Leapwing Audio Joe Chiccarelli is an innovative audio processing plugin that captures the signature sound of multi-Grammy award-winning producer and engineer Joe Chiccarelli. This versatile tool offers 11 distinct profiles for various instruments and sources, including kick, snare, toms, drum overhead, drum room, bass DI, bass amp, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, electric piano, and lead vocal. Each profile features a set of carefully tuned parameters controlling drive, EQs, compression, parallel compression, and effects, all designed to emulate Chiccarelli’s unique sound and workflow. The plugin’s interface is sleek and user-friendly, with a dark blue GUI that adapts to each selected profile, presenting the most relevant controls upfront while allowing access to more detailed adjustments with a single click. Leapwing Audio worked closely with Joe Chiccarelli to analyze his preferred tools and techniques, resulting in a plugin that serves as an excellent starting point for crafting professional, album-quality sounds in both recording and mixing scenarios.
Pros:
• Offers 11 distinct, well-crafted instrument profiles based on Joe Chiccarelli’s signature sound
• Intuitive interface with profile-specific layouts for quick and easy use
• High-quality emulations of sought-after hardware units, including API and Pultec EQs, Neve preamps, and classic compressors
Cons:
• Relatively high price point compared to some competing channel strip plugins
Leapwing Audio Joe Chiccarelli plugin boasts an impressive array of features that cater to various aspects of the recording and mixing process. At its core are the 11 instrument profiles, each meticulously crafted to emulate Joe Chiccarelli’s approach to processing different sound sources. These profiles serve as excellent starting points for achieving professional-grade sounds quickly and efficiently.
The plugin’s EQ section draws inspiration from several classic hardware units. Users can access models based on the API 1550, API 560, and Pultec EQP-1A, allowing for precise tonal shaping with the character of these renowned equalizers. The Drive parameter, available in most profiles, offers a choice between emulations of a Neve 1073 preamp stage, an API console preamp, or a blend of both, adding warmth and harmonic richness to the signal.
Compression options are equally impressive, with the Sustain parameter emulating a Zener Limiter for added character and warmth. The Power parameter models an aggressively set 1176 compressor, available in both standard and parallel configurations for most drum profiles and the lead vocal. Additionally, the plugin incorporates models of different optical compressors, including the Neve 33609 and LA2A or LA3A in Optical Fast Mode, providing users with a wide range of compression flavors.
For saturation, the Joe Chiccarelli plugin includes a parallel circuit reminiscent of an Overstayer Saturator, allowing users to add subtle harmonic distortion to their tracks. Most profiles also feature three different reverb settings, which blend emulations of the AMS DMX 15-80 and RMS 16 units, based on Chiccarelli’s preferred settings.
The plugin’s interface is designed for optimal workflow, with the most commonly used controls readily available on the main screen. More advanced parameters are easily accessible with a single click, allowing users to fine-tune their sound without cluttering the primary interface. The resizable Retina display ensures clear visibility across various monitor sizes and resolutions.
Leapwing Audio has also prioritized performance, with low-latency processing that makes the plugin suitable for use during recording sessions. The Joe Chiccarelli plugin supports sample rates up to 384kHz (DXD) and is available in 64-bit VST3, AAX, and AU formats for both macOS and Windows systems.
When comparing the Leapwing Audio Joe Chiccarelli plugin to similar products on the market, it stands out for its focus on emulating a specific engineer’s workflow and sound. While many channel strip plugins offer emulations of classic hardware, few provide such a comprehensive approach to capturing the essence of a renowned producer’s techniques. The closest competitors might be signature plugins from other high-profile engineers, such as the Waves Abbey Road TG Mastering Chain or the Universal Audio Neve Preamp & EQ Collection. However, the Joe Chiccarelli plugin differentiates itself by offering a wider range of instrument-specific profiles and a more holistic approach to processing. Unlike some competitors that focus solely on EQ and compression, this plugin incorporates additional elements like reverb and saturation, providing a more complete solution for achieving polished, professional sounds. The attention to detail in modeling specific hardware units and Chiccarelli’s preferred settings also sets it apart from more generic channel strip plugins.
This plugin is best for:
• Engineers and producers seeking to emulate Joe Chiccarelli’s signature sound
• Recording artists looking for professional-grade processing during tracking sessions
• Mixing engineers who want quick access to well-crafted starting points for various instruments
• Home studio owners aiming to achieve commercial-quality results without extensive outboard gear
Leapwing Audio Joe Chiccarelli plugin is a powerful and versatile tool that brings the expertise of a multi-Grammy winning producer to your digital audio workstation. Its combination of meticulously crafted instrument profiles, high-quality emulations of classic hardware, and intuitive interface make it an excellent choice for both seasoned professionals and aspiring engineers. While the price point may be a consideration for some users, the plugin’s ability to quickly achieve polished, album-quality sounds across a wide range of instruments justifies the investment for many. The attention to detail in capturing Joe Chiccarelli’s signature sound and workflow sets this plugin apart from more generic channel strips, offering users a unique opportunity to tap into the techniques of a renowned industry professional. Whether used for recording, mixing, or both, the Joe Chiccarelli plugin provides a comprehensive solution for elevating the quality of audio productions.