Audiority LDC2 Compander is a versatile analog-modeled optical compressor and expander plugin that aims to capture the warmth and character of vintage hardware units. Drawing inspiration from classic optical compressors like the LA-2A, the LDC2 Compander offers a unique twist by providing 17 different optical circuit models to choose from, allowing users to fine-tune their compression and expansion characteristics. This plugin features a fixed 4:1 ratio compressor with up to 40 dB of gain reduction and a 3:1 ratio expander with up to 30 dB of gain reduction. The LDC2 Compander’s interface is clean and intuitive, with large VU meters for input, output, and gain reduction monitoring. It includes controls for input and output gain, compression and expansion thresholds, attack and release times, as well as a mix knob for parallel processing. The plugin also offers a sidechain high-pass filter and a preamp section with adjustable drive and output, adding harmonic coloration to the signal.
Pros:
• 17 unique optical circuit models provide a wide range of compression and expansion flavors
• Intuitive interface with large, easy-to-read VU meters
• Flexible sidechain options with external input and high-pass filter
• Preamp section adds analog-style harmonic coloration
• Zero-latency operation makes it suitable for tracking and live use
Cons:
• Fixed compression and expansion ratios may limit flexibility for some users
The LDC2 Compander’s feature set is designed to provide users with a comprehensive optical compression and expansion toolkit. At its heart are the 17 real-time optical circuit models, each offering a distinct character and response. These models simulate various photocells and light sources, allowing users to explore a range of vintage and modern compression behaviors. The compressor section operates with a fixed 4:1 ratio, which is typical of many classic optical compressors. It can apply up to 40 dB of gain reduction, providing ample headroom for taming dynamic sources.
The expander section, with its 3:1 ratio and up to 30 dB of expansion, is a unique addition that sets the LDC2 apart from many other optical compressor emulations. This feature allows users to increase dynamic range and reduce noise, making it particularly useful for cleaning up recordings or adding punch to drums and other percussive sources.
The plugin’s attack and release controls are program-dependent, meaning they adapt to the input signal, contributing to the natural and musical quality often associated with optical compression. The sidechain section includes a high-pass filter adjustable from 20 Hz to 500 Hz, enabling users to prevent low-frequency content from triggering excessive compression. Additionally, the LDC2 supports external sidechain input, expanding its utility in complex mixing scenarios.
The preamp section is another standout feature, offering drive and output controls to add subtle harmonic distortion to the signal. This can be used to impart analog-style warmth and character, enhancing the plugin’s vintage appeal. The mix knob facilitates easy parallel processing, allowing users to blend the dry and processed signals to taste.
The LDC2 Compander’s zero-latency operation makes it suitable for both tracking and mixing applications, as well as live performances. Its straightforward interface, with large VU meters for input, output, and gain reduction, provides clear visual feedback and contributes to an efficient workflow. When compared to similar plugins, the LDC2 Compander stands out for its combination of optical compression and expansion in a single unit. While many plugins emulate specific hardware units like the LA-2A or LA-3A, the LDC2 offers a broader palette of sounds through its multiple optical circuit models. This versatility allows it to cover ground similar to plugins like the Waves CLA-2A or Universal Audio LA-2A Collection, but with the added flexibility of choosing between different optical characteristics. The inclusion of an expander section is relatively unique among optical compressor emulations, setting it apart from many competitors. However, plugins like the Softube Tube-Tech CL 1B offer variable ratio controls, which the LDC2 lacks. The preamp section of the LDC2 is comparable to features found in some channel strip plugins, adding value beyond mere dynamics processing.
This plugin is best for:
• Engineers seeking a versatile optical compressor with vintage flavor
• Producers looking to add warmth and character to digital recordings
• Live sound engineers requiring zero-latency compression
• Users who want the flexibility of multiple optical compression flavors in one plugin
• Those needing both compression and expansion in a single unit
Audiority LDC2 Compander is a powerful and versatile dynamics processor that successfully captures the essence of vintage optical compressors while offering modern features and flexibility. Its 17 optical circuit models provide a wide range of compression and expansion characteristics, allowing users to find the perfect flavor for their source material. The intuitive interface and large VU meters make it easy to use, even for those new to optical compression. The addition of a preamp section for harmonic coloration and a flexible sidechain with high-pass filter further expand its utility in both mixing and mastering scenarios. While the fixed ratios may be limiting for some users, the overall sound quality and versatility of the LDC2 Compander make it a strong contender in the crowded field of compressor plugins. Its zero-latency operation and unique expansion capabilities set it apart from many competitors, making it a valuable tool for a wide range of audio applications, from subtle dynamics control to more aggressive compression effects. Whether used for tracking, mixing, or mastering, the LDC2 Compander offers a blend of vintage warmth and modern convenience that many users will find appealing.