Harrison Consoles FasTrack plugin is a comprehensive channel strip designed for low-latency audio processing in live and studio environments. This versatile tool combines essential audio processing modules, including dynamics control, equalization, and effects, into a single, user-friendly interface. FasTrack is built to enhance the sound quality of live vocals, spoken word, and various instruments, making it suitable for podcasting, live streaming, studio recording, stage performances, and broadcasting. The plugin features Harrison’s legendary 32C EQ, known for its warm and rich sound, alongside a suite of other processing tools. These include a noise gate, de-esser, compressor, filters, chorus, delay, and reverb. FasTrack’s interface is designed for quick and intuitive operation, with a flexible routing system that allows users to customize the signal flow to their specific needs. The plugin also comes with 14 expertly curated presets, providing a solid starting point for both novice and experienced users.
Pros:
• Ultra-low latency performance ideal for live applications
• Comprehensive suite of processing tools in a single plugin
• Flexible signal routing with drag-and-drop functionality
• Includes the renowned Harrison 32C EQ
Cons:
• Relatively high price point compared to some competing channel strips
FasTrack’s feature set is extensive, providing users with a complete toolkit for shaping and enhancing audio signals. The plugin’s core components include dynamics processing, equalization, filtering, and effects. The dynamics section starts with a noise gate, which helps eliminate unwanted background noise by attenuating signals below a specified threshold. This is particularly useful for cleaning up live vocal performances or reducing ambient noise in podcast recordings. The gate features a simple threshold control and an optional expander mode for more subtle noise reduction.
Next in the signal chain is the de-esser, which utilizes Harrison’s proprietary algorithm to tame harsh sibilance in vocal recordings. This dual-band compressor targets both high and mid-frequency ranges, allowing for precise control over problematic frequencies. Users can adjust the width and depth of the compression bands using intuitive graphical controls, while a real-time analyzer provides visual feedback of the signal’s spectral content.
The compressor module offers straightforward control over dynamics, with adjustable ratio, attack, release, and makeup gain parameters. A single slider allows users to quickly dial in the desired amount of compression, making it easy to achieve consistent levels even in fast-paced live situations.
At the heart of FasTrack is Harrison’s acclaimed 32C equalizer. This four-band parametric EQ provides high and low shelving filters, two fully parametric midrange bands, and additional high-pass and low-pass filters. The EQ section also includes a unique “bump” feature, which adds a subtle boost at the corner frequency of the high-pass filter, helping to maintain fullness in the low end when cutting unwanted sub-frequencies.
The effects section of FasTrack includes chorus, delay, and reverb processors. These effects can be used to add depth, space, and movement to dry signals. The chorus effect can create subtle doubling or more extreme modulation effects, while the delay and reverb modules offer essential time-based processing for adding ambience and dimension to vocals or instruments.
One of FasTrack’s standout features is its flexible routing system. Users can drag and drop the various processing modules to create custom signal chains, allowing for creative sound design and problem-solving. This flexibility is particularly valuable in live situations where unconventional processing order might be necessary to achieve the desired sound.
The plugin also includes input and output level controls, allowing users to optimize gain staging and drive the plugin’s internal processing for different tonal characteristics. A master bypass switch enables quick A/B comparisons between processed and unprocessed signals.
FasTrack’s user interface is designed for efficiency and ease of use, with clear visual feedback and intuitive controls. The layout is logical and uncluttered, making it easy to navigate even in high-pressure live situations. The inclusion of 14 factory presets provides excellent starting points for various sources and styles, while six user preset slots allow for quick recall of custom settings.
When compared to other channel strip plugins on the market, FasTrack stands out for its focus on low-latency performance and live applications. While many channel strips are primarily designed for studio use, FasTrack’s ultra-low latency processing makes it particularly well-suited for live sound reinforcement, broadcasting, and real-time recording scenarios. In terms of features, FasTrack offers a comparable set of tools to other high-end channel strips like the Waves CLA MixHub or the SSL Channel Strip. However, FasTrack’s inclusion of the Harrison 32C EQ gives it a unique sonic character that may appeal to users seeking a warmer, more analog-like sound. FasTrack’s flexible routing capabilities set it apart from many competitors, offering a level of customization that is not always available in other channel strip plugins. This feature allows users to create complex processing chains that would typically require multiple plugins, potentially simplifying workflows and reducing CPU load.
This plugin is best for:
• Live sound engineers seeking a low-latency, all-in-one processing solution
• Podcasters and broadcasters who need quick, effective vocal processing
• Studio engineers looking for a versatile channel strip with a warm, analog-inspired sound
• Musicians and producers who require flexible signal processing for live streaming or recording
Harrison Consoles FasTrack plugin offers a powerful and versatile solution for audio processing across a wide range of applications. Its combination of essential dynamics tools, the renowned 32C EQ, and creative effects in a single, low-latency package makes it a valuable tool for both live and studio environments. The plugin’s intuitive interface and flexible routing options allow for quick and creative sound shaping, while the inclusion of well-designed presets provides an excellent starting point for users of all experience levels. FasTrack’s strengths lie in its ultra-low latency performance and comprehensive feature set, making it particularly well-suited for live sound reinforcement, broadcasting, and real-time recording scenarios. The plugin’s ability to handle a wide range of processing tasks efficiently can potentially streamline workflows and reduce the need for multiple plugins in a signal chain. FasTrack’s unique combination of features and performance characteristics make it a compelling option for audio professionals who demand high-quality, low-latency processing in demanding environments. For those working in live sound, broadcast, or fast-paced studio situations, FasTrack offers a powerful, all-in-one solution that can help achieve professional-quality results quickly and efficiently.