Softube Chandler Limited Zener-Bender is a powerful channel strip plugin that combines two iconic pieces of hardware: the Curve Bender mastering equalizer and the Zener Limiter. This digital emulation brings the unique vintage sound of Chandler Limited to the modern DAW environment, offering users a taste of the legendary EMI console sound used at Abbey Road Studios. The plugin faithfully recreates the crisp, colorful character of the Curve Bender and the big, punchy sound of the Zener Limiter, resulting in a versatile tool for mixing and mastering.
Zener-Bender plugin is designed to deliver a phenomenal sonic impact, bringing class and history to any mix. It features component-modeled circuitry, ensuring that the plugin captures the nuances and character of the original hardware. The combination of these two units in a single plugin allows for a focused channel strip workflow, making it easier for engineers to shape their sound without switching between multiple plugins.
Pros:
• Authentic emulation of two iconic Chandler Limited hardware units
• Versatile channel strip workflow combining EQ and compression
• Vintage sound with modern precision and flexibility
• Extended features for enhanced usability and control
Cons:
• Relatively high CPU usage due to detailed component modeling
• Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with the original hardware
The Zener-Bender’s feature set is comprehensive and thoughtfully designed. The Curve Bender section provides a highly musical and characterful mastering equalizer. It offers both subtle and drastic EQ options, always managing to enhance the sound in a pleasing way. The EQ section includes low and high pass filters, which can be applied at the input stage or within the EQ section itself. Users have access to mixing and mastering gain options, with the ability to make fine adjustments of half a dB or bold boosts and cuts of up to 15 dB.
Softube’s attention to detail is evident in the plugin’s user interface, which replicates the look and feel of the original hardware. The vintage-style VU meters, Bakelite knobs, and analog quirks are all present, providing a tactile and visual experience that resonates with the plugin’s sonic character. However, Softube has also incorporated modern features and workflow enhancements, striking a balance between vintage charm and contemporary functionality.
The Zener Limiter component of the plugin is a versatile and powerful compressor/limiter. It brings punch and power to the sound, along with tasteful distortion characteristics. The compressor section offers three modes: Comp 1, Comp 2, and Limit, each with its own unique compression curve. Softube has cleverly combined the input and output gain functions into a single threshold knob, maintaining the authenticity of the sound while simplifying the user interface.
One of the standout features of the Zener-Bender is its Drive section, which is based on the Zener Limiter’s THD circuitry. This allows users to add meaty distortion to their signals when desired. The Drive Character parameter provides control over high-mid emphasis or de-emphasis, offering further tonal shaping possibilities.
Softube has also included some modern enhancements in the form of Extended Features. These easy-access panels provide innovations that are not present in the original hardware, such as an external sidechain input and Mid/Side processing capabilities. These additions significantly expand the plugin’s versatility and make it more suitable for contemporary production techniques.
The Zener-Bender is also available in a Console 1 version, which integrates seamlessly with Softube’s hardware controller. This version includes additional features like a Shape section based on the SSL SL 4000 E-series strip, providing gate and transient shaping capabilities. The Console 1 integration offers a hands-on, analog-like experience that many users find intuitive and inspiring.
While it may require some time to master and can be demanding on CPU resources, the Zener-Bender rewards users with a rich, musical sound that can elevate mixes and masters. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from subtle enhancement to dramatic sound shaping. The addition of modern features like external sidechaining and Mid/Side processing ensures that the plugin remains relevant in contemporary production environments.
When comparing the Zener-Bender to similar plugins, it stands out for its authentic vintage sound and the pedigree of the original hardware. While there are many channel strip plugins on the market, few can claim the lineage of EMI consoles and Abbey Road Studios. The Zener-Bender competes with other high-end channel strip emulations like the Waves Abbey Road TG Mastering Chain and the Universal Audio SSL E Channel Strip. However, the Zener-Bender’s unique combination of the Curve Bender EQ and Zener Limiter sets it apart, offering a distinct flavor that is hard to replicate. In terms of sound quality and authenticity, the Zener-Bender is on par with, if not superior to, many of its competitors. Its ability to impart character and vibe to a mix is particularly noteworthy. Where it may fall short is in CPU efficiency, as the detailed component modeling can be demanding on system resources. Additionally, some users might find plugins from companies like Slate Digital or Brainworx to offer more modern features or a wider range of emulations in a single package.
This plugin is best for:
• Mix engineers seeking authentic vintage console sound
• Mastering engineers looking for high-quality EQ and compression
• Producers wanting to add character and vibe to their tracks
• Users of Softube’s Console 1 system seeking an integrated channel strip solution
Softube Chandler Limited Zener-Bender is a remarkable plugin that successfully bridges the gap between vintage hardware and modern digital workflows. It captures the essence of two legendary pieces of equipment, bringing their unique sonic characteristics to a wider audience. The plugin’s ability to impart warmth, character, and a touch of analog magic to digital recordings is its greatest strength. For those who appreciate the sound of classic recording equipment but require the convenience and recall abilities of plugins, the Zener-Bender offers an excellent compromise. It’s a tool that can add a touch of class and history to any mix, making it a valuable addition to the plugin collections of discerning audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.