Over the years, the use of compressors has become necessary for mixing and mastering. The plugin’s market has become saturated with all types and kinds of compressors.
In this post we will discuss the best Opto compressor plugins available in 2023:
2. Tone Empire OptoRed (Hardware Emulation)
3. Brainworx bx_opto (Compressor with Character)
4. Softube Tube-Tech CL-1B (Emulation of CL-1B )
5. Waves Renaissance Vox (Vocal Opto/Electro Compressor)
6. ACME Audio Opticom XLA-3 (Emulation of XLA-3)
7. IK Multimedia Opto Compressor (Emulating Vintage Compressors)
8. Softube Summit Audio TLA-100A (Emulation of TLA-100A )
9. brainworx Millennia TCL-2 by TWINCOM (Great For Mixing & Mastering)
10. IK Multimedia White 2A Leveling Amplifier (Emulation of Teletronix 2A-LA)
From tube to VCA compressors, producers use them for different sound signatures, feel, and overall vibe. Some compressor plugins are modeled after classic hardware units to provide an analog, vintage, warmer feel. Others implement digital technology to achieve a snappy, clean sound on drums, vocals, etc.
However, one type of compressor that seems to be gaining some traction is the Opto Compressor, and we will discuss it in this article.
To understand Opto Compressors, we need to know how compression works and the necessary controls available to you. Compressors function similarly to limiters, as in both plugins work to reduce the dynamic range of the audio, which is the difference in volume between the quietest and the loudest sounds in a track.
Applying compression makes your track sound more leveled and cleaner since compression aims to maintain a good level of loud and quiet parts.
Basic compressor controls include:
- Threshold
A “threshold” is a limit beyond which the compressor is enabled. For example, if the threshold is set at -8dB, all signals which exceed that will enable the compressor to force those signals to duck down in gain to fit the limit (i.e., compress them). Else, the compressor will be in a no compression state/disabled. - Knee
The “knee” corresponds to the way the compressor converts from a no compression state to a compression state. There are two types of knees; hard knee and soft knee. Hard knee means that when signals exceed the threshold, the compressor is enabled immediately, and it feels “snappy.” On the other hand, a soft knee means that when signals exceed the threshold, the compressor is enabled gradually, making it feel softer. - Attack
“Attack” control refers to the time it takes for the compressor to fully compress the signals. The fast attack ranges from 20 – 800 microseconds, whereas a slow attack is anywhere between 10 to 100 milliseconds. - Release
The “release” is the exact opposite of the attack. It refers to the time it takes for the compression to be fully lifted off of the signal. It normally comes in the range of 40 ms to 5 seconds. - Ratio
The compression “ratio” refers to how much a compressed signal is attenuated. - Output Gain
“Output gain” allows you to control the gain of the track after compression. This is useful to compensate for the gain loss due to compression.
What Are The Different Types Of Compressors?
- Tube
Tube compressors are the first generation of compressors. Due to their working mechanism, they normally tend to have a slower response (i.e., attack and release) when compared to other compressor types. This gives the tube compressors the vintage, warmer feel that many producers and engineers look for. Popular plugins that model tube compressors include the Fabfilter Pro C2 and the UAD Fairchild collection, which models the classic Fairchil - VCA
First introduced in the 70s, VCA compressors were very popular due to the invention of integrated circuits (ICs), which meant that you could achieve gain reduction more efficiently and cheaper. Some of the most popular compressor units, like the classic SSL Bus compressor or the DBX 160, have demonstrated the qualities of VCA to producers and engineers. VCA compressors are known to produce a fast and punchy compression to the audio signal. - FET
“Field-Effect Transistors” or FET in short use transistor circuits to emulate the sound of tube compressors. FETs are simple to use and are optimum when you need to quickly apply compression for vocals, guitars, bass, etc. The 1176 compressor shown in the image above is the first FET compressor to hit the market in 1967. It has then been a popular choice for musicians like Led Zeplin, Michael Jackson, and many more.
The 4th type of compressor is the optical/Opto compressor, and it’s the main focus of this article:
What Is An Opto Compressor?
Opto or optical compressors usually utilize a light element and an optical cell to affect the dynamics of an audio signal. Whenever the amplitude of the audio signal increases, the light element increases the light emission, which causes the optical cell to attenuate the signal’s amplitude more.
