McDSP 6050 Ultimate Channel Strip Native v7 is a comprehensive channel strip plugin that combines the functionality of multiple audio processing modules into a single, versatile package. Building upon the success of McDSP’s 6020 Ultimate EQ and 6030 Ultimate Compressor, the 6050 offers a wide array of equalizers, compressors, gates, expanders, and saturation modules. With 28 distinct modules available, users can create custom signal chains by selecting and arranging up to three modules in any order. The plugin’s interface is designed to mimic the popular 500-series hardware format, providing a familiar and intuitive workflow for audio engineers and producers. The 6050 Ultimate Channel Strip aims to deliver the sonic characteristics of classic analog hardware while offering the flexibility and convenience of digital processing.
Pros:
• Extensive selection of 28 high-quality processing modules
• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for easy module arrangement
• Low CPU usage and minimal latency
Cons:
• Lack of certain specialized modules like de-essers or transient shapers
Features:
The McDSP 6050 Ultimate Channel Strip Native v7 boasts an impressive array of features that cater to a wide range of audio processing needs. At its core, the plugin offers 28 distinct modules, including 10 equalizers, 10 compressors, 3 gates/expanders, 3 saturators/distortion units, and 2 filters. These modules can be freely arranged within three available slots, allowing users to create custom signal chains tailored to their specific requirements.
The equalizer modules draw inspiration from classic hardware designs, offering a variety of tonal options. From the versatile E404, which emulates McDSP’s classic FilterBank E4 module, to the British E, which captures the essence of vintage console EQs, users have access to a broad palette of equalization tools. The EQ modules generally provide intuitive controls for frequency, gain, and in some cases, bandwidth adjustment.
Compression modules in the 6050 are equally diverse, ranging from emulations of vintage units to modern designs. The C671, for instance, is inspired by the legendary Fairchild 670 compressor, while the iC2 represents an original McDSP design with automatic attack and release times. Each compressor module offers its own unique character and control set, allowing users to achieve anything from subtle dynamic control to aggressive squashing.
The plugin also includes specialized modules for gating and expansion, providing precise control over dynamic range and noise reduction. The saturation modules offer various flavors of harmonic distortion, allowing users to add warmth, grit, or edge to their audio signals. A standout feature of the 6050 is its user interface, which allows for easy auditioning and rearrangement of modules. Users can quickly swap modules in and out, adjusting the signal flow on the fly. This flexibility enables rapid experimentation and fine-tuning of the audio processing chain.
The 6050 also supports side-chain functionality, allowing for advanced compression techniques and creative sound design. Additionally, the plugin employs analog saturation modeling and double precision processing, contributing to its rich, full sound quality. McDSP has optimized the 6050 for low latency operation, making it suitable for both mixing and tracking scenarios. The plugin is available in various formats, including AAX Native, AU, and VST, ensuring compatibility with most major digital audio workstations.
While the plugin excels in many areas, offering a broad range of classic and modern processing flavors, it may not satisfy users looking for ultra-precise surgical tools or highly specialized processors like dedicated de-essers. However, for the vast majority of mixing and production tasks, the 6050 provides more than enough flexibility and sonic options. The plugin’s low CPU usage and minimal latency make it suitable for both studio and live environments, while its support for various plugin formats ensures wide compatibility. The sound quality is impressive, with the analog modeling and double precision processing contributing to a rich, full-bodied tone that can enhance a mix.
When compared to other channel strip plugins on the market, the McDSP 6050 Ultimate Channel Strip Native v7 stands out for its extensive module selection and flexible routing capabilities. While plugins like the Slate Digital Virtual Mix Rack and the Waves CLA MixHub offer similar modular approaches, the 6050 provides a broader range of processing options within a single plugin. The 6050’s focus on emulating classic hardware gives it a similar appeal to plugins like the Universal Audio SSL E-Channel or the Brainworx bx_console series. However, the 6050 offers more flexibility in terms of module selection and arrangement, allowing users to create hybrid signal chains that wouldn’t be possible with a single hardware unit.
In terms of sound quality, the 6050 holds its own against high-end competitors, delivering rich, analog-like tones that can enhance a mix. Its low CPU usage also gives it an edge over some more resource-intensive channel strip plugins. Where the 6050 may fall short compared to some competitors is in its lack of certain specialized modules. For instance, plugins like the FabFilter Pro-Q 3 offer more surgical equalization options, while the 6050’s EQ modules are generally broader in scope.
This plugin is best for:
• Mix engineers seeking a versatile, all-in-one channel strip solution
• Producers who value the sound of classic analog gear but need digital flexibility
• Audio professionals working in post-production who require efficient, low-latency processing
• Musicians and home studio owners looking for a comprehensive toolset to shape their tracks
McDSP 6050 Ultimate Channel Strip Native v7 is a powerful and versatile plugin that offers a wealth of high-quality processing options in a single package. Its extensive module selection, covering everything from EQ and compression to saturation and gating, provides users with a comprehensive toolset for shaping and enhancing audio. The intuitive interface, with its drag-and-drop functionality and easy module auditioning, streamlines the workflow and encourages experimentation. Its combination of versatility, sound quality, and ease of use makes it a strong contender in the crowded field of channel strip plugins. Whether used as a go-to processor for quickly dialing in great sounds or as a creative tool for crafting unique tones, the 6050 is likely to find a place in many producers’ and engineers’ plugin arsenals.