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R/E/P => R/E/P Archives => The Acid Test => Topic started by: Fibes on September 04, 2008, 03:20:46 PM

Title: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Fibes on September 04, 2008, 03:20:46 PM
Occasionally, there is a plug in that makes me think I'm working in the other realm. No, they aren't the same and I'm not talking simply GUI emulations I'm talking about funky, usually inexpensive plugs that do things I miss from the world of tape.

The first one is Dischord 2 by Audio Damage. No, it's not a 910 or 949, it's a bit different but i actually have found it indespensible for "Eventidewidening" and getting thise vari-speed double tricks that fall outside of the monitors.

http://www.audiodamage.com/images/products/screenshot/discord2_SS.gif

More later...

Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: imdrecordings on September 04, 2008, 03:53:22 PM
This is a killer EQ.
Notice anything?
No numbers!
You have to use your ears to eq!
Sounds as good as the UAD Pultec EQ, without the automatic 1.5db bump in volume.
I've seen your posts in the past about not liking to look at the DAW screen and thought you'd really like this.
Using your ears never felt so goooood, ITB!

http://www.eiosis.com/images/aireq/aireqinterface.jpg
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: maxim on September 04, 2008, 09:47:20 PM
i was going to keep this one to myself, but, in the spirit of things, here is my latest favourite plugin

http://www.crysonic.com/nxtasyv2.html

there's a LOT of power under the hood of this baby

it is a very intuitive way to add various order harmonics to the source material

i wish i had this on my guitar amp...

Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: J.J. Blair on September 04, 2008, 11:53:23 PM
Hey guys, before I do any editing on this thread, please read the guidelines for the forum in terms of what we're looking for for "reviews."  Simple shout outs, and links to websites will be deleted.  So if you have anything you want to say about something, say it in a way that let's us know about your user experience, etc.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on September 05, 2008, 02:40:12 AM
Speaking of 910's

Have you guys tried the Eventide 910 plug?   One of the few I like.  It does not sound analog  but it does sound cool.-j
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Fibes on September 05, 2008, 10:20:13 AM
J.J. Blair wrote on Thu, 04 September 2008 23:53

Hey guys, before I do any editing on this thread, please read the guidelines for the forum in terms of what we're looking for for "reviews."  Simple shout outs, and links to websites will be deleted.  So if you have anything you want to say about something, say it in a way that let's us know about your user experience, etc.


"The first one is Dischord 2 by Audio Damage. No, it's not a 910 or 949, it's a bit different but i actually have found it indespensible for "Eventidewidening" and getting thise vari-speed double tricks that fall outside of the monitors."

It does not function in the same way the analog units do, it's actually better in some ways than it's analog cousins and as usual the audio snobs who live up on a mountain road looking down at the rest of us will say it lacks "magic" or some other intangible term which usually correlates directly to "broken" or some other real condition that was a direct flaw in the design or the build.
As a closet luddite I find the Dischord 2 plug as an amazing tool that is as deep or as plug and play as one would like in a unit of this style. It goes beyond the realm of the original hardware units which makes for a processor that can be as clear or as "broken" as one would like. What is especially worthy of note is the routing and mix values throughout the processor which give an immense amount of sonic control even without the weight and messy cabling involved in hardware.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I did a free beta test run of the Audio Damage bucket brigade plug in because I love their stuff and wanted to be a part of developing a BB style plug that brought me back to the days of noisy tempermental pieces of shit worth of a date with my audio.
In closing, tis understood how incredibly unhip it is to talk plug ins on the internet; especially when people are watching that might be able to further my career in some transformer embracing esoteric movie pitch kind of way.
Next weeks essay will be on how to control Asian call girls with a 250k potentiometer.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: tom eaton on September 09, 2008, 11:57:43 PM
Fibes wrote on Fri, 05 September 2008 10:20


Next weeks essay will be on how to control Asian call girls with a 250k potentiometer.



Please be explicit and specific regarding your personal experiences or JJ may delete your post.

Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Mike O on September 10, 2008, 01:41:43 PM
It might help later searches to have one product per thread. The obvious exception is direct comparisons of products used for same/similar purposes.

Just a thought........
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: wwittman on September 11, 2008, 01:22:13 AM
Fibes wrote on Fri, 05 September 2008 10:20

...
In closing, tis understood how incredibly unhip it is to talk plug ins on the internet; especially when people are watching that might be able to further my career in some transformer embracing esoteric movie pitch kind of way. ...




It's incredibly useful to talk about plug ins.
who DOESN'T want to?

just about all of us USE them, to one degree or another (except Albini, I guess) right?


it's DUMB, in my opinion, to pretend that they are in any way "analogue" (and worth noting that nobody makes an analogue box that attempts to "sound digital") but that shouldn't really be the point.
"analogue-like' is a marketing slogan.

it either sounds good or it doesn't. It's either useful or it's not.

but, do you guys find one plug in pitch shift/ddl really sound that much different from another?
I have to admit, i don't.


Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: eightyeightkeys on September 11, 2008, 09:54:05 AM
wwittman wrote on Thu, 11 September 2008 01:22


...but, do you guys find one plug in pitch shift/ddl really sound that much different from another?
I have to admit, i don't.




There is one delay out there that is different. Extremely flexible - comes with filters(cut-off frequency, resonance), it's own spring and plate reverb that is surprisingly good when the delay feeds these reverbs and sounds really, really good. The PSP84/42

I find it a bit clumsy in terms of adjusting feedback times and feedback gain , but, PSP Audioware claims that they wanted to keep the delay absolutely faithful to the original analog counterpart.

If you haven't tried it, give it a shot.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: eightyeightkeys on September 11, 2008, 09:58:10 AM
Oh, they do have downloadable demo's which, imo, is really, really important.

I wanted to check out the Dischord2 plug-in that Fibes mentioned, but, Audio Damage said, "they don't do demo's. Instead they have a no questions asked, money back guarantee."

Fine.

I haven't tried it. I'm not that interested to have to chase down money after I've paid it.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Fibes on September 11, 2008, 10:06:57 AM
Hopefully I'm missing your sarcasm as much as you missed mine.

Either way thanks for helping to solidify my sentiments.

IMO this plug does sound different although it may sound different in NYC or in LA.



Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Nick Sevilla on September 11, 2008, 12:03:45 PM
Hi,

I've used the Nomad Factory series of plugins for almost two years now. I really like the newer ones, the Analog Signature Pack.

Those really can bring a dull, lifeless instrument or even mix back to life.

The fact you can add varying amounts of tube saturation, is wonderful. And also you can either twist the knobs, or set the knobs via the digits under them, is really useful.

My only gripe with them, is that occasionally when saving or accessing presets via their own plug in saving scheme, they sometimes (1 or 2 times out of 10) do crash. So now I'm used to saving right before saving a preset.

Cheers

PS I am not endorsed, no do I work for Nomad Factory. I just feel they could have more exposure.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: wwittman on September 11, 2008, 02:59:41 PM
Fibes wrote on Thu, 11 September 2008 10:06

Hopefully I'm missing your sarcasm as much as you missed mine.

Either way thanks for helping to solidify my sentiments.

IMO this plug does sound different although it may sound different in NYC or in LA.







I didn't miss your sarcasm, and was basically agreeing with you!

wanna fight about it?


Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Fibes on September 11, 2008, 04:29:22 PM
wwittman wrote on Thu, 11 September 2008 14:59

Fibes wrote on Thu, 11 September 2008 10:06

Hopefully I'm missing your sarcasm as much as you missed mine.

Either way thanks for helping to solidify my sentiments.

IMO this plug does sound different although it may sound different in NYC or in LA.







I didn't miss your sarcasm, and was basically agreeing with you!

wanna fight about it?





Heh.

I dig the PSP 42/84 too.

And Dave I can guarantee you won't need to chase down your money even if you decided to "return" the item.




Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: burp182 on September 11, 2008, 04:34:58 PM
Something very telling about the PSP 42 plug. Lexicon lets him put the Lexicon brand on it. They feel it's as close to the real thing as possible, so they're OK with it. No Lex logo on the 84, since it isn't a recreation of a physical Lex piece. I believe it has the same delay algorithms as the 42 with expanded capabilities (and 2 delay lines).
Great stuff.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: jetbase on September 11, 2008, 07:32:03 PM
Speaking of "almost analogue" plugs, probably my most used plug in over the years has been Steinberg's Magneto. I wouldn't say that it sounds like any tape machine I've used, or that it "warms up" the sound, but what I love about it is that it brings out midrange detail in mixes in a pleasing way. On individual tracks it can add a tasteful amount of subtle overdrive. One of it's strengths is not that it sounds analogue, but that it doesn't sound digital. And it's very easy to use.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: J.J. Blair on September 11, 2008, 10:30:31 PM
I've actually become a very big fan of the Crane Song Phoenix.  Not the same as tape, but goes a long way to de-digitize things.  
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Tomas Danko on September 12, 2008, 06:35:13 AM
jetbase wrote on Fri, 12 September 2008 00:32

Speaking of "almost analogue" plugs, probably my most used plug in over the years has been Steinberg's Magneto. I wouldn't say that it sounds like any tape machine I've used, or that it "warms up" the sound, but what I love about it is that it brings out midrange detail in mixes in a pleasing way. On individual tracks it can add a tasteful amount of subtle overdrive. One of it's strengths is not that it sounds analogue, but that it doesn't sound digital. And it's very easy to use.


I miss Magneto a lot. I wish I could buy it as a stand-alone plug-in and use in Logic.

