FabFilter Saturn 2 is a versatile multiband distortion and saturation plugin that offers a wide range of sound-shaping possibilities. This powerful tool allows users to add warmth, harmonics, and character to their audio tracks with precision and flexibility. Saturn 2 features 28 different distortion styles, from subtle tube saturation to heavy guitar amp emulations and creative bit-crushing effects. The plugin’s multiband architecture enables up to 6 bands of processing, each with its own drive, mix, feedback, dynamics, tone, and level controls. Saturn 2 boasts a redesigned interface with improved modulation visualization, making it easier for users to understand and manipulate complex modulation setups. The plugin also introduces new subtle saturation options and linear phase processing, making it suitable for both mixing and mastering applications. With its extensive modulation options, including XLFOs, envelope generators, and MIDI sources, Saturn 2 provides users with virtually limitless creative possibilities for sound design and audio enhancement.
Pros:
• Extensive range of high-quality distortion and saturation styles
• Powerful multiband processing with up to 6 bands
• Intuitive interface with real-time modulation visualization
• Flexible modulation system with drag-and-drop functionality
• High-quality oversampling options for pristine audio processing
Cons:
• Steep learning curve due to the plugin’s complexity and vast feature set
• Can be CPU-intensive, especially when using multiple bands and high-quality modes
FabFilter Saturn 2 offers an impressive array of features that cater to a wide range of audio processing needs. The plugin’s 28 distortion styles cover a broad spectrum of tonal characteristics, from subtle warming effects to extreme sound mangling. Users can choose from various tube, tape, and transformer emulations, as well as guitar amp models and creative FX distortions. The multiband architecture allows for precise frequency-dependent processing, with adjustable crossover slopes ranging from 6 to 48 dB/octave.
One of Saturn 2’s standout features is its comprehensive modulation system. The plugin provides 16-step XLFOs, envelope generators, envelope followers, XY controllers, and MIDI sources, all of which can be easily assigned to various parameters using a drag-and-drop interface. The new modulation visualization feature adds color-coded indicators to controls and bands, making it easy to see which parameters are being modulated in real-time.
Saturn 2 introduces several new features aimed at enhancing its usability and sound quality. The redesigned interface offers four size options and a full-screen mode, adapting to various workspace configurations. The new “Subtle” versions of Tape, Tube, and Saturation styles provide options for gentle warming effects, while the additional guitar amp models (British Rock, British Pop, American Tweed, and American Plexi) expand the plugin’s tonal palette. For mastering applications, Saturn 2 now offers linear phase processing and a “Superb” high-quality mode with 32x oversampling, ensuring maximum coherence and minimal aliasing. The plugin also includes mid/side processing capabilities, allowing for precise stereo field manipulation.
Saturn 2’s modulation system has been significantly enhanced, with new features such as curved envelope stages, transient detection in envelope followers, and the ability to route discrete band inputs to envelope sources. The XLFO now supports legato MIDI triggering and can target frequency offset and balance parameters. The plugin’s user interface has been optimized for ease of use, with a darker color scheme that reduces eye strain during extended sessions. The modulation matrix now supports up to 50 slots, and users can customize names for individual modulation sources, improving workflow efficiency.
When compared to similar plugins, FabFilter Saturn 2 stands out for its combination of high-quality sound, extensive feature set, and intuitive interface. While plugins like Soundtoys Decapitator and iZotope Trash 2 offer excellent distortion and saturation options, they lack the multiband capabilities and advanced modulation system found in Saturn 2. Waves’ Berzerk Distortion provides similar creative possibilities but with a different approach to sound design. Saturn 2’s closest competitor might be Eventide’s Crushstation 2, which offers comparable multiband processing and modulation options, but Saturn 2 edges it out in terms of interface design and overall flexibility.
This plugin is best for:
• Sound designers seeking a versatile tool for creative distortion effects
• Mix engineers looking to add character and warmth to individual tracks or busses
• Mastering engineers requiring subtle saturation with precise control
• Electronic music producers wanting to create complex, evolving textures
• Guitar and bass players seeking high-quality amp simulations in a plugin format
FabFilter Saturn 2 is a powerful and versatile distortion and saturation plugin that offers an impressive range of sound-shaping possibilities. Its extensive collection of distortion styles, coupled with the flexible multiband architecture, allows users to achieve anything from subtle warming effects to extreme sound mangling. The redesigned interface and improved modulation visualization make it easier for users to navigate complex setups, while the new subtle saturation options and linear phase processing extend its usefulness in mastering scenarios. Despite its steep learning curve and potential CPU demands, Saturn 2’s high-quality sound and vast feature set make it a valuable tool for a wide range of audio professionals and enthusiasts. Whether used for adding character to individual tracks, designing unique sound effects, or providing the finishing touch in a mastering chain, FabFilter Saturn 2 proves to be a highly capable and sonically pleasing plugin that can elevate the quality of any audio production.