The image above shows the classic Universal Audio Teletronix LA-2A Opto-Compressor. LA-2A is considered the industry standard Opto compressor. Today, many of the classic, vintage compressors are being modeled into virtual instruments by developers in an attempt to achieve a similar sound signature.
Related Reading:
20 Best Compressor Plugins For ALL Categories 2023
bx Opto vs ACME Audio Opticom XLA-3 | Comparison Plugin Review
How To Mix With Opto Compression?
While mixing, Opto Compression is best for creating smooth compression at a very high ratio as opposed to VCA, which is best for attacking short, sharp transients. Opto compression produces a pleasant sound since it won’t squash the signals dramatically.
Many producers and engineers use a combination of different types of compressors to approach a signal to get the best sound out of the input signal.
10 Best Opto Compressor Plugins (VST, AU, AAX)
1. Softube Opto Compressor
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)
The Softube Opto Compressor is a digital audio plugin designed to emulate the sound and functionality of classic optoelectric compressors from the 1960s.
Opto compressors are known for their smooth and natural compression characteristics, making them ideal for various mixing and mastering applications. It is also considered one of the most accurate and authentic emulations of classic optoelectric compressors.
Other optoelectronic plugins may offer different features or variations on the classic opto compressor sound. For example, some plugins may include additional processing modules or offer more advanced control over the compressor’s behavior. However, the Softube Opto Compressor is often regarded as a go-to plugin for those looking for an authentic and natural opto compressor sound.
Key Features:
- Optical attenuator
One of the key features of the Softube Opto Compressor is its accurate emulation of the T4 optical attenuator, which is the key component in classic optoelectric compressors. This element is responsible for the smooth and natural compression characteristics that opto compressors are known for. The Softube plugin is designed to replicate this behavior as closely as possible. - Tweakable
There is a range of adjustable parameters, including threshold, ratio, attack, release, and makeup gain controls, which allow you to fine-tune the sound of the compressor to suit your needs. The plugin also features a sidechain filter and a mix knob for parallel compression, which provide additional control over the compressor’s behavior. - Character and mix controls
You get a “Character” knob, which allows you to adjust the overall tone and color of the compressor’s sound. It also includes a “Mix” knob, which provides parallel compression functionality and allows you to blend the compressed and uncompressed signals for greater control over the final sound. - Program-dependent release
The compressor’s release time is program-dependent, adjusting automatically based on the incoming signal. That helps to ensure that the compressor responds naturally and musically to changes in the audio.
Compatibility:
The Softube Opto Compressor is compatible with various digital audio workstations (DAWs) on Windows and macOS platforms, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Cubase, and Ableton Live. It is available in several plugin formats, including VST, VST3, Audio Units, and AAX, allowing it to be used in various setups.
Softube offers a free plugin trial on its website, allowing you to test its compatibility and functionality before purchasing.
Summary:
Overall, the plugin features an accurate emulation of the T4 optical attenuator, adjustable threshold, ratio, attack, release, makeup gain controls, oversampling, external sidechain input, stereo linking, and a mix knob for parallel compression. It provides a natural and musical optoelectric compression sound, with intuitive controls and additional processing options for flexibility and control.
2. Tone Empire OptoRed (Hardware Emulation)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
A fabulous fit for vocals and bass, OptoRed is a faithful hardware emulation yet with a transparent sound.
OptoRed is based on a classic American tube compressor. Its most important use is for leveling a track. For example, if you have a bass track that has several loud transients and dips, bring in OptoRed and let it work its magic; you’ll have a clean, balanced track in no time.
Of course, it also sounds phenomenal on drums, percussions, synths, and more. Since it doesn’t have an attack or release parameter, utilizing its wet/dry knob is how you control the sound.
Key Features:
- Internal Side-Chain – The bottom section of the compressor’s interface is the Sidechain section. When turned on, it listens to a filtered input. The Freq parameter lets you select a low-pass filter from 20 Hz to 200 Hz. So, this section is best left reserved for bass-heavy instruments like bass synths, bass guitar, or drums.
- Built-in Limiter – The “Comp/Limit” toggle switches between a smaller compression ratio and a gigantic ratio, effectively turning the compressor into a limiter. There are obvious uses of a compressor, but we also suggest using it on bass synths/guitars as they often require a heavy amount of compression.