It did something awesome to vocals. Put them way up-front and made them sound as if the singer had been working the mic a lot harder than in reality. I have never come across another plug-in that sounds the same.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Andres Gonzalez on September 12, 2008, 11:40:49 AM
J.J. Blair wrote on Thu, 11 September 2008 22:30

I've actually become a very big fan of the Crane Song Phoenix.  Not the same as tape, but goes a long way to de-digitize things.  


Another happy user of Phoenix here. It just seems to "improve" whatever I use it on.

-Andres
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Greg Thompson on September 14, 2008, 05:17:57 PM
for doing what the Phoenix does, I find  that the Massey "Tape Head" plugin starts off where the Phoenix "Dark Essence" leaves off.  ie:  even more crunch/mush.  goes almost all the way to stomp pedal.

In case you are looking for more of that flavor.

Greg
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Knastratt on September 15, 2008, 02:26:18 AM
The PSP Vintage warmer is great for drum buss. Adds balls. The Sonalksis suite is gentle (read - analog-like) and is great for adding a few dB's.

Some of the emulations in Focusrite Liquid Mix are usable - especially the API EQ and the SSL master comp.

Be well - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Bill_Urick on September 15, 2008, 05:39:04 PM
Knastratt wrote on Mon, 15 September 2008 02:26

The PSP Vintage warmer is great for drum buss. Adds balls. The Sonalksis suite is gentle (read - analog-like) and is great for adding a few dB's.

Some of the emulations in Focusrite Liquid Mix are usable - especially the API EQ and the SSL master comp.

Be well - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Knastratt on September 16, 2008, 03:50:30 AM
Bill_Urick wrote on Mon, 15 September 2008 23:39

Knastratt wrote on Mon, 15 September 2008 02:26

The PSP Vintage warmer is great for drum buss. Adds balls. The Sonalksis suite is gentle (read - analog-like) and is great for adding a few dB's.

Some of the emulations in Focusrite Liquid Mix are usable - especially the API EQ and the SSL master comp.

Be well - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Bill_Urick on September 16, 2008, 06:07:25 AM
Thanks.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Blas on September 16, 2008, 09:48:02 PM
Another plug for the plug Magneto!  Had another Nuendo guy tell me about it and didn't really put it to play for several months after.  Big mistake...once I did use it, I found all kinds of application.  It's nice to find a good toy in the Cracker Jack box every now and then!

Blas
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: CRonan on September 18, 2008, 06:02:41 PM
EchoBoy
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Ryan Slowey on September 19, 2008, 09:28:05 AM
Worth checking out, is the Massey TD5 delay plugin. I've yet to find a software delay that sounds as good and is as fun to use.

Analog? I'd say it comes pretty damn close to my ears, but I don't have too much experience with hardware stuff. I have used the Fulltone Tube Tape Echo and various stompbox analogue delays, and while the Massey doesn't sound 'just like' them in, I'd say it holds its own, and you can definately hear a similar character. It has a nice tape warble in vintage mode, and it'll freakout with feedback like a tape delay if you want it to. It even adds hiss to the signal (not a problem with proper gain staging).

Driving the input knob can dirty things up nicely, if you're after a grittier, tube-drive type of sound.

It also has a "Modern" mode, which gives you a nice clean delayed signal, and eliminates the tape hiss. Much less warble too.

There's also a bit of an "EQ" in the form of a "Dark, Normal, Bright" switch, so you can make further adjustments.

I've had great success with it on just about every possible source. My favorite thing to do lately, is to take a mono sum of a drum kit, and delay it by around 30ms, add some dirt to it in vintage mode, and blend it subtly with the dry drums. Gives the effect of a distant room mic with lots of character. And.. It's spectacular on vocals.

Highly recommended.

Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: danickstr on September 19, 2008, 07:52:35 PM
I was going to listen to the Eiosis air EQ demo but I noticed that it requires a "Syncrosoft dongle" whereas I am using the ilok dongle.  Does this mean I have to buy another dongle?
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on September 20, 2008, 05:33:16 AM
Does anyone like the Eventide 910?  plug?


Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: imdrecordings on September 21, 2008, 10:31:17 AM
I don't know if you need the dongle for the demo (I don't think you do), but you do with the full version.  They have pricing that includes a dongle as well.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Revolution on September 21, 2008, 10:43:10 PM
Phoinex and Echoboy get my vote.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Ashermusic on September 22, 2008, 11:04:43 AM
UAD plugs here.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Empty Planet on September 23, 2008, 09:45:01 AM
Yes the UAD Plate 140 is nice, and probably fits the thread category.

Also, the Tritone Digital boys have a couple that can be very nice, though very annoyingly they require installation of the Pluggo platform.

I'd say some of the Audio Damage plugs have a non-digital sound too.

