Purple Audio MC77 is a meticulously crafted digital emulation of the iconic UREI/Universal Audio 1176 FET compressor, renowned for its distinctive sound and versatility in audio production. This plugin, developed by Brainworx in collaboration with Purple Audio, aims to capture the essence of the hardware unit while offering additional modern features. The MC77 recreates the fast attack and release times, as well as the characteristic coloration that made the original 1176 a staple in recording studios worldwide. It incorporates Brainworx’s proprietary TMT (Tolerance Modeling Technology) to emulate the subtle variations found in analog hardware components, providing 20 different “channels” that mimic the slight differences between individual units. The user interface is designed to be intuitive, featuring familiar controls that closely resemble the original hardware, making it accessible to both seasoned professionals and newcomers to compression.
Pros:
• Authentic emulation of the UREI/Universal Audio 1176 FET compressor
• TMT (Tolerance Modeling Technology) for added analog realism
• Expanded feature set beyond the original hardware capabilities
• Intuitive user interface that closely resembles the original unit
Cons:
• Can be CPU-intensive, especially when using multiple instances
• Learning curve for users unfamiliar with FET compression characteristics
The Brainworx Purple Audio MC77 boasts an impressive array of features that extend beyond the capabilities of the original hardware. At its core, the plugin maintains the fundamental compression characteristics of the 1176, including the ability to achieve extremely fast attack and release times, which are crucial for shaping transients and adding punch to various sources. The input and output gain controls allow for precise level adjustment and the option to drive the virtual circuitry for additional coloration.
Brainworx has included a collection of presets crafted by industry professionals, offering users a starting point for various applications and serving as educational tools for understanding the plugin’s capabilities.
Purple Audio MC77 retains the iconic ratio buttons (4:1, 8:1, 12:1, and 20:1) of the original, including the famous “all buttons in” mode that produces a unique, aggressive compression effect. However, Brainworx has expanded on this by allowing users to engage any combination of ratios, opening up new creative possibilities not available on the hardware. MC77 uses Brainworx’s TMT, which models the subtle variations in component tolerances found in analog circuits. This technology provides 20 different “channels,” each with slightly different characteristics, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their source material or to create a more natural double-tracking effect when using multiple instances.
Purple Audio MC77 plugin also includes a mix control for parallel compression, enabling users to blend the compressed signal with the dry input. This feature is particularly useful for achieving subtle compression effects or for maintaining transient detail while still benefiting from the MC77’s character. A notable addition is the sidechain filter section, which allows for frequency-dependent compression. Users can adjust the high-pass and low-pass filters to focus the compression on specific frequency ranges, making it possible to achieve more transparent compression or to target problematic frequencies.
MC77 also features a comprehensive metering section, including gain reduction meters and input/output level meters, providing clear visual feedback on the plugin’s operation. The plugin supports mid/side processing, allowing for independent compression of the center and sides of a stereo signal, which can be particularly useful for mastering or for creative stereo field manipulation.
When compared to similar plugins, the Brainworx Purple Audio MC77 stands out for its attention to detail in emulating the original hardware. While there are numerous 1176-style compressor plugins available, such as the Universal Audio 1176 Collection or the Waves CLA-76, the MC77 distinguishes itself through its TMT technology and expanded feature set. The ability to choose from 20 different channels provides a level of variation and realism that many other emulations lack. Additionally, the MC77’s sidechain filtering and mid/side processing capabilities offer more flexibility than some competitors. However, plugins like the UAD 1176 are often praised for their authenticity, and the Waves CLA-76 is known for its lower CPU usage. The MC77 balances authenticity with modern features, positioning itself as a comprehensive option for those seeking the 1176 sound with additional control.
This plugin is for:
• Mixing engineers looking for a versatile FET compressor with modern features
• Producers seeking to add analog-style warmth and character to digital recordings
• Mastering engineers requiring precise control over dynamics and stereo image
• Sound designers in need of a flexible tool for shaping transients and tonal character
Brainworx Purple Audio MC77 is a powerful and flexible emulation of the classic 1176 FET compressor that successfully bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern functionality. Its faithful recreation of the original hardware’s fast attack and release times, along with the characteristic coloration, makes it an excellent choice for adding punch, presence, and warmth to a wide range of sources. The inclusion of TMT technology sets it apart from many competitors, offering a level of analog realism that is highly sought after in the digital domain. While the plugin may be CPU-intensive and require some learning for those new to FET compression, its expanded feature set, including sidechain filtering and mid/side processing, provides experienced users with new creative possibilities. The MC77’s ability to handle everything from subtle dynamics control to aggressive, character-rich compression makes it a valuable tool in any mixing or mastering engineer’s arsenal. Despite the crowded market of 1176-style plugins, the Brainworx Purple Audio MC77 manages to carve out its own niche by offering a compelling blend of vintage authenticity and modern versatility.