads, note you’ll need a PC for this Windows only plugin. It’s 17.17 Euros, or $23.45 at today’s exchange rates. A free demo is available. Now feast your eyes upon more details from Pentode:
TOP FEATURES:
– compression amount knob
– standard attack and release knobs with analog modeled behavior
– input knob that control amount of compression / level of compression
– compression amount knob (similar to ratio selector)
– switch: significant compression (hard curve) or smooth curve (soft curve)
– tube drive knob for real sounding analog warmth and saturation
– post-gain knob
– bypass knob and gain reduction meter