14 Best NEVE Plugins 2023 (EQs, Preamps &#038; Channel Strips)

The Lindell Audio 80 Series is an impressive analog modeling plugin, with each of its 32 channels being unique.

The Linear and Harmonic Analyses give an insight into the subtle changes between each Channel, allowing you to capture the richness usually found only in individual hardware components. With Lindell 80 Series, the sound of a classic Neve 8028 desk can now be brought into the digital workflow, giving your tracks and mixes that coveted analog warmth with all its variation in component tolerances. Even if you don’t have access to expensive hardware, this engineering feat makes your vintage sound great.

Key Features:

Parallel Mix Control:
The Lindell Audio 80 Series Parallel Mix Control tool adjusts the balance of dry and wet signals on every Channel. This feature allows users to find their perfect blend of sound for any given project quickly and efficiently. For example, you can make subtle soundscape adjustments or bold, creative decisions to craft precisely a track.
Oversampling From 2X up to 16X:
It features a unique oversampling system that can take the output resolution from 2X up to 16X, giving you the power to reach unprecedented levels of audio fidelity. With these exceptionally high resolutions of sample rates, you experience crystal clear sound without any previously unheard-of distortion or noise.
Noise Control:
The 80 Series noise reduction feature from Lindell Audio is the perfect solution for noisy recording environments. This technology drastically reduces background noise, improving audio recordings and giving them a much clearer sound. With up to 30dB of attenuation, the 80 Series make your recordings friendly.
Harmonic Saturation:
Its Harmonic Saturation is an excellent tool that helps extend your mix’s warmth. This saturation emphasizes higher harmonics without introducing any extra artifacts or noise into the music, so you can create deep, warm sounds that have character and depth.
Resizable GUI:
Featuring an intuitive and easily resizable GUI, this series allows you to tailor its look and feel to perfectly fit your needs. This is great for producers who prefer a streamlined layout and those who may be new to the software and need an easy-to-navigate interface.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Lindell 80 Series bridges the world of vintage Neve audio components with modern digital technologies – allowing you to capture that original analog feel across 32 channels. Gone are the days of painstakingly assembling multiple components to obtain that sought-after presence; now, you can replicate Gil Neve’s design for a fraction of what it would cost otherwise.

2. Brainworx bx_console N

With the Brainworx bx console N, producers of all genres now have access to a classic Neve VXS sound at an affordable price.

This fantastic digital hardware has 72 channels, each boasting familiar dynamics processing, equalization, and filtering options. It also features low processing requirements to fully use its capabilities even on the most basic setups. All these features culminate in one good sonic experience that can approximate the unique warmth of a vintage analog console without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

Four-Band EQ Section:
This excellent four-band EQ section can shape sound like never before and provides endless possibilities for experimentation. Through easy-to-use controls such as a low-shelf filter, two parametric bands, and a high-shelf filter, adjusting your tone has never been easier. Plus, the built-in LED meters help ensure precision in every mix.
“INV Gate” Switch:
This feature allows audio engineers to modify transients quickly and accurately, such as converting traditional gating into dynamic ducking. The INV Gate switch utilizes an inverted signal, meaning a signal curve characterized by sudden rapid changes in amplitude compared to standard signals whose waveforms progress steadily in one direction. As a result, users can achieve unique sonic effects that are difficult with basic analog gates.
” Mix” Control:
The Brainworx bx_console N brings analog-style mixing to your digital workflow. Its unique “Mix” control lets users layer their dry signal directly over the processed one. This classic technique gives users a powerful way to enhance their recordings and makes many tonal possibilities possible. By manipulating the blend of both signals, creatives can achieve nuanced sounds that were previously not accessible in the digital recording space.
High Pass Sidechain Filter:
The Brainworx bx_console N features a High Pass Sidechain Filter, which allows producers to customize their mix with greater accuracy and efficiency. This filter provides a dramatically improved frequency recognition experience by allowing users to isolate low or high-range frequencies in their audio signal. Not only does this help balance the sound across the spectrum, but it also aids in creating space within the track.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 8 or higher and macOS 10.11 or higher, runs on 64-bit only, and comes in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

The Brainworx bx_console N is a feature-packed audio processor that’s great. Its range, threshold, release, and hysteresis knobs offer dynamic control for good results as a gate or expander.