- Transparent – Despite emulating a hardware unit, OptoRed doesn’t add coloration, i.e., saturation or distortion, to the audio. Instead, it focuses on being extremely transparent while still employing the compression character of a tube Opto compressor.
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST 3, AU, and AAX formats.
Summary:
While there is a lack of several standard parameters, the compressor makes up for it by having a fantastic sound with universal application. It doesn’t impart any noise or distortion in the name of coloration, and yet, it functions how you’d expect. The only complaint could be the somewhat high price.
3. Brainworx bx_opto (Compressor with Character)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Released back in July 2015, the bx_opto by Brainworks is an Opto compressor plugin designed after traditional optical compressors but with a twist in controls to make it highly versatile.
Obviously, most of the Opto compressor plugins, including the ones discussed in this article, are inspired in some way or another by the classic LA-2A compressor; the bx_opto is no exception. The bx_opto is not as simple as the LA-2A in its interface as it offers a few more control knobs as opposed to the simple 2 main control knobs interface offered by the LA-2A.
These knobs offer you more control over the sound design of the compression, which makes this plugin highly versatile. In addition to that, bx_opto has an improved sound design over the LA-2A. For example, it does not add saturation as dramatically as the LA-2A does, making it easier to use for a pleasant punch at slower speeds and exciting urgency for faster speeds.
Key Features:
- Speed knob allows you to create a unique transient response by controlling the coefficient of a Light Dependent Resistor.
- Fully sweepable sidechain filters
- Analog sound, which sounds warmer and more pleasant to the ear.
- Bx_opto provides you with more control over the sound color compared to traditional compressors.
Compatibility:
This plugin requires Windows 7 or higher for PC and macOS 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/VST3/AU/AAX formats and supports 64-bit devices only.
Summary:
Overall, the bx_opto by Brainworks is an amazing plugin that produces exceptional sounding compression that surpasses traditional compressors in quality. Sign up for the 14-day trial of this plugin and assess the quality of this plugin yourself.
Related Reading:
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4. Softube Tube-Tech CL-1B (Emulation of CL-1B )
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Initially released exclusively in AAX format for Pro Tools users, the CL-1B has quickly garnered attention. This encouraged Tube-tech to release VST, AU, and RTAS formats of the plugin to support all DAWs.
The interface of the plugin version is a carbon copy of the interface of the hardware version, except for the sidechain bussing switch, which has been replaced by a selector which allows you to select between external and internal sidechains. In addition to the interface, the plugin version of the CL-1B does a phenomenal job of mimicking the sound signature of the hardware mono Opto compressor.
When it comes to performance, the CL-1B plugin is peerless for both subtle and audible compression due to its pleasing characteristics possessed by its attack and release. The flexibility of the attack and release controls allow the CL-1B to be very versatile in creating snappy compression for sounds like snares and over-compression for instruments like guitar, bass, etc.
Key Features:
- CL-1B is equipped with a distinctive gain-reduction element that does not introduce distortion to the sound.
- Sidechain bus select knob enables you to choose between an internal and external sidechain.
- Variable attack and release times make this plugin optimum for a wide range of sounds.
- The CL-1B has a VU meter for you to monitor the input, compression, and output.
- Threshold range from -40dB to 0dB.
- CL-1B has a good frequency response ranging from 5Hz – 25kHz.
Compatibility:
This plugin supports Windows 7 or higher for PC and macOS 10.12 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/VST3/AU/AAX formats and supports both 32 and 64-bit devices.
Summary:
Overall, the CL-1B by Tube-Tech is an exceptional emulation of the widely popular hardware by the same company and for a small fraction of that price.
Related Reading:
Top 12 Softube Plugins For Music Production
5. Waves Renaissance Vox (Vocal Opto/Electro Compressor)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
The remarkable simplicity and quality of the work make the Renaissance Vox plugin one of the most suitable solutions for vocals.
The convenience of the software plays a critical role in our workflow. Of course, it is always good if you understand all the compressor settings and know how it will behave. But on the other hand, straightforward options can save you a lot of time and thus provide excellent results right away. That is what the following plugin on our list is.
Waves Renaissance Vox is a well-known plugin widely used by beginners and professionals alike. Speaking of its type, it’s more like an Opto compressor and can provide smooth vocals. But the main thing is that it’s super easy to use because there are only a few controls.
