Plugin reviews - Softube

[rhythmtech]

right guys, first plugin reviews up. i'll keep this sticky until we get a dedicated sub forum.

first up, Softube!

FET compressor
Vendor: Softube
Copy protection: iLok
Platform: Windows: PC & Mac OSX
Plug-in formats: RTAS, TDM, Vst and Audio Units.
Licences available: There is only one commercial license available. There is also a fully functional 20 day demo available, although an ilok is needed to utilise the demo
Availability: The software can be bought from many worldwide dealers as well as Softube’s own web store.

Softube’s FET compressor is loosely based on the Urei 1176 hardware unit.
Features:

• Modeled analog compressor, input and output stages.
• Modeled "All buttons in" mode
• Continuous ratio (even between 20:1 and ALL.)
• Fast attack time.
• Input and output stage distortion.
• Parallel compression.
• Detector low and high cut filters
• External side chain
• Lookahead
• Stereo with synchronized gain reduction
• Very CPU friendly

The softube FET compressor for me was one of the greatest leaps in analog modeling software of the last year. The compressor is a stunningly accurate recreation of the original Urei compressor but with added digital features that bring it right up to date.
The most important aspect of this compressor is the input and output modeling stages. Up to now most analog emulated software compressors have relied on the attack/release curve to try to bring their sound close to their hardware counterparts. The FET on the other hand models the actual distortion stages of the original unit.
This compressor has become my goto for snares, vocals and drum buss compression but is at ease handling many different sources.
The GUI is stunning to look at, and while not an important factor in the sound is clearly a major selling point in these times when retro design is what the market is after.
I can honestly say that I can find no downside to this compressor (except maybe that its not an actual hardware unit!)