The high-pass side-chain filter delivers top-notch clarity and pristine highs. Its “Mix” knob allows you to balance unprocessed and treated signals. And with its “INV Gate” button, you can quickly establish the gate while adding an exciting impact thanks to reversed signal processing.

3. UAD Neve 1073 Preamp & EQ Collection

1073 combines the functions of a microphone preamp and an equalizer. There are transformers in both the input and output stages of the preamp, which many would argue are the most crucial to the sound quality.

With 1073, you only need to turn one knob to control the entire mic preamp section. The “big red knob” on it serves as both a gain control and an input selector, in contrast to most modern mic preamps.

It can be switched between a high (1200 Ohms) and a low (400 Ohms). The default setting for the unit is “Hi.” The “Hi-Z” instrument-level setting on newer preamp designs is nothing like this, as it allows you to tailor it to a specific mic (those impedances range up to millions of ohms). The third, ten kilohm impedance setting, is activated automatically when the line level is selected. To change the impedance on older models, you had to get under the desk, but newer models have a toggle on the back.

Key Features:

Low Shelving Band:
The low shelving band allows you to add or subtract weight from frequencies of 35, 60, 110, or 220Hz. This feature provides an easy way of tailoring your sound to create nice round lows that can give your tracks extra power without compromising on clarity.
High Pass Filter:
This allows the user to intuitively cut out low-end frequencies to obtain a sharper sound that suits particular styles or reduces muddiness caused by overcrowding in dense mixes. From subtle roll-offs to dramatic cuts, this innovative feature allows for enhanced control when creating an exceptional mix.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.6 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, RTAS, and AU formats.

Summary:

The 1073’s sound quality is most notable at the extremes of its operating range. Therefore it’s only natural that the plugin will share these lovely places with the hardware. 1073 is often used for boosting and clarifying the sound of drums, bass, and other instruments in addition to its more obvious application as a vocal preamp.

4. Waves Scheps 73 – Neve 1073 EQ and Preamp

Waves Audio worked with world-renowned mixing engineer Andrew Scheps to craft a 1073 plugin that perfectly matches the hardware.

Speaking of 1073, Waves Audio’s Scheps73 is Waves Audio’s version of the British classic. It features interrelated bands that adhere to the 1073’s original specs and accurately emulate its behavior.

It also features a switchable low and mid-range, 18db/oct high-pass filter and includes the 1078’s 10Khz mid-range band. You can go from simply adding color to defining your signal’s tone and shape in less than a minute.

Key Features:

Input/output link:
There’s a unique function to this plugin that uses inverse gain staging, which allows you to have realistic monitoring of the processing you’re adding. This monitoring helps you have the ability to determine how much overdrive you’re feeding into the signal and allows you to make better adjustments because your perception won’t be affected by the variation of gain.
Stereo mode:
The plugin operates on the stereo, dual, and m/s modes. In stereo mode, the left and right settings are linked, and every adjustment applies to both sides equally. If you work in dual mode, you can adjust each side independently, and if you change back to stereo, they’ll stay offset from each other so that any adjustment you make will remain the same. Finally, if you’re set to m/s mode, it adds a mid/side processor to the left EQ, so you’d control the middle with the left knob and the sides with the right.
Monitor section:
Allows you to monitor the left and proper signals independently, mono, or stereo. This feature is helpful because it gives you different options for better evaluations and adjustments when listening to the signal.
EQ section:
It has just about anything any EQ should have, but what’s particular about the EQ section is that in addition to the fixed frequencies that you get with the plugin, they’ve also included the 10Khz midrange band from 1078, which separates it from the original piece. Each band has an in/out switch so that you can bypass them individually.

