A field-effect transistor is used in the circuit of a FET compressor, an analog dynamic effect plugin, to reduce gain. These compressors are faster acting and have a better transient response than other varieties, which makes them perfect for percussive sounds like drums. Its attack and release times are quite quick in comparison to other analog-type compressors like VariMu, VCA, and Opto, which are the most notable distinctions. FET compressors don’t compress linearly like digital compressors do, and they also introduce harmonic distortion.
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FET Compressor MK II
The FET Compressor MK II by Softube is a digital compressor plugin that emulates the classic 1176 FET compressor, known for its fast attack times and unique sound. It features a FET gain reduction stage, Class A solid-state amplifiers, and input and output transformers, which contribute to its aggressive sound and desirable distortion. The plugin also includes two different drives, FET and transformer, which can be used together or separately, providing flexibility in shaping the sound.
The plugin offers a Dry/Wet mix control, allowing for parallel compression, a technique that blends the processed and unprocessed signals to maintain dynamic range while still achieving a compressed sound. This feature enhances the versatility of the plugin, making it suitable for a variety of applications. The FET Compressor MK II is part of Softube’s Icons: Compressor Collection, which also includes optical and VCA compressor plugins. It is noted for its transformer overdrive stage, which adds a subtle warming effect to the sound, reminiscent of vacuum tube circuitry. This feature, along with the plugin’s ability to emulate the fast response of the original 1176 compressor, sets it apart from other compressor plugins on the market.
This is the Best FET Compressor Plugin in 2024.
Universal Audio 1176 Classic Limiter Collection
The UAD 1176 Collection by Universal Audio is a collection of digital compressor plugins that emulate the classic 1176 FET compressor, a piece of hardware renowned for its fast attack times and distinctive sound. This collection is celebrated for its ability to authentically replicate the sound of the original unit, providing users with a versatile tool that can be used on a wide array of audio material, including vocals, drums, and bass.
The collection stands out for its detailed sound and the unique vibrancy it brings to audio tracks. It is often considered essential for mixing, as users find it straightforward to dial in the right settings to achieve professional-sounding tracks with minimal effort. The ease of use is further complemented by the educational resources provided by Universal Audio, which guide users in maximizing the potential of the plugins.
Included in the collection are different versions of the 1176 compressor, each offering its own sonic flavor. These variations are said to surpass the original UAD 1176 plugin in sound quality, with the Rev A ‘BlueStripe’ and Rev E ‘Blackface’ models being particularly noted for their accurate emulation of the original hardware. When compared to the original hardware 1176 compressor, the plugins receive favorable reviews for delivering a clear and punchy sound that closely mirrors the hardware. However, it’s worth noting that some users have experienced that the plugins can potentially smear transients if not used judiciously.
UAD 1176 Collection is highly recommended for its sound quality, versatility, and user-friendliness. It is often described as a must-have for any music producer or audio engineer looking to incorporate the classic sound of the 1176 into their digital workflow.
Pulsar Audio Pulsar 1178
Pulsar 1178 is a digital compressor plugin that emulates the classic 1178 FET compressor, known for its fast attack times and unique sound. This plugin is celebrated for its ability to closely replicate the sound and character of the original analog hardware. It features input and output level controls, attack and release controls, and a side-chain EQ, which contribute to its aggressive sound and desirable distortion. The plugin also includes an optional saturation stage for warmth and character, reminiscent of vacuum tube circuitry. The plugin offers a Dry/Wet mix control, allowing for parallel compression, a technique that blends the processed and unprocessed signals to maintain dynamic range while still achieving a compressed sound. This feature enhances the versatility of the plugin, making it suitable for a variety of applications, including bus compression duties, which is not commonly found with a 1176.
Pulsar 1178 stands out from other FET compressor plugins due to its extensive side-chain facility, which features a four-band EQ, a frequency analyzer, and a side-chain solo function. This allows for much more precise control over the compression than the usual high-pass filters, making it a versatile tool for shaping the sound. When compared to the original hardware 1178 compressor, the plugin receives favorable reviews for delivering a clear and punchy sound that closely mirrors the hardware. However, it’s worth noting that some users have experienced that the plugins can potentially smear transients if not used judiciously.
This is the Best FET Compressor VST Plugin in 2024.
Arturia Comp FET-76
Arturia Comp FET-76 is a digital compressor plugin that emulates the classic 1176 FET compressor, known for its fast attack times and unique sound. It is often described as bright, present, and energetic, and is particularly effective for handling the dynamic intricacies of vocals, especially for aggressive genres like rap or metal. It’s also a versatile tool, capable of everything from subtle leveling to saturated parallel compression.
The plugin features original electronic path modeling, including FET, transformers, and transistors, which contribute to its authentic sound. It also offers a range of user-friendly controls, including input and output level controls, attack and release controls, and a side-chain function. One of the standout features of the FET-76 is its ability to provide transparent compression, preserving the original character of the audio while controlling its dynamics. This makes it a valuable tool for a variety of applications, from individual track processing to bus compression duties.
Compared to other compressor types, such as tube compressors, optical compressor plugins, and VCA compressors, the FET-76 stands out for its unique sound and versatility. While tube compressors are known for their warm, smooth sound, and optical compressors for their gentle, musical compression, the FET-76 offers a more aggressive, punchy character that can add energy and presence to a mix. In terms of extra features, the FET-76 includes a Dry/Wet mix control, allowing for parallel compression, a technique that blends the processed and unprocessed signals to maintain dynamic range while still achieving a compressed sound. This feature enhances the versatility of the plugin, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
Softube Drawmer 1973 Multi-Band Compressor
The Softube Drawmer 1973 Multi-Band Compressor is a digital compressor plugin that emulates the Drawmer 1973 hardware, a renowned three-band, stereo FET compressor. It is often described as having a fantastic sound, being smooth, detailed, clean, and open, yet also showing some very interesting character. It is particularly effective for handling the dynamic intricacies of various audio signals, from vocals to instruments, and is capable of everything from subtle leveling to saturated parallel compression.
The plugin features original electronic path modeling, including FET, transformers, and integrated circuits, which contribute to its authentic sound. It also offers a range of user-friendly controls, including input and output level controls, attack and release controls, and a side-chain function. Each of the three bands has its own set of compression controls, and the crossover frequencies of the band-split filters can also be adjusted by the user. One of the standout features of the Drawmer 1973 is its ability to provide a wide compression range, preserving the original character of the audio while controlling its dynamics. This makes it a valuable tool for a variety of applications, from individual track processing to bus compression duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a FET Compressor?
A FET compressor uses a Field Effect Transistor to control the amount of gain applied to the signal. This allows the compressor to reduce the dynamic range of the audio signal and add both punch and color to a sound.
How does a FET Compressor work?
The current flowing through the transistor in a FET compressor is controlled by the voltage applied between the gate and the source of the transistor. This allows the compressor to quickly respond to changes in the input signal, making it ideal for applications that require fast attack times.
How does a FET Compressor compare to other types of compressors?
FET compressors are known for their fast attack times and unique tonal characteristics. They are more colorful and aggressive compared to other types of compressors like VCA and Opto compressors.
Can I use a FET Compressor for mastering?
Yes, FET compressors can be used for mastering. However, the choice of compressor for mastering depends on the specific requirements of the track and the desired sound.
How do I use a FET Compressor?
To use a FET compressor, you need to adjust the threshold, ratio, attack, and release settings to achieve the desired amount of compression. The specific settings will depend on the material you are working with and the sound you are aiming for.