In the "fun VST" sub-category I'd also put the Bootsie plugs...

 http://www.kvraudio.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=217522&hig hlight=bootsie

http://www.kvraudio.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=206363

http://www.kvraudio.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=202790

...a few of which are quite nice and all of which are, remarkably, free.  Tessla, a distortion plug, actually has to be driven into the red to work properly, a novel dynamic for any plugin I'm aware of.


Cheers.

Cool
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Nick Sevilla on September 23, 2008, 04:11:49 PM
Ashermusic wrote on Mon, 22 September 2008 08:04

UAD plugs here.


Hi Jay,

I'm going to be upgrading my system to ProTools HD, Logic Pro, and I want to get some feedback on the UAD plugins, to see if I buy them, and get to use them on the next big mix, which is an about a month and a half from now.

A friend of mine, Dan Marnien, used these a few years ago, and swore by them. I have yet to use them, but am interested in their new faster CPU card.

Are you on the UAD-1 ? And how do you rate their plugins?

Thanks,

Nick
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Tomas Danko on September 24, 2008, 06:43:32 AM
Nick Sevilla wrote on Tue, 23 September 2008 21:11

Ashermusic wrote on Mon, 22 September 2008 08:04

UAD plugs here.


Hi Jay,

I'm going to be upgrading my system to ProTools HD, Logic Pro, and I want to get some feedback on the UAD plugins, to see if I buy them, and get to use them on the next big mix, which is an about a month and a half from now.

A friend of mine, Dan Marnien, used these a few years ago, and swore by them. I have yet to use them, but am interested in their new faster CPU card.

Are you on the UAD-1 ? And how do you rate their plugins?

Thanks,

Nick



If you do a search here on PSW you will find a lot of threads praising and discussing the UAD-1 plug-ins. IMNSFHO they are the reason that makes it possible for me to mix ITB. They make all the difference.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Bill_Urick on September 24, 2008, 07:05:36 AM
I wish someone would make an analog summing box plug-in.

That would rock!

Massey?
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Knastratt on September 24, 2008, 01:30:06 PM
Bill_Urick wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 13:05

I wish someone would make an analog summing box plug-in.

That would rock!

Massey?


Ahem, there actually is one. Sort of. Havent heard it though.

HTTP://www.tcelectronic.com/DSoundVL2.asp

Cheers - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Tomas Danko on September 25, 2008, 06:18:37 AM
Knastratt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 18:30

Bill_Urick wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 13:05

I wish someone would make an analog summing box plug-in.

That would rock!

Massey?


Ahem, there actually is one. Sort of. Havent heard it though.

HTTP://www.tcelectronic.com/DSoundVL2.asp

Cheers - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Bill_Urick on September 25, 2008, 05:44:00 PM
Tomas Danko wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 06:18

Knastratt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 18:30

Bill_Urick wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 13:05

I wish someone would make an analog summing box plug-in.

That would rock!

Massey?


Ahem, there actually is one. Sort of. Havent heard it though.

HTTP://www.tcelectronic.com/DSoundVL2.asp

Cheers - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Ashermusic on September 26, 2008, 02:08:52 AM
Nick Sevilla wrote on Tue, 23 September 2008 21:11

Ashermusic wrote on Mon, 22 September 2008 08:04

UAD plugs here.


Hi Jay,

I'm going to be upgrading my system to ProTools HD, Logic Pro, and I want to get some feedback on the UAD plugins, to see if I buy them, and get to use them on the next big mix, which is an about a month and a half from now.

A friend of mine, Dan Marnien, used these a few years ago, and swore by them. I have yet to use them, but am interested in their new faster CPU card.

Are you on the UAD-1 ? And how do you rate their plugins?

Thanks,

Nick



i have both a UAD-2 Duo and a UAD-1. I think they are among the best sounding native plug-ins available, although the Duende's SSL and Waves are also quite good. Also,  UA is the kind of company that i wish to support. Great people.

The bottom line is that you would have to pry mine from my cold dead hands.



Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Tomas Danko on September 26, 2008, 03:56:28 AM
Bill_Urick wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 22:44

Tomas Danko wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 06:18

Knastratt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 18:30

Bill_Urick wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 13:05

I wish someone would make an analog summing box plug-in.

That would rock!

Massey?


Ahem, there actually is one. Sort of. Havent heard it though.

HTTP://www.tcelectronic.com/DSoundVL2.asp

Cheers - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: A.J. on September 26, 2008, 07:00:11 PM
Ryan Slowey wrote on Fri, 19 September 2008 09:28

Worth checking out, is the Massey TD5 delay plugin. I've yet to find a software delay that sounds as good and is as fun to use...Highly recommended.



Absolutely! It's one of the only delay plugins I like to actually hear in the mix. And the only one I don't have to EQ the crap out of to make it useable. But it seems most people here like the Massey stuff. They're all pretty great... and "almost analog".
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Bill_Urick on September 26, 2008, 09:12:25 PM
Tomas Danko wrote on Fri, 26 September 2008 03:56

Bill_Urick wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 22:44

Tomas Danko wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 06:18

Knastratt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 18:30

Bill_Urick wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 13:05

I wish someone would make an analog summing box plug-in.