Compatibility:

Supports Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14.6 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3 AU, and AAX formats

Summary:

You can hear the openness and character of the Neve. What makes this plugin unique is its control over the preamp and the ability to work with the tonal character. The modeling of the EQ is remarkably faithful to its analog counterpart. With all the fantastic features added, it offers a broad palette of sound and character that separates this plugin from the rest.

Regardless, if you get this plugin, watch out for the output since it can quickly go wild and be all over the place or hurt your ears if your monitor system is on a high level. The drive option sounds great, but it’s too much in terms of how much gain it adds and the significant amplitude difference.

5. UAD Neve 88RS Channel Strip Collection

Unlike its physical analog, the 88RS channel strip only has the most functional features, eliminating extras such as aux sends, bus sends, a monitor section, etc. The only controls are the Channel’s output fader, filters, gate/VCA dynamics, EQ, and preamp/line input.

The input portion functions as a line amplifier by default but may be converted to a mic input to pass the incoming signal through a simulation of an 88RS preamp. In addition to a -20 dB pad for adjusting the input volume to the preamp, there is a phase reversal switch and an input for a microphone.

Key Features:

Dynamics Section:
This section lets you precisely formulate your sound using simple and intuitive tools, from gentle gating to hard limiting. In addition, it includes an expander that provides surgical precision when it comes to controlling dynamic range or the amount of gain reduction applied by compression.
EQ Section:
Based on the signature curves of the original Neve analog console, this EQ section provides users with easily adjustable parameters to help sculpt any sound they desire. From powerful bass boosts to subtle cuts and everything in between, the UAD Neve 88RS Channel Strip brings authentic Neve character to all production styles.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

UAD has revised the 88RS to become Unison-compatible with the API Vision. This means that your physical preamp on your Apollo interface may imitate the impedance and gain staging of the original Neve channel strip, giving you access to all of the channel strip’s non-linear qualities (at the expense of UAD DSP power).

6. T-Racks EQ 81 By IK Multimedia

The EQ81 is a clone of the Neve 1081, an improved version of the 73 that includes a second mid-frequency band.

With a dual-concentric knob, you may toggle between high and low bands, peaking filters for the middle and high frequencies, and high and low pass filters. While not wholly parametric, the two inner bands can be toggled between standard and high Q, while the outer bands can be toggled between shelving and peaking.

Key Features:

High Pass and Low Pass Filter:
The built-in filters allow users to easily remove unwanted frequencies and fine-tune the desired sound field. Whether you’re looking for a clear recording or an edgier, more intense effect, using the High Pass and Low Pass Filter on the T-Racks EQ 81 can help you get the exact sound you want.
M/S:
Featuring an M/S function, this device can be inserted in your signal processing chain via a Mid-Side matrix and allows you to equalize the Center or Sides of your audio independently. This means no more trying to EQ both channels simultaneously; instead, you can apply individual emendations and customize the final output with increased precision.
RESET:
It includes a RESET function for all its parameters, allowing you to reset everything with one click. This can be incredibly useful if you accidentally hit the wrong button and make a mistake, as it provides an easy way to return to where you were before. It also enables users to experiment with their settings without fear of making costly errors in their mix.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

The EQ81 provides an impressively high level of regulation. It’s notable more for its personality than its clarity. As the input volume to the emulated preamp increases, the simulated preamp begins to sound “warmer” and then visibly distorted.

7. UAD Neve Dynamics Collection

This device offers studio engineers a wide range of dynamics control options, letting them effortlessly shape and refine their sound with a few simple adjustments.

It has an intuitive control panel makes it straightforward to adjust compression, limiting, gain-shaping, and other features. It also features a broad frequency response that allows for precise processing at any stage of the production process. The result is an excellent sound – whether in recording studios or on stage.