Key Features:
- Set The Threshold
It will be the central regulator of the plugin. In essence, it is a combination of Threshold and Ratio, which works in conjunction. The more you raise the Threshold, the more compression you will hear, and the vocals will become more detailed and pronounced. - In-Build Gate
The remarkable fact is that this little plugin has a built-in noise gate. You will see this slider and the threshold scale on the left. Just set the proper ratio, and it will silence all unnecessary noise. - Gain Control
The slider on the right will help you adjust the correct output signal. If you add more compression, the vocals will become louder. So, you will need to set it back to the previous level, which is where this control helps. - Producers Presets
The creators have put in this plugin and quite an extensive number of presets from the world’s top producers and engineers. For example, you can find options from such big names as Dave Pensado, Eddie Kramer, Greg Wells, Lu Diaz, and others.
Compatibility:
The plugin is available for Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14.6 or higher, both 64-bit only. It comes in VST/3, AU, AAX and Audiosuite formats.
Summary:
Waves Renaissance Vox is a simple but powerful enough plugin to help you compress vocals in the best possible way. It will make it smooth but at the same time expressive and precise. You won’t spend a lot of time figuring out the settings because there are only a few of them. This software can quickly become your to-go solution.
6. ACME Audio Opticom XLA-3 (Emulation of XLA-3)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Developed in collaboration with Brainworx, the ACME Audio Opticom XLA 3 is an incredibly powerful and highly flexible optical compressor plugin.
The original XLA-3 featured an optical circuitry with 3 compression responses that treat sound in different methods, resulting in different sound signatures. In addition to that, you had the ability to add focused harmonic coloring to the input sound and even go further to turn it into a powerful sounding distortion. Furthermore, you had the compressor/limiter, which provided both subtle warmth to a signal or a cranked-up crazy-sounding signal.
The plugin version was mainly developed by Brainworx and managed to perfectly emulate and include all the XLA-3 features into a virtual instrument, with a parallel mix knob, an adjustable noise floor, and an output trim control.
Key Features:
- As mentioned, the XLA-3 plugin offers extra features to the original hardware that add to the versatility and controllability of the effect.
- Amp mode enables you to add color and distortion to the audio signal without compensating in dynamics.
- Since this plugin is developed in conjunction with Brainworx, it has an “LA-2A” feel in terms of sound. On top of that, you get to control the harmonic distortion.
Compatibility:
This plugin requires Windows 7 or higher for PC and macOS 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/VST3/AU/AAX formats and supports 32/64 bit systems.
Summary:
The XLA-3 is an interesting take on optical compressors. It utilizes a unique optoelectric circuit that extracts the best features of 3 different compressors and provides them to you in one unit. ACME Audio Opticom XLA-3 is definitely one of the more expensive plugins in the market. However, many users claim that this plugin is worth its price. Thankfully, you get a 14-day free trial period for you to review it personally.
7. IK Multimedia Opto Compressor (Emulating Vintage Compressors)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
IK Multimedia is another developer that needs no introduction in the plugin’s world. The T-Racks Opto-Compressor comes as a part of their T-Racks 3 mastering software and as an individual plugin as well.
For this plugin, IK Multimedia has managed to emulate an interesting-sounding vintage and come up with a top-notch Opto compressor plugin that we think you will love. The T-Racks Opto compressor manages to pin down all of the main characteristics of an Opto compressor like low distortion, gentle, and transparent sonic nature. In addition to that, the T-Racks Opto compressor also allows for an effective gain reduction and the distinctive coloration of the sound, all with only 5 control knobs – Input, Ratio, Attack, Release, and Compression.
Key Features:
- Spot on the emulation of vintage and analog optical compressors.
- Works as a standalone application as it comes in the T-Racks 3 mastering software.
- High-quality oversampling for highest quality output.
- Sampling rate support of up to 192kHz.
- Full-latency compensation to remove any lag that the plugin may introduce to the mix.
- Straightforward and easy-to-use interface for maximum efficiency.
Compatibility:
This plugin works on Windows 7 or higher for PC and OS X 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/AU/RTAS/AAX formats and only supports 64 bit systems.
Summary:
Overall, the T-Racks Opto-Compressor by IK Multimedia is a top recommendation for every user looking for the “perfect” Opto compressor plugin as it offers that in high quality. In addition to that, it comes at a very reasonable price which makes it a good choice for many users.
