PSP Audioware PSP FETpressor is a digital emulation of a classic FET (Field Effect Transistor) feedback-type compressor, designed to provide accurate and nearly instantaneous compression with a distinctive character. Inspired by the iconic UREI/Universal Audio 1176 Limiting Amplifier, this plugin aims to capture the essence of 1970s-style FET compression while offering modern features and flexibility. The FETpressor is part of PSP Audioware’s series of Zero Latency Processing plugins, making it suitable for live monitoring, broadcast production, and tracking scenarios. Its user interface mimics the look of vintage hardware, featuring a blackface-style rack mount design with familiar knobs and controls. The plugin goes beyond mere emulation by incorporating additional parameters and functions, such as a dry signal blend for parallel compression and output transformer emulations. These enhancements allow the FETpressor to maintain its vintage charm while catering to contemporary production needs across various genres and applications.
Pros:
• Accurate emulation of classic FET compression with added modern features
• Zero latency processing for live monitoring and tracking
• Versatile compression characteristics suitable for various sources, including vocals, guitars, bass, and drums
• Parallel compression capability with dry signal blend control
• Subtle character addition through makeup amplifier and output transformer emulations
Cons:
• Lacks the “all buttons in” mode found on the original hardware
• Limited to 16:1 maximum compression ratio
The PSP FETpressor boasts an array of features that combine vintage charm with modern functionality. At its core, the plugin utilizes a FET feedback compression circuit, which provides the characteristic fast attack and release times associated with classic FET compressors. The attack time ranges from an impressively quick 0.1 ms to 10 ms, while the release time spans from 10 ms to 1000 ms. These extended ranges offer more flexibility than the original hardware, particularly useful for parallel compression setups.
The compression ratio is controlled via a continuously variable knob rather than the traditional radio buttons, allowing for smooth transitions between ratios up to 16:1. This design choice enhances the plugin’s versatility for general mixing tasks. The FETpressor also incorporates an internal side-chain high-pass filter, which helps control the amount of low-frequency pumping – a crucial feature for maintaining a balanced sound when compressing full mixes or bass-heavy material.
Dry signal blend control, enabling easy parallel compression without the need for complex routing. This allows users to dial in the perfect balance between compressed and uncompressed signals, adding depth and character to the source material. The plugin also includes makeup amplifier and output transformer emulations, which impart subtle analog-like qualities to the signal even when minimal compression is applied.
FETpressor’s user interface is designed to be intuitive and reminiscent of classic hardware. A large, centrally placed VU meter displays gain reduction, providing clear visual feedback during operation. The plugin includes 17 factory presets, offering solid starting points for various mixing scenarios and helping users unfamiliar with FET compression to achieve desirable results quickly.
PSP Audioware has implemented a threshold compensation algorithm in the FETpressor, which helps maintain a consistent compression level of about -6 dB. This feature contributes to the plugin’s program-dependent behavior, mimicking the nuanced response of analog hardware. However, users should be aware that sudden ratio adjustments may introduce saturation effects.
The FETpressor supports high sample rates up to 400 kHz, ensuring compatibility with modern high-resolution audio workflows. It’s available in VST, AU, and AAX formats, catering to a wide range of digital audio workstations and production environments. In terms of CPU usage, the FETpressor is relatively efficient, making it suitable for use across multiple instances in a mix. Its zero-latency processing sets it apart from some other high-quality compressor emulations that introduce noticeable latency, making the FETpressor particularly valuable for tracking and live applications.
When comparing the PSP FETpressor to similar plugins, it holds its own against both emulations of specific hardware units and more generic FET-style compressors. Unlike some competitors that aim for exact recreations of the UREI/UA 1176, the FETpressor takes a slightly different approach by incorporating additional features and controls. This makes it more versatile in some respects, but purists might miss certain characteristics of the original hardware, such as the famous “all buttons in” mode. The FETpressor’s sound quality is generally praised for its ability to impart a vintage character without being overly colored. Its high-end response is described as slightly sharper than some other FET emulations, which can be beneficial for adding presence to sources like vocals and drums. The saturation characteristics are subtler compared to some competitors, offering a more transparent option for those who prefer a cleaner sound while still retaining analog-like qualities.
This plugin is best for:
• Engineers and producers seeking a versatile FET-style compressor with modern features
• Tracking sessions requiring low-latency compression
• Mixing vocals, drums, bass, and other sources that benefit from fast, character-rich compression
• Users who appreciate vintage-inspired interfaces and workflows
• Productions that require subtle analog-like coloration and saturation
PSP FETpressor stands as a compelling option in the crowded field of compressor plugins, offering a blend of vintage inspiration and modern functionality. Its ability to deliver fast, punchy compression with a touch of analog-like character makes it suitable for a wide range of sources and mixing scenarios. The addition of features like parallel compression control and output transformer emulation extends its versatility beyond that of a simple 1176 clone. While it may not perfectly recreate every nuance of the original hardware, the FETpressor’s unique approach results in a tool that can handle everything from subtle dynamics control to more aggressive compression effects. Its zero-latency processing further enhances its value, particularly for live and tracking applications where immediacy is crucial. Despite minor limitations like the absence of an “all buttons in” mode and a maximum ratio of 16:1, the FETpressor’s overall sound quality and usability make it a worthy contender for both vintage enthusiasts and modern producers seeking a characterful yet flexible compression tool.