Key Features:

Side-Chain Filter:
It features a unique side-chain filter that allows users to precisely shape the input they send to the compressor without affecting the original signal. This provides flexibility, allowing users to boost specific elements, such as low frequencies, and apply various dynamic effects with greater precision. Not only does this make mixing more accessible, but it also provides enhanced creative freedom when producing music.
Dry/Wet Mix Control:
This makes it easy to use the plugin – allowing users to adjust the signal they want to process while working without taking their focus away from the project. It’s convenient, as well as produces good sound results.
Fast/Slow Attack Setting:
One key feature of the plugin is its Fast/Slow Attack Setting. This allows the user to choose from a wide range of envelope speeds with fast options that feel very responsive and snappy. The slower settings maintain more consistency as they decrease; you can craft that perfect tone using this setting.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.6 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, RTAS, and AU formats.

Summary:

From subtle transparency to bold richness, it can get whatever job you need to be done with accuracy and clarity. Whether finely tuning a vocal performance or creating creative effects for an entire track – the UAD Neve Dynamics is just the tool.

8. UAD NEVE Preamp

As heard on numerous legendary recordings, all the bandwidth and attitude of Rupert Neve’s original hardware design are present in the Neve Preamp plugin, which combines the sound characteristics and features of the prized 1073 and 1290 designs.

The Neve Preamp plugin can faithfully recreate the original preamp’s sound and behavior by simulating its dual-stage “Red Knob” preamp and output amplifier with meticulous precision.

Key Features:

High Pass Filter:
This allows the user to intuitively cut out low-end frequencies to obtain a sharper sound that suits particular styles or reduces muddiness caused by overcrowding in dense mixes. From subtle roll-offs to dramatic cuts, this innovative feature allows for enhanced control when creating an exceptional mix.
Low Shelving Band:
The low shelving band allows you to add or subtract weight from frequencies of 35, 60, 110, or 220Hz. This feature provides an easy way of tailoring your sound to create nice round lows that can give your tracks extra power without compromising on clarity.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.6 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, RTAS, and AU formats.

Summary:

For a traditional analog channel that requires little processing power, owners of UA Audio Interfaces can now record via a legendary Neve preamp in real time. Through its compatibility with UnisonTM technology from Universal Audio, the legendary Neve preamp’s essential impedance, gain staging, and circuit behaviors may be experienced by anybody using a UA Audio Interface.

9. Slate Digital Virtual Preamps Collection

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Slate Digital’s newest product, and first preamp modulation, is the Virtual Preamp Collection. The FG-73 is based on a well-known British discrete solid-state preamp, whereas the FG-76 is based on a well-known vintage tube preamp.

This collection of virtual microphone preamps brings the sound of two classic units directly into your digital audio workstation. A state-of-the-art modeling technology was used to model each preamp, allowing for a faithful recreation of the signature sounds of the original circuits. The preamp circuit is modeled in great detail, from subtle coloring to extreme saturation and distortion, thanks to the algorithm’s dynamic nature.

Key Features:

Retro GUI:
The Slate Digital Virtual Preamps feature a Retro GUI that allows users to add and subtract saturation to their audio for a classic yet modern musical flavor. This graphical user interface takes its aesthetic from vintage analog gear, providing users with an excellent experience as if they are using genuine preamps.
Virtual Drive Knob:
The pinnacle of this offering is The Virtual Drive knob includes an external output gain to ensure your signal representation remains accurate. Turning up the knob emulates the classic warmth and distortion of hardware preamps without revealing any unwanted levels in its output sound. With this feature, you can customize your tone for each track without worrying about levels overpowering each other in the mix.
Trim:
The Trim is a precise output gain control that allows users to adjust the levels of their audio recordings easily for more desirable output. It can be adjusted from 0dB to +12dB, creating excellent and accurate results. This feature helps significantly in reducing unnecessary distortion and increasing clarity within recordings, as it’s possible to instantly match levels from different sources with just a few clicks.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.14 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

The VPC collection is fantastic as a whole. Beautifully tinting and enlivening your music, it can be a real game-changer. The sound of the FG-76 is more pronounced and thicker, while that of the FG-73 is slightly warmer and fuller.

