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Saturating Valve-Style Compressor
X-ValveComp is a fully-featured mono or stereo channel compressor with a full set of classic channel compressor controls and an added 'valve' emulation stage. The valve emulation stage sits after the compressor in the signal path and adds a variable degree of primarily 2nd order harmonic saturation and distortion that thickens and colours the sound.
The compressor can be switched between Peak or RMS modes and has a full set of controls including; Threshold, Ratio, Knee, Attack, Release and Hold. There are Input and Output Meters with separate kick down compression amount indication and Input and Output Level controls. There's a Gain Make Up control and switched Auto Gain Make Up mode.
A dedicated wet/dry mix control facilitates parallel compression. Side Chain input, high and low pass filters can be used to trigger compression. X-ValveComp can be automated via standard DAW Automation data and has A&B Preset 'slots' with an A/B switch for easy comparison of two different combinations of settings.
Features
- Traditional compressor layout with threshold, ratio, knee, attack, release, and hold controls
- Engage the valve emulation stage for rich 2nd-order harmonics
- Use it in parallel, à la New York–style compression, for extra heft and weight
- Operate in Peak and RMS modes
- Includes sidechain architecture with highpass and lowpass filters
System Requirements
Mac
- macOS 11 Big Sur - macOS 13 Ventura (64-bit only) (M1 Mac supported)
- Intel Dual-Core Mac running at 2.4GHz or higher
- 4 GB of RAM minimum (8 GB of RAM recommended)
- AU, VST2, VST3, AAX Native
Windows
- Windows 10 - Windows 11 (64-bit only)
- Intel Core 2 (or comparable) CPU running at 2.4GHz or higher
- 4 GB of RAM minimum (8 GB of RAM recommended)
- VST 2, VST3, AAX Native
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Reviews Summary
While it aims to provide a helpful overview, it may not capture every perspective or detail. We encourage you to read individual reviews to make an informed decision.
Users consistently praise this SSL valve compressor plugin for its versatility, ease of use, and professional sound quality. Reviewers highlight its ability to add analog warmth, harmonic color, and 'glue' to individual tracks—such as vocals, bass, and drums—as well as mix and master buses. The built-in valve drive feature is a standout, delivering musical grit and character without over-processing. While one user noted it leans toward a modern coloration, the general consensus is that it offers exceptional dynamic control, useful saturation, and outstanding value for money.