That would rock!

Massey?


Ahem, there actually is one. Sort of. Havent heard it though.

HTTP://www.tcelectronic.com/DSoundVL2.asp

Cheers - P
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: meverylame on September 26, 2008, 11:13:53 PM
I'm working on this plugin right now. I'll call it the "clientizer". Available on all platforms. Its a clean stereo 1 db boost on whatever you put it on. Just A/B it for the client. They'll be amazed. You'll be on the way to being to next Phil Spector. 20 USD. Per license.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: eightyeightkeys on September 28, 2008, 01:08:35 PM
A.J. wrote on Fri, 26 September 2008 19:00

Ryan Slowey wrote on Fri, 19 September 2008 09:28

Worth checking out, is the Massey TD5 delay plugin. I've yet to find a software delay that sounds as good and is as fun to use...Highly recommended.



Absolutely! It's one of the only delay plugins I like to actually hear in the mix. And the only one I don't have to EQ the crap out of to make it useable. But it seems most people here like the Massey stuff. They're all pretty great... and "almost analog".


Too bad they're not VST !

From his web site :
Q. Are you going to port these plug-ins to AU, VST, DirectX, etc!??
A. I would love to support all the platforms. But, maintaining and debugging so many variations would be a significant on-going commitment that could compromise my current support and maintenance obligations. So, for the time being, I plan to focus on the current offerings and my existing customers.


Doh !
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Nick Sevilla on September 29, 2008, 01:02:43 PM
Thanks Jay, for the reply.

I am awaiting word as to the compatibility of the UAD-2 Nevana128 card, which is what I'll be adding to my ProTools HD rig.

As soon as that is declared compatible, I'm getting it.

Cheers
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Bill_Urick on September 29, 2008, 06:26:23 PM
meverylame wrote on Fri, 26 September 2008 23:13

I'm working on this plugin right now. I'll call it the "clientizer". Available on all platforms. Its a clean stereo 1 db boost on whatever you put it on. Just A/B it for the client. They'll be amazed. You'll be on the way to being to next Phil Spector. 20 USD. Per license.


I'll be happy to beta test this for you, if you like.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Nick Sevilla on September 30, 2008, 11:56:30 AM
Thanks Jay (Ashermusic),

I was informed that the card I want to buy, the UAD-2 Nevana 128 (the Quad core one) is not yet compatible with ProTools HD.

So i will have to wait , but I will buy it as soon as it is running under PTHD, as this is the system I will be running at home from now on.

I still like Logic Pro 8 better for mixing... Wink

Meanwhile, I do want to tell people about the Waves Vintage Classic Bundle.

I've used these, and got to compare them recently at a friend's house, who has the API Lunchbox with all the different modules, and some Neve rackmounted EQs, including the 1073 and the 1081s.

We compared the demos to the real ones he has. They were VERY close. Yes, they are emulations, and as such they are not identical, but we were able t get them close enough to within an acceptable range that we were happy with.

So +1 to Waves and their Neve and API clones. We did not get to compare the SSL, as we did not have one handy Smile

Cheers
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: PookyNMR on September 30, 2008, 02:54:41 PM
I'd have to agree.  The Waves API, Neve, Fairchild / Pultec, SSL emulations all quite good.  They have some of that character that comes from actual knobs.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Vertigo on October 06, 2008, 01:27:42 PM
Quote:

Occasionally, there is a plug in that makes me think I'm working in the other realm. No, they aren't the same and I'm not talking simply GUI emulations I'm talking about funky, usually inexpensive plugs that do things I miss from the world of tape.

The first one is Dischord 2 by Audio Damage.


I bought this plug-in about a year ago based on Fibes recommendation. I can attest to its "analog" sound, usability, and general awesomeness. It's probably my favorite plug-in when it comes to modulation effects (for which I generally almost always favor outboard). There aren't many bases it can't cover in this regard.

Quote:

The Waves API, Neve, Fairchild / Pultec, SSL emulations all quite good. They have some of that character that comes from actual knobs.


I swore off of all Waves plug-ins many years ago. The API and SSL suites really changed my mind. The API eq's are very "life-like" and can do some amazing things when boosted, although I don't find them useful for cutting. I think the SSL comp emulations are among the best compression plugs out there.

-Lance

Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Empty Planet on October 06, 2008, 09:16:57 PM
Well now, how about an ADT plugin?

VST (unfortunately for the PT users), though there is an AU version, and NO GUI!  But it DOES have adjustable ADT pan, wow %, wow frequency, flutter %, flutter frequency, and the option to choose (separately) between sine and triangle waveforms for both the wow and flutter.

http://www.vacuumsound.de/plugins.html

I've just been playing with it for a few minutes, but it seems kinda great.   Cool

Oh yeah, it's free.  Very Happy   God bless VST.


