McDSP MC2000 Multi-Band Compressor Native v7 is a high-end digital audio plugin designed to emulate the sounds of both vintage and modern compressors. It offers users complete control over multi-band dynamic compression, making it a versatile tool for mixing and mastering applications. The MC2000 actually comprises three separate plugins: MC202 (two-band compression), MC303 (three-band compression), and MC404 (four-band compression), providing flexibility for various compression needs. This plugin stands out with its non-standard Knee and BITE (Bi-Directional Intelligent Transient Enhancement) controls, allowing for unique articulation of compression characteristics. The MC2000 also features multiple peak detection circuit types, giving users the flexibility previously only achievable by owning several different compression units. With its intuitive interface and powerful features, the MC2000 is optimized for both Apple silicon and the latest Intel processors, ensuring efficient performance across different systems.
Pros:
• Versatile multi-band compression with two, three, and four-band options
• Unique BITE and Knee controls for precise compression shaping
• Efficient CPU usage, allowing multiple instances on a single chip
• Zero latency processing for real-time performance
• Optimized for both Apple silicon and Intel processors
Cons:
• Steep learning curve for users new to multi-band compression
• Higher price point compared to some competing multi-band compressors
The MC2000 Multi-Band Compressor v7 boasts an impressive array of features that cater to the needs of professional audio engineers and producers. At its core, the plugin offers precise control over the compression of individual frequency bands, allowing users to shape the dynamics of their audio with surgical precision. The crossover control is a key element of this functionality, enabling users to define the frequency ranges for each band either through text displays or directly on the crossover display graph.
MC2000 is the BITE control is an innovative parameter allows fast signal changes (transients) to pass through the compressor while maintaining the overall compression amount. This capability is particularly useful for preserving the punch and impact of drums or other percussive elements in a mix while still achieving desired compression on sustained sounds.
The plugin’s band linking feature is another powerful tool, facilitating quick control setup and expedited edits. This feature also opens up new creative compression techniques by allowing users to link the behavior of different frequency bands. The compression curve modeling further enhances the plugin’s versatility, enabling users to emulate the characteristics of various classic and modern compressors.
The MC2000’s multiple peak detection circuits provide flexibility in how the compressor responds to incoming audio. This feature allows users to tailor the compressor’s behavior to suit different source materials or achieve specific sonic goals. The plugin also offers double precision processing, ensuring high-quality audio output even when applying significant amounts of compression.
Visually, the MC2000 provides comprehensive metering and display options. The compression display graph allows users to visualize the gain reduction trajectory of each band simultaneously, while individual meters monitor gain reduction, input, and output for each band. This visual feedback is crucial for making informed decisions during the compression process. The plugin’s zero latency processing is a significant advantage for live performances or when tracking. It allows real-time monitoring without the delay often associated with digital processing. Additionally, the MC2000 comes with a collection of presets from award-winning mix engineers, providing users with professional starting points for various applications.
When compared to similar plugins, the MC2000 holds its own against well-known competitors like the Waves C4. While both are multi-band compressors, the MC2000 is noted for being less CPU-intensive, allowing users to run multiple instances on a single DSP chip. This efficiency is particularly beneficial in large, complex mixing sessions where CPU resources can be at a premium. The MC2000’s unique BITE and Knee controls set it apart from many other multi-band compressors, offering more nuanced shaping of compression characteristics. However, some users have reported that the MC2000 can sometimes affect the audio in unexpected ways, requiring careful adjustment to achieve desired results. In terms of sound quality, the MC2000 is generally praised for its clean and transparent compression. Its ability to emulate both vintage and modern compressor sounds gives it an edge in versatility over some more specialized multi-band compressors. However, like any powerful tool, it requires a good understanding of compression principles and careful use to avoid over-processing.
This plugin is best for:
• Professional mixing and mastering engineers seeking precise dynamic control
• Producers working with complex arrangements requiring frequency-specific compression
• Live sound engineers needing efficient, low-latency multi-band compression
• Audio post-production professionals working on film, TV, or game audio
• Musicians and producers looking to emulate vintage and modern compressor sounds in-the-box
McDSP MC2000 Multi-Band Compressor v7 is a powerful and versatile plugin that offers professional-grade multi-band compression capabilities. Its unique features like the BITE control and flexible knee settings provide users with extensive control over their audio’s dynamics. The plugin’s efficiency and zero-latency processing make it suitable for both studio and live applications. While it may have a steeper learning curve for novice users, the MC2000 rewards those who master its capabilities with precise and transparent compression across multiple frequency bands. Its ability to emulate various compressor types and its optimization for modern processors make it a valuable tool in any audio professional’s plugin arsenal. Despite its higher price point, the MC2000’s versatility and sound quality justify the investment for those serious about achieving top-notch dynamic control in their mixes.