10. Arturia Pre 1973

Modeled reproductions of vintage preamps from several hardware consoles are bundled under the catchy title 3 Preamps You’ll Use by Arturia. They are sold separately and can be used as inserts in your digital audio workstation to recreate the effects of the original device.

It has a high pass filter to remove the bass rumbling of background noise, a three-band equalizer, an input gain section that can be increased to introduce harmonic distortion for a fuller sound, and an output trim to fine-tune the volume. Automatic gain control, continuous (rather than stepped) controls, switchable transformers, and M/S mode are only some of the new features made possible by the software format.

Key Features:

Input Gain:
This powerful preamplifier has an input gain that allows the user to dial in the signal. With such precise control over levels, any sound you treat with the Arturia Pre 1973 can be shaped with astonishing lightness and depth.
High Pass Filter:
One of the most helpful features of the Pre 1973 is its High Pass Filter, which allows producers to filter out unwanted frequencies and get rid of any muddy low-end frequencies. Producers can also use it to sculpt the high-end frequency range so that their musical elements fit perfectly.
Output Trim:
The ability to fine-tune sound levels is beneficial for those who want to ensure their setup is optimized for the best audio experience. With the Pre 1973, you can hone in on the exact sound level you are looking for in every mix. This handy tool makes creating and sculpting complex sounds simpler and faster.
Automatic Gain Control:
This powerful tool is equipped with an Automatic Gain Control (AGC) that will cleverly automate your gains. It intelligently adjusts the output volume for you, so there’s no need to constantly monitor and manually adjust it as the input gain changes. The AGC delivers superior sound quality, ensuring uniformity in level, clarity, and tonal balance so you can save time and energy when tracking, editing, or mixing.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, runs on 64-bit only, and comes in VST2, VST3, AAX, and AU formats.

Summary:

Musically, it delivers as promised. The HF’s swooping arc is replicated, while the mid and low bands can add bite and warmth as desired. An increase in volume, from a slight boost to full-on distortion, can be achieved by increasing the pre-gain.

11. Sonimus Burnley 73

This recreation faithfully recreates the 1073’s signature sound by modeling the EQ’s two input stages and the output stage, which features +16/-24dB of gain to compensate for any volume changes caused by the EQ.

The Burnley 73 makes an effort to emulate not only the Neve’s sound but also its visual style, though vintage purists will notice that the Marconi-style knobs have been swapped out for chicken-head style knobs, which aren’t quite as authentic but are much easier to read at a glance.

Key Features:

EQ Bands:
Unlike a traditional equalizer with a wide range of adjustments, the Sonimus Burnley 73 features seven bands that can be customized precisely. Each of these bands has unique parameters and characteristics that offer dynamic adjustment options, making it easier for producers to strengthen and weaken specific frequencies when needed.
Filter Section:
The filter is designed to provide tone shaping and leveling that is both flexible and authentic. Its intuitive design allows users to fine-tune their sound quickly. You’ll be able to apply subtle or drastic filtering depending on the material you choose and your desired effect.
DAW Integration:
Its cleverly designed DAW integration technology allows users to employ its vintage-style compression, saturation, EQ, and output control for a truly immersive sound experience. At the same time, its intuitive user interface makes it incredibly easy to dial in settings at the click of a button, so you can quickly get the desired results with minimal effort.
High Pass Filter:
This plugin features a high pass filter that can shape and polish the low end of all kinds of sounds, from in-depth tracks to complex mixes. The delicate roll-off can create an immersive tone without harshness by removing unwanted low frequencies, making it perfect for mixes that need extra finesse.