Cheers.



Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: fragletrollet on June 17, 2009, 05:43:34 AM
Acusticaudio Nebula 3 Pro + AlexB's console emulations ()http://www.alessandroboschi.eu/html/en/alexb.htm)

Run the RND5088 (Guess what preamp that is Very Happy) on all samples (maybe several times)prior to any other prosessing, and find yourself eq'ing and prosessing less later, and it certainly adds a sparkle!


And so cheap!
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: wwittman on June 19, 2009, 12:31:30 AM
I like the Bomb Factory Essential Tuner


it works just like a hand held guitar tuner, it's free, it's accurate

and it's just about the only plug in I can honestly say I can't instantly tell from the analogue version

Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Hallams on June 21, 2009, 07:51:47 PM
[quote title=meverylame wrote on Sat, 27 September 2008 13:13]I'm working on this plugin right now. I'll call it the "clientizer". Available on all platforms. Its a clean stereo 1 db boost on whatever you put it on. Just A/B it for the client. They'll be amazed. You'll be on the way to being to next Phil Spector. 20 USD. Per license. [/quote

Does that mean after a few years using the "clientizer" i'll end up bald and in jail?
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on June 28, 2009, 06:02:10 AM
Chris,  It's well laid and in jail.

xj
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Ashermusic on June 29, 2009, 12:17:19 PM
Empty Planet wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 02:16

Well now, how about an ADT plugin?

VST (unfortunately for the PT users), though there is an AU version, and NO GUI!  But it DOES have adjustable ADT pan, wow %, wow frequency, flutter %, flutter frequency, and the option to choose (separately) between sine and triangle waveforms for both the wow and flutter.

http://www.vacuumsound.de/plugins.html

I've just been playing with it for a few minutes, but it seems kinda great.   Cool

Oh yeah, it's free.  Very Happy   God bless VST.


Cheers.






Thansk for the tip, i look forward to trying this.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: zmix on July 02, 2009, 01:45:04 AM
Plugins sound "analog" the same way that HDTV looks "real".....
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Ashermusic on July 02, 2009, 10:25:44 AM
zmix wrote on Thu, 02 July 2009 06:45

Plugins sound "analog" the same way that HDTV looks "real".....


Good analogy, Chuck.

That said, just as I cannot have the actors or sports players in my living room so I have HDTV, I will use the UAD plugs.Smile
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Fibes on July 02, 2009, 10:38:04 AM
Yeah Chuck, hence the "almost" in the thread title. For me the GUI isn't what gets me in familiar territory with emulations, it's the things that happen when you tweak it. There have been a few plugs that do what I consider a decent job but unfortunately none of them are EQs or Compressors.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Eric H. on July 06, 2009, 07:00:23 PM
Now let's make a thread about what plug-in does a better job than a medium quality analog box.
I'd rather have a Protools eq than a berhinger eq.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Ashermusic on July 07, 2009, 12:20:11 PM
Ashermusic wrote on Mon, 29 June 2009 17:17

Empty Planet wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 02:16

Well now, how about an ADT plugin?

VST (unfortunately for the PT users), though there is an AU version, and NO GUI!  But it DOES have adjustable ADT pan, wow %, wow frequency, flutter %, flutter frequency, and the option to choose (separately) between sine and triangle waveforms for both the wow and flutter.

http://www.vacuumsound.de/plugins.html

I've just been playing with it for a few minutes, but it seems kinda great.   Cool

Oh yeah, it's free.  Very Happy   God bless VST.


Cheers.






Thansk for the tip, i look forward to trying this.



Wow, this is a really nice sounding plug-in that I will use a lot. I have paid money for lesser.

Thanks again.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: zmix on July 09, 2009, 12:23:19 AM
Eric H. wrote on Mon, 06 July 2009 19:00

Now let's make a thread about what plug-in does a better job than a medium quality analog box.
I'd rather have a Protools eq than a berhinger eq.


You've obviously never actually compared them, have you.  Fess up.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Eric H. on July 11, 2009, 05:37:57 PM
Well, i have and there is clearly no debate.
Some analog boxes kill your signal the moment you put it in.
That's my experience with some lo Q midas, soundcraft, mackie, beringher and others i don't remember.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: wwittman on July 15, 2009, 05:56:05 PM
this would make a GREAT new ad campaign


"the new ______ EQ Plug IN: Better than cheap, crappy analogue!"


this is what it's come to
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Jay Kadis on July 15, 2009, 08:35:54 PM
How good was the first triode audio amp?

Improvement comes to all technologies.  There's been significant improvement in DSP already.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: johnR on July 16, 2009, 05:33:05 AM
Eric H. wrote on Sat, 11 July 2009 22:37

Well, i have and there is clearly no debate.
Some analog boxes kill your signal the moment you put it in.
That's my experience with some lo Q midas, soundcraft, mackie, beringher and others i don't remember.