Related Reading:
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8. Softube Summit Audio TLA-100A (Emulation of TLA-100A )
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)
Developed by the renowned Swedish developer Softube in collaboration with Summit Audio to create a virtual instrument version of the classic TLA-100A Tube Leveling Amplifier with a few extra exciting controls for you.
The original TLA-100A hardware unit was a go-to compressor for many engineers for use on vocals and acoustic instruments. It was pretty much an industry standard dynamics controller as it was present in most professional studios. The TLA-100A is more accurately referred to as a ‘Leveling Amplifier’ rather than a ‘compressor,’ as it automatically controls the level of vocals without the user’s knowledge to maintain a presence.
The TLA-100A’s popularity came from its exquisite leveling, smooth workflow, and unmatched ease of use – all of which have been successfully captured into the plugin version as well. Summit Audio has a slogan of ‘set and forget,’ which is not just marketing crap: just set the peak reduction knob to the required amount and watch it take care of the rest.
Since the TLA is a valve leveling amplifier, it has a soft knee response which, as discussed, gradually applies switches from non-compression to compression state to allow for a smoother sound.
The plugin version of the TLA adds a few extra controls to the hardware version, including a Low Cut Filter to allow you to set the bass response for either the internal or external sidechain input, which is great for an audio signal that contains a lot of low-frequency signals. In addition to that, you can control the Saturation, which eliminates the need to overdrive the input signal to achieve the classic hardware color and saturation.
Key Features:
- The TLA-100A has a well-organized interface which makes its usage very easy.
- Built-in parallel compression effect and a Low cut filter that can be switched to signal input.
- Every control parameter is modeled in great detail to achieve the perfect sound.
- Saturation knob to control output distortion, which is naturally present in the hardware version.
- Attack and release parameters have slow response times, which makes them have an amazing analog feel.
Compatibility:
This plugin requires Windows 7 or higher for PC and OS X 10.12 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/VST3/AU/AAX formats and supports only 64 bit systems.
Summary:
The TLA-100A plugin by Softube and Audio Summit is the perfect plugin for producers and engineers that want a software version for the classic TLA hardware compressor unit that was an industry-standard Opto-compressor at the time.:
9. brainworx Millennia TCL-2 by TWINCOM (Great For Mixing & Mastering)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Or Buy Here (Support Integraudio)
Another plugin developed by TWINCOM in collaboration with Brainworx, which in my opinion, dominates when it comes to the Opto-compressor market scene.
The TCL-2 is another brilliant Opto-compressor plugin. Obviously, it emulates the traditional TWINCOM hardware, which features “Twin topology” technology. This gives you the ability to choose between a full tube or a full J-FET/solid-state signal path.
The original TCL-2 hardware featured a full tube and a full J-FET/solid-state signal path. This has been perfectly modeled into the plugin version. Furthermore, the plugin allows you to separately process the Mid (M) and Side (S) information, as well as control the Wet/Dry mix for each channel individually.
Key Features:
- Twin topology technology allows for two perfect signal paths.
- 2 signal paths; All triode 300 vacuum tube and All discrete J-FET solid-state signal paths.
- Two topologies – both have no transformers and are of pure, high voltage, Class A circuitry.
- Despite the several control knobs, the TCL-2 remains clean and straightforward in its interface.
Compatibility:
TCL-2 is compatible with Windows 7 or higher for PC and macOS 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/VST3/AU/AAX formats and supports only 64 bit systems.
Summary:
Overall, the TCL-2 is an Opto compressor plugin with surgical precision control knobs for maximum efficiency. Despite its might, many users believe that the price point for this plugin is unjustifiable, especially since there are options out there that offer good-sounding optical compressors for a fraction of that price. On the bright side, it comes with a 14-day free trial, so you can try it out and judge for yourself.
10. IK Multimedia White 2A Leveling Amplifier (Emulation of Teletronix 2A-LA)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Another member of the T-Racks suite by IK Multimedia, the White 2A leveling Amplifier offers a slightly different take on the classic Teletronix LA-2A discussed before.
The classic LA-2A uses a lamp controlled by the side chain to alter the conductivity of a photosensitive device, which then controls the gain for the signal. This is an Opto-attenuator system, and it has some unusual linearities that allow for a smooth and musical sound signature that works perfectly with vocals, as well as adds a subtle warmth to bass instruments.