Compatibility:

It is compatible with Windows XP and macOS 10.6 or higher, runs on 64-bit only, and comes in VST2, VST3, AAX, RTAS, and AU formats.

Summary:

The Burnley 73 produces an excellent sound. The input stages offer immediate gratification, giving us the option to give the sound more depth and drive before we even begin sculpting the tone with the EQ. Similarly to an authentic Neve, the Burnley 73 is highly musical, with the ability to apply significant gain increases while preserving the signal’s organic character.

12. IK Multimedia EQ 73

EQ73 is Ik Multimedia’s model of the Neve 1073, a legendary British equalizer and preamp.

This switching EQ can entirely change and improve the sound of just about any sound source. It reacts better on acoustic instruments, like drums, bass, and guitars, but you can use it on anything and quickly make it sound better.

The EQ 73 is based on one of the most renowned pieces of hardware in music recording history that was initially part of a large-format British mixing console. The unit was introduced as a standalone rackmount module in 1970 and quickly became a studio staple.

It was favored by recording engineers worldwide for its thick class-A sound, rich in harmonics and fullness. Besides its preamp section, it had a 3-band EQ that was also a critical factor in shaping the richness and sound of any track.

Key Features:

Tone:
It has a sweet, tube sound, but at the same time, anything that runs through grows into a significant, complete, and thick sound due to the unique harmonic distortion created by its transformers. The plugin does a proper job recreating its sound and even doing it better than other versions of this piece from other big companies, like UAD, which sound thinner and has a less musical reaction to the mid and low frequencies in comparison.
EQ:
The Neve preamp seems cleaner and dramatically affects the audio source. Like the Radiator, this plugin includes an equalizer. The difference is obviously in the number of bands, as the Radiator only has a two-band EQ, and the 1073 model has three. You must know that this EQ is extremely colorful because it is very noticeable when activated.

Compatibility:

It supports Windows seven or higher and macOS 10.10 or higher, runs on 64-bit only, and comes in VST2, VST3 AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

The plugin sounds incredibly close to the original hardware and reacts to signal similarly, adding harmonic distortion and even rescuing any given sound source, regardless. IK Multimedia wanted to make this right and recreated it to detail the preamp behavior, saturation, and preamp/EQ interaction that preceded the reputation of this remarkable piece of gear.

In contrast with Radiator, which shares the most similar characteristics, Radiator sounds comparably as good. However, if you take the treble knob too far, it’ll start bringing more saturation and distortion, whereas the EQ73 maintains a clean sound at all times.

13. Arturia Comp DIODE-609

If you listened to any album or hit song in the last 40 years, you’ve probably heard the distinctive sound of the Neve® 33609.

Arturia created a plugin for your DAW that you can easily use to recreate the iconic sound of its real-world counterpart.

The plugin allows you to experience one of the best compressors available on the market that shaped songs such as Californication by Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Instant crush by Daft Punk, Cornerstone by Arctic Monkeys, and many others.

The plugin also features an extensive FX library to explore, boasting many presets that could help you out when you are in a tight spot. These presets can help you tighten drums, adjust vocals, pan your back vocals, and perfect your mix overall. The signature transient sound it produces adds character to every sound you add.

Key Features:

Stereo Processing
Diode-609 features Mono and Stereo audio tweaking for the compressor and the built-in limiter. This feature allows you to decide exactly how wide or narrow you want your output signal to be. It also features linkable Left and Right channels that work on both sections. Stereo Processing is a great way to fine-tune your instruments in the mix, allowing you to create that crisp guitar sound in the middle of your listening field while also keeping the Ambiance in the background. This specific sound works wonders in any genre, as You can also use it to provide that bouncing effect to techno songs and an Orchestra Hall feeling to more mellow genres.
Advanced Sidechaining
Comp Diode-609 is the perfect sidechaining tool that allows you to fine-tune audio from an internal or external output. You can tweak the look-ahead control and your vocal space with a side-chain equalizer. To prepare for a side-chain transient, You can tweak up the look-ahead controls to 5ms, so you don’t lose that punch of the kick drum you used. It also allows you to have pumping elements in the mix, to create an outstanding dynamic track. This setting is perfect for kicks or snares, as it can give life to the drums, creating a sound identical to live drums playing in the same room with you.
Perfect Compression