You do realise that many of the well-liked classic analogue EQs have lower Q than a lot of the cheap modern ones?
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Eric H. on July 18, 2009, 08:04:37 PM
I'm sorry i was lazy.
by lo Q, i meant low quality.

I do think that some plugs-ins, especially for eq (precise or not) and peak limiting can sound better in the box than with low to mid quality analog processors.
I'd better have good digital processing than medium analog processing.
I'd better have medium analog processing than medium digital processing (anyone remembers the O2R eq and reverbs...).
I also think very Good digital processing can be as good as good analog processing.
I still think a lot of it as to do with budget and interfacing.

By the way, has anyone tried to replace the mouse with a graphic tablet? i have a small one and begin to find it pretty cool for general use as a digital finger (if i may say so..)
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: wwittman on July 19, 2009, 10:49:47 PM
Eric H. wrote on Sat, 18 July 2009 20:04



I do think that some plugs-ins, especially for eq (precise or not) and peak limiting can sound better in the box than with low to mid quality analog processors.




true

Eric H. wrote on Sat, 18 July 2009 20:04


I also think very Good digital processing can be as good as good analog processing.




not
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on July 19, 2009, 11:03:26 PM
Great digital is better than broken analog
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Glenn Bucci on July 20, 2009, 03:23:09 PM
The new Waves CLA plug ins sound closer to analog than anything I have heard from any software. They actually sound like part of the original signal, and not layered on top like most plug ins I have heard. There is also a certain forward sound that software usually does not usually impart to the signal that I have not heard before. The modeling technology of 2009 is getting pretty dang good.  Looking forward in hearing the UAD Manley VariMu as well.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Tomas Danko on July 20, 2009, 06:34:49 PM
Glenn Bucci wrote on Mon, 20 July 2009 20:23

The new Waves CLA plug ins sound closer to analog than anything I have heard from any software. They actually sound like part of the original signal, and not layered on top like most plug ins I have heard. There is also a certain forward sound that software usually does not usually impart to the signal that I have not heard before. The modeling technology of 2009 is getting pretty dang good.  Looking forward in hearing the UAD Manley VariMu as well.


I might be wrong here, but isn't Waves CLA just a bunch of impulse responses for their convolution EQ plug-in, in a clever package?
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Glenn Bucci on July 20, 2009, 08:34:34 PM
Tomas Danko wrote on Mon, 20 July 2009 18:34



I might be wrong here, but isn't Waves CLA just a bunch of impulse responses for their convolution EQ plug-in, in a clever package?


When I interviewed Waves when I did the Waves SSL review for EQ, they told me that they are getting better results with modeling over convolution when it came to EQ's and compressors.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Tomas Danko on July 21, 2009, 01:55:18 PM
Glenn Bucci wrote on Tue, 21 July 2009 01:34

Tomas Danko wrote on Mon, 20 July 2009 18:34



I might be wrong here, but isn't Waves CLA just a bunch of impulse responses for their convolution EQ plug-in, in a clever package?


When I interviewed Waves when I did the Waves SSL review for EQ, they told me that they are getting better results with modeling over convolution when it came to EQ's and compressors.


Please forgive a Swedish guy, but to be totally certain about what you meant was it that their modeling technology (i.e. not convolution) worked better for EQ and compression in comparison to their convolution technology?
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: J.J. Blair on July 22, 2009, 03:00:33 PM
Yes, that's what he means.  (I think!)
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Nick Sevilla on July 23, 2009, 06:39:38 PM
seedyunderbelly.com wrote on Sun, 19 July 2009 20:03

Great digital is better than broken analog


Amen to that!

I use the Waves Classic Collection because of that very problem.

I can mix and remix all day, and not worry about two things :

Broken gear.

High temperatures in the control room.

Cheers,

Nick
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: zmix on July 24, 2009, 12:50:57 AM
Glenn Bucci wrote on Mon, 20 July 2009 20:34

When I interviewed Waves when I did the Waves SSL review for EQ, they told me that they are getting better results with modeling over convolution when it came to EQ's and compressors.



I don't think this quote is accurate.  I measured 35 dB of null between my SSL hardware and the Waves SSL, but about 89dB of null between my hardware and a convolved IR of it.


I am certain that the "better" results they are referring to are only quantified in sales figures...
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Kendrix on November 30, 2009, 10:59:56 AM
The UAD stuff has been mentioned many times.

In the way of EQ their 1073 always amazed me for its faithfullness to the target sound.

I just spent some time auditioning the new trident A-range EQ.
The HW unit employs inductors rather than caps to shape the frequency response.  The Great River EQ does the same and produces some of the same character: very solid and smooth.  
No woofiness.

The Trident is just a bit edgy/forward in a good way (somewhat API-ish).
I've never even seen a trident console in person (although we've all heard some of the classic releases produced on it).
However, the smoothness and tone of this one has got me singing the praises of UAD once again (analog-like or not).
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Kendrix on December 01, 2009, 10:04:01 AM
Kendrix wrote on Mon, 30 November 2009 15:59

The UAD stuff has been mentioned many times.

In the way of EQ their 1073 always amazed me for its faithfullness to the target sound.

I just spent some time auditioning the new trident A-range EQ.
The HW unit employs inductors rather than caps to shape the frequency response.  The Great River EQ does the same and produces some of the same character: very solid and smooth.  
No woofiness.

The Trident is just a bit edgy/forward in a good way (somewhat API-ish).
I've never even seen a trident console in person (although we've all heard some of the classic releases produced on it).
However, the smoothness and tone of this one has got me singing the praises of UAD once again (analog-like or not).



To build on the above.. i spent some time last night really critically listening and comparing the Trident to other EQ/Channel strip plugs including various UAD neves and the pultec.

The Trident smokes em all in many areas.

Hard consonants:  These were neither accentuated nor smothered/smeared.
They came through clearly and naturally.  No other insert did this as well as the trident. (Input was male vox via a U195 through a GR NV)

High end: Cymbals:  Cymbals can be hard to de-digitize.  The Trident did this best of all.  It produces a clear, natural full & pleasant crash & a smooth tail.  It was neither dark nor bright.  Even when I boosted the highs it didn't make me wince.

Bass: solid but not at all boomy.  No low/mid haze at all.
Adding a bit of 60hz gave me some of the 1073 low-down flavor and still didn't become woofy/boomy. I got the bass to sit in the mix easily.  

Snare: The 1073 can do to a snare what nothing else does.  However, that Neve bite is certainly not in the input signal to that extent.  OTOH the trident was more natural and EQ boosts were much more pleasant sounding.  This is a case of "whatever works".

Toms: The ringing tails came though very naturally.  I could clearly hear what sounded like a drum skin flexing.  None of the other plugs sounded nearly as clear or natural.  It seems that the frequency and phase relationships come through in tact and maintain their integrity throughout the tail. The trident was a real standout in this regard.  

El guitar: The subtle harmonics of a classic overdriven tone using single coils/class A amp really came through with the Trident in a way none of the other plugs could reproduce.  I heard pleasant details I never heard before.  Nice depth.  On a solo lead the LP filter at 10 or 12K made me smile.

Male vox:  The problematic low-mids were easily dealt with via the HP filter and a slight scoop at 250 leaving a smooth and just slightly forward sound.    Im tempted to say it was API-ish.  Testing the high end boost on vox gave the same results as on cymbals.  It was smooth and not at all harsh or digital sounding.

Inserting a trident an all channels of a mix made my day.
Depth was improved  (in a tranny sort of way).  
No low-mid build up or other artifacts arose.
It may not be analog but it sure didn't sound digital.
The trident adds just enough character / mojo to impart a sonic signature.  It ain't boring.  However, it isn't particularly colored either.  It walks a very fine line in that regard.

I've thought about it and I've got nothing bad to say about this plug.  I am clearly infatuated.  However, I think  this relationship will be long term.

Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Fibes on December 02, 2009, 02:24:44 PM
Ken,

I bought the plug, used it on a mix yesterday and found it to be a worthwhie addition to the stable (although I primarily use the Sonalksis, Uad Pultec and select URS plugs ITB).

It appears to act more like an analog eq in the sense that you don't have to add twice as much to get the same results.
Title: Re: The thread dedicated to "almost analog" plug ins.
Post by: Fenris Wulf on December 13, 2009, 07:44:20 AM
Tomas Danko wrote on Fri, 12 September 2008 11:35

jetbase wrote on Fri, 12 September 2008 00:32

Speaking of "almost analogue" plugs, probably my most used plug in over the years has been Steinberg's Magneto. I wouldn't say that it sounds like any tape machine I've used, or that it "warms up" the sound, but what I love about it is that it brings out midrange detail in mixes in a pleasing way. On individual tracks it can add a tasteful amount of subtle overdrive. One of it's strengths is not that it sounds analogue, but that it doesn't sound digital. And it's very easy to use.


I miss Magneto a lot. I wish I could buy it as a stand-alone plug-in and use in Logic.

It did something awesome to vocals. Put them way up-front and made them sound as if the singer had been working the mic a lot harder than in reality. I have never come across another plug-in that sounds the same.

I like it too. We track to analog, but if I have to mix a location recording I'll throw it on the kick and snare. Makes a great transient smoother. It also does cool things to acoustic guitars. I believe it's old Spectral Design code, they made some of the only plug-ins that still stand up after 10 years, like Q-Metric. The old standalone version still works on PC but probably not on Mac. There's a more refined version with additional controls but it's only availabe for the AudioCube mastering platform, requires some kind of special internal dongle. Sad