For the interface, users are greeted with gain control to manipulate the output signal, whereas peak reduction is used to specify the level of gain reduction to be applied. A meter can be switched to show readings from +10dB to +4dB. Additionally, users can set the choice of stereo from L/R or M/S. Finally, users can switch between the limiter and compressor using the switch provided.
The plugin version (the White 2A leveling Amplifier) offers the same control knobs but with additional switches for the stereo control. Now you have this “=” sign which links the two channels, either L/R or M/S, together and processes them simultaneously instead of processing them separately. Moreover, you get to switch between limiters and compressors using the switch provided.
Key Features:
- Dead ringer emulation of the Teletronix LA-2A Opto-compressor in terms of interface as well as sound quality.
- Modeling is quite extensive and detailed up to the T4A optical chip to emulate the behavior precisely.
- As the name states, this is a 2 channel leveling amplifier, and it’s perfect for smoothing vocals and adding more punch to the overall mix.
- 2 channel mode, either stereo linked or Mid/Side modes for the bus compression.
Compatibility:
The OS requirements for this plugin are Windows 7 or higher for PC and macOS 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/RTAS/AU/AAX formats and supports 32 and 64 bit systems.
Summary:
The White 2A leveling amplifier by IK Multimedia offers comprehensive emulation of the Teletronix 2A-LA. So if you are looking for that sound, then we highly recommend this plugin. Its price is fairly reasonable and justifiable, considering the impressive attention to detail by the developers of this plugin.
Best Free Opto Compressor Plugin 2023
ADHD Leveling Tool
Looking like a classic compressor, the ADHD leveling tool is a free plugin that does surprisingly well in capturing the sound of a classic compressor unit.
The developers of this plugin claim to have carefully engineered this plugin for optimum performance on vocals. It can also be used on instruments like guitar, bass, etc., to duck down some peaks and add more punch and character to the mix.
Key Features:
- 4x oversampling, which ensures the highest output quality.
- Attack and release times are adjustable, which is actually a plus point over most plugins discussed in this article.
- The ADHD also offers a VU meter to control the attack and release times.
- The peak reduction ratio is adjustable.
Compatibility
The ADHD leveling tool has support for most Windows and Mac operating systems. It comes in VST/AU formats which makes it not available for Pro Tools. It supports both 32 and 64 bit systems.
Summary:
Overall, this plugin does impressively well for a free plugin. It obviously is not up to par with plugins discussed on this list when it comes to emulating classic compressor sound signature. However, if you are looking for a free plugin that makes a decent attempt at that, then the ADHD leveling tool is the go-to.
Bonus Plugins:
1. London Acoustics – Brighton Opto Tube Comp (Versatile Optical Compressor)
More info & Price (Trial Available)
The custom-built Opto compressor plugin by London Acoustics is a no-brainer when it comes to placement on this list of plugins.
Due to its modern tube compressor concept, the Brighton Opto Tube Comp is suitable for many applications but especially for vocals, bass, leads, and drums due to its fast response times. Despite being greatly inspired by the classic Vactrol VTL5 optical photocell detector, it also models a custom-built compressor prototype with a totally new concept as well as a custom circuit tube preamp.
Its character is widely versatile. It can be smooth like an RMS Opto in normal settings or very punchy and fast in extreme settings.
Key Features:
- The internal sidechain enables you to adjust the low response at the desired level.
- Fast attack and release times (0.1-75 ms for attack and 0.03-3.5 s for release) make it perfect for vocals and drums.
- This plugin has a good peak reduction which ranges from 0 to -64 dB.
- Output gain has a range of 0 to +24 dB.
- The Opto Tube compressor has a built-in Hi-pass filter sidechain with a range of 0 to 250 Hz.
Compatibility:
Brighton Opto Tube compressor is compatible with Windows 7 or higher for PC and Mac OS 10.9 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/AU/AAX formats and supports both 32 and 64 bit systems.
Summary:
The Brighton Opto Tube compressor by London Acoustics is the only plugin mentioned on this list that does not directly model a popular Opto-compressor unit. Still, instead, it adds its own unique design and sound character, which is respectable. It also comes at a pretty decent price considering its capabilities.
2. Audiority LDC2 Compander (Analog-Modelled Compressor / Expander)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
LDC2 by Audiority is an Opto compressor with a slick, throwback design that models another vintage optical compressor unit.
