United Plugins Royal Compressor is a digital emulation of classic British vari-mu compressors from the 1960s, specifically modeled after the EMI RS124 units used at Abbey Road Studios. This plugin aims to capture the warm, vintage sound and smooth compression characteristics of the original hardware. The Royal Compressor features a simple interface with just a few controls, staying true to the minimalist design of its hardware inspiration. It offers three circuit types, each with a different fixed attack time, allowing users to tailor the compression to their needs. The plugin also includes a saturation control to add valve-like harmonics, further enhancing its vintage character. With its focus on ease of use and classic sound, the Royal Compressor is designed to bring the coveted analog warmth and musicality of legendary hardware to modern digital productions.
Pros:
• Captures the warm, vintage sound of classic vari-mu compressors
• Simple, intuitive interface with minimal controls
• Adds pleasant analog-style saturation
• CPU-efficient despite high internal sample rate processing
• Includes a “broken” version for added vintage character
Cons:
• May be too colored for some modern production styles
• Limited control over attack times compared to more flexible digital compressors
• Relatively high price point for a single-purpose plugin
The Royal Compressor’s feature set is designed to recreate the essence of vintage vari-mu compression while adding some modern conveniences. At its heart is the vari-mu compression circuit emulation, which responds dynamically to input signals, providing a smooth and musical compression character that’s particularly well-suited to vocals, bass, and full mixes.
The plugin offers three distinct circuit types, labeled A, B, and C, each with a different fixed attack time. This allows users to quickly switch between faster, more transparent compression and slower, more colored options without adjusting multiple parameters. The Recovery control combines release time and ratio into a single knob, mimicking the behavior of the original hardware and simplifying the compression shaping process.
One standout feature is the Saturation control, which isn’t present on the original hardware. This adds valve-like harmonics to the signal, allowing users to dial in anything from subtle warmth to more aggressive coloration. The saturation is implemented using a random algorithm that aims to recreate the subtle variations and unpredictability of real analog circuits.
The Input and Output controls allow for gain staging and makeup gain, while an automatic gain control (AGC) feature helps maintain consistent output levels regardless of input gain or saturation settings. This makes it easier to compare different compression settings without being fooled by volume differences.
The Royal Compressor also includes some thoughtful modern features, such as oversampling options for reduced aliasing, and a resizable GUI that maintains its vintage aesthetic while adapting to different screen sizes and resolutions. The plugin supports high sample rates and 64-bit internal processing for maximum audio quality.
An interesting addition is the inclusion of a “broken” version of the plugin, which simulates the quirks and imperfections of a well-used vintage unit. This can add an extra layer of character and unpredictability for those seeking a truly vintage vibe.
The Royal Compressor also features intelligent bypass handling, ensuring click-free toggling and maintaining proper latency compensation when switched in and out of the signal chain. This attention to detail in the plugin’s behavior makes it well-suited for professional mixing environments where seamless operation is crucial.
The Royal Compressor enters a crowded field of vintage compressor emulations, with notable competitors including the Waves CLA-2A, Universal Audio’s LA-2A collection, and the Softube Tube-Tech CL 1B. Compared to these, the Royal Compressor stands out for its specific focus on the EMI RS124 sound, which is less commonly emulated. In terms of sound, users report that the Royal Compressor has a distinct character that’s more aggressive and “grabby” than some other vari-mu style plugins. This contrasts with the Abbey Road RS124 plugin, which is described as smoother and more subtle. The Royal Compressor seems to impart more obvious coloration, which can be a pro or con depending on the user’s needs. Feature-wise, the Royal Compressor is more streamlined than many competitors, with fewer controls but potentially faster workflow. Plugins like the UAD LA-2A collection offer more precise emulations of specific hardware units, while the Royal Compressor takes a more generalized approach to capturing the vari-mu sound. Price-wise, the Royal Compressor sits in the mid-range for this type of plugin. It’s more expensive than some basic vintage-style compressors but less than premium offerings from companies like Universal Audio.
This plugin is best for:
• Producers and engineers seeking vintage British compression character
• Mixing vocals, bass, and full mixes where warmth and glue are desired
• Those who prefer simple, streamlined interfaces over complex controls
• Projects aiming for a distinctly analog-inspired sound
• Users who appreciate subtle variations in sound, thanks to the random saturation algorithm
Royal Compressor is a focused tool that aims to bring the sound of classic British vari-mu compression to the digital realm. Its strengths lie in its warm, vintage character and straightforward interface, making it easy to achieve that coveted analog sound quickly. The addition of a saturation control and multiple circuit types adds versatility beyond what the original hardware offered. However, its distinct coloration may not suit all production styles, and some users might find the limited control over attack times restrictive. The relatively high price point positions it as a premium option for those specifically seeking this flavor of compression. For producers and engineers working in genres that benefit from vintage warmth and character, particularly on vocals and bass, the Royal Compressor could be a valuable addition to their plugin arsenal. Its CPU efficiency and high-quality internal processing also make it suitable for professional mixing environments. While it may not be the most versatile compressor on the market, it excels in its niche, offering a quick path to classic British compression tones.