DIODE-609 can add remarkable harmonic richness and tightness by using its built-in dual compression panels, perfect for bus channels. You can also use this feature on your drum channels and stereo master. You can fine-tune the attack options on the compressor, allowing you to choose if you want a slower or a faster attack for that perfect tight punch. A slower attack might be better for a smoother genre, like jazz, classical music, and blues, while the faster attack rate is best for Rock, Metal, Hip-Hop, and other aggressive genres.
Mid-side Processing
Mid-side processing allows you to fine-tune the stereo field to your liking. You can configure each side of your mix individually, allowing you to create a great dynamic that is truly unique. The plugin also allows you to separate the mid-field from the sides, which increases the depth of your compression configuration. Mid-field tweaking is often used to force the low end of the sample you are using to be in the center, frees up the sides of your mix, reducing muddiness in the final product.

Character & Sound:

The compressor provides a warm, crunchy sound that Producers have used for 40 years in the music industry. It can generally be applied to any instrument or vocal, as it adds a familiar character that is pleasant for your ears.

Compatibility:

Comp DIODE-609 is available for Windows 8.1 or higher and macOS 10.13 or higher, both 64-bit. It comes in VST2/3, AU, AAX, and NKS formats.

Summary:

Diode-609, made by Arturia, is the perfect compressor for people who want to take their mixes to the next level. The diode bridge working system allows for careful and precise tweaking of the Audio signal.

The available knobs and settings allow incredible results in all genres, specifically live music. Arturia designed it to be enjoyable and easy to use, featuring in-app tutorials and support for almost every DAW available on the market.

This plugin is an excellent addition for anyone new to audio production. Still, the more complex options allow for outstanding results if you take the time to learn how each knob operates. This is your plugin catalog will help you in future track-making and expand your mixing possibilities.

14. Brainworx bx_console AMEK 9099 (Rupert Neve Design)

The AMEK 9099 is a fantastic mixer based on the highly versatile Amek 9098i. With a limiter, equalizer, noise gate, and exciting GUI, the Channel Strip by Brainworx will create many vintage vibes for any production.

Achieve complete control of the mixing process with an incredibly versatile console emulator; bx_console AMEK 9099 will deliver all the controls needed for any production at your fingertips. AMEK 9099, apart from offering handy and intuitive knobs, also shines any signal with musicality. With massive lows, you can push the mixing plugin for pleasant, smooth changes in the signal.

Key Features:

Filters
The plugin has six controls regarding its filters. HPF On and LPF On work intuitively to enable the low and high-pass filters. HPF x 3 is a modern feature in the plugin that shifts the high-pass filter’s band by a factor of three. An LPF / 3 feature will turn the low-pass filter’s band by 1 / 3. The HPF works in the 20 Hz – 900 Hz range and has an 18 dB slope value. The LPF will present the same dB slope value as the HPF but operate in the 1.5 – 30 kHz range.
Dynamics
AMEK 9099 has a gate, limiter, and compression section. The gate invert is the most exciting feature in the gate segment, enabling you to hear the signal parts that the gate would attenuate. Apart from the standard gate controls, the plugin also has a Gate HPF and LPF interaction, activating additional filters on the gate and controlling the cutoff frequency. The Ambiance is a nice feature in the compression segment that will output the difference between the compressed and input signals.
EQ
The plugin features four bands to fill the HF, HMF, LMF, and LF