LDC2 has an analog-sounding compressor and an expander that features exchangeable optical circuits and a solid-state preamplifier. In addition to that, it has a smooth and warm sound signature which makes it amazing for recording, live performances, mixing, and mastering.
Key Features:
- LDC2 consists of 17 real-time optical circuit models, which allow for more detailed dynamics and sound signatures.
- Ratio for the optical compressor is fixed at 4:1.
- 40dB maximum gain reduction for the optical compressor.
- Ratio for the optical expander is fixed at 3:1.
- 30dB maximum gain reduction for the optical expander.
- The side chain and the high pass filters both have independent gain control.
- LDC2 has a preamplifier that is diode-based.
Compatibility:
LDC2 requires Windows 7 or higher for PC and OSX 10.8 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/VST3/AU/AAX formats and only supports 64-bit devices.
Summary:
LDC2 is one of the more affordable plugins discussed in this review, which is quite impressive considering its efficiency, sound signature, and versatility. Opting to purchase this plugin is not a bad choice.
3. Waves Renaissance Compressor (Simple, Yet Powerful)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
A plugin by Waves needs no introduction at this point. Waves have always been the leading developers for analog-sounding plugins based on traditional hardware, and the Renaissance Compressor is no exception.
The Renaissance compressor has an incredibly unique, easy-to-use interface with digital precision input for each controlling parameter.
Key Features:
- This plugin offers you two compression modes; Opto and modern Electro modes.
- Renaissance compressor has an internal brick wall limiter to guarantee a clip-free output.
- Auto release control (ARC) for higher RMS levels.
- Very CPU friendly.
- High-quality audio is ensured due to its 24 bit/192kHz resolution support.
Compatibility:
This plugin requires Windows 10 or later for PC and macOS 10.13.6 or later for Mac. It comes in VST/AU/AAX formats and only supports 64-bit devices.
Summary:
The Renaissance Compressor by Waves is an extremely important Opto-compressor plugin used by many producers and sound engineers due to its analog sound and its digital precision parameters. Furthermore, it is a go-to plugin for many users due to its attractive price point.
4. Waves CLA-3A Compressor (Straightforward Opto)
More Info & Price (Trial Available)
Developed by Waves in collaboration with the renowned mix engineer Chris Lord Alge, the CLA-3A comes as a part of the CLA bundle. It offers a unique sounding optical compression which definitely earns it a placement on this list of plugins.
The CLA-3A models the popular ’70s solid-state compressors, which at the time offered better transparency when compared to the tube compressors. This gives it the tendency to perform better on vocals and guitars as opposed to the tube compressor modeled CLA-2A. The compressor is straightforward and easy to use, with a gain knob to adjust the output gain and a peak reduction knob to control the signal. Additionally, you can switch between compressors and limiters just like traditional hardware.
Key Features:
- Perfectly models a widely popular compressor/limiter into a plugin that is easy to use.
- CLA-3A has fast response times which makes it perfect to use for up-tempo music.
- Sound quality is never compromised, even in extreme settings.
- Has both a limiter and compressor for different applications.
- You can choose to add analog frequencies to the signal and choose either 60 or 50 Hz frequencies.
- 24 bit/192kHz depth resolution support for maximum quality.
Compatibility:
CLA 3A only works on Windows 10 for PC and macOS 10.13.6 or higher for Mac. It comes in VST/AU/AAX formats and only supports 64-bit devices.
Summary:
The CLA-3A by Waves is the recommended plugin for users who need a straightforward Opto-compressor plugin that is budget-friendly and offers high-quality sound.
Conclusion
The Opto-compressor market is a pretty interesting and exciting market for producers and engineers. If you are looking for a plugin that sounds like your favorite optical compressor hardware unit, then you won’t have a hard time finding that. Many developers work closely with the hardware developers to bring you the classic, vintage Opto-compressor sound that has for long been a fan favorite.
In addition to that, multiple developers decided to add their own artistic touch to their plugin for enhanced abilities in terms of control and sound character, and a lot of them turned out really impressive, like the Brighton Opto Tube compressors and so on. This review compiles a list of what we think are the best optical compressors in the market. In short, you will not be disappointed by choosing to buy any of the plugins mentioned in this review.
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Started as a rapper and songwriter back in 2015 then quickly and gradually developed his skills to become a beatmaker, music producer, sound designer and an audio engineer.