PSP Audioware PSP Saturator is a high-quality saturation plugin designed to emulate the warmth and character of analog devices such as tape recorders and valve circuits. It achieves this by adding harmonics, applying dedicated filtering, and implementing dynamic processing. The plugin offers three distinct algorithms and eight different shape modes, providing users with a wide range of tonal options from subtle enhancement to extreme audio transformation. PSP Saturator’s interface is clean and intuitive, featuring separate low and high band processing engines for precise control over the warming effects. The plugin also includes a parallel mix option with intelligent phase alignment, multiple metering modes for signal analysis, and an additional control panel for fine-tuning various saturation parameters. With its low internal latency of 6 samples and optional “FAT” quad-sampling for pristine saturation quality, PSP Saturator aims to deliver professional-grade results while maintaining efficient performance.
Pros:
• Versatile saturation options with eight different shapes and three signal sculpting engines
• High-quality sound processing with optional FAT quad-sampling for reduced aliasing
• Intuitive interface with comprehensive metering and control options
• Low CPU usage and minimal latency
• Extensive preset library designed by top engineers and producers
Cons:
• Potential for overuse, leading to muddy or harsh results if not applied judiciously
• Learning curve for users unfamiliar with advanced saturation techniques
PSP Saturator’s feature set is comprehensive and well-thought-out, catering to both novice users and experienced audio professionals. The plugin’s three signal sculpting engines (low, high, and overall saturation) allow for precise control over the frequency ranges affected by the saturation process. This level of control enables users to target specific areas of the audio spectrum, enhancing warmth in the low end while maintaining clarity in the highs, or vice versa.
The eight different saturation shapes offer a variety of tonal flavors, ranging from subtle tube-like warmth to more aggressive tape-style distortion. These shapes can be further refined using the adjustable Low and High band processing engines, allowing for tailored warming effects that suit the source material and desired outcome.
One of the standout features of PSP Saturator is its parallel mix option with internal intelligent phase alignment. This allows users to blend the saturated signal with the dry signal, creating a more natural and balanced effect. The intelligent phase alignment ensures that the parallel processing doesn’t introduce unwanted phase issues, maintaining the integrity of the original sound while adding the desired character.
The plugin’s multiple metering modes provide valuable visual feedback for signal analysis, helping users make informed decisions about their saturation settings. The additional control panel for fine-tuning various saturation parameters and smoothing offers even more depth for those who want to delve into the nuances of the saturation process.
PSP Saturator’s three output modes (off, sat, lim) add another layer of flexibility to the plugin’s functionality. Users can shape the final output stage to their liking, whether they prefer a clean output, saturated coloration, or a limited signal for added punch and consistency.
The optional “FAT” quad-sampling feature is a significant addition, as it helps reduce aliasing and maintain pristine saturation quality. This is particularly important when working with complex harmonic content, as it ensures that the saturation process doesn’t introduce unwanted artifacts or distortion. With its very low internal latency of 6 samples, PSP Saturator is well-suited for real-time processing during recording or mixing sessions. This low latency, combined with its relatively light CPU usage, makes it a practical choice for producers and engineers working on resource-intensive projects.
The inclusion of 200 presets designed by top engineers and producers provides an excellent starting point for users, offering inspiration and practical applications across various genres and mixing scenarios.
When compared to similar plugins, PSP Saturator stands out for its combination of high-quality processing and user-friendly interface. While plugins like FabFilter Saturn 2 offer more modulation options and Softube Saturator X provides specific hardware emulations, PSP Saturator strikes a balance between versatility and ease of use. It offers more shaping options than simpler saturation plugins like Soundtoys Decapitator, but remains more focused and CPU-efficient than all-in-one channel strip plugins that include saturation as one of many features. Compared to PSP’s own VintageWarmer, PSP Saturator is more specialized in its approach to saturation, offering greater control over the harmonic content and frequency-specific processing. While VintageWarmer combines saturation with multi-band dynamics processing, PSP Saturator focuses solely on providing high-quality, flexible saturation options.
This plugin is best for:
• Mix engineers seeking to add analog-style warmth and character to digital recordings
• Producers looking for a versatile saturation tool to enhance individual tracks or full mixes
• Sound designers requiring a wide range of saturation flavors for creative sound shaping
• Mastering engineers needing subtle harmonic enhancement without compromising clarity
PSP Saturator is a powerful and versatile saturation plugin that offers a wide range of tonal options and precise control over the saturation process. Its combination of high-quality algorithms, intuitive interface, and efficient performance make it a valuable tool for audio professionals across various disciplines. The plugin’s ability to provide subtle warming effects as well as more aggressive distortion allows it to adapt to a variety of mixing and sound design scenarios. While it may require some experimentation to fully grasp its potential, the extensive preset library and comprehensive feature set provide an excellent foundation for users to explore and refine their saturation techniques. PSP Saturator’s attention to detail, such as the FAT quad-sampling and intelligent phase alignment, demonstrates PSP Audioware’s commitment to delivering professional-grade tools that can stand up to the demands of modern audio production. Whether used for adding subtle analog-style warmth to a mix or completely transforming a sound source, PSP Saturator proves to be a capable and reliable choice for those seeking high-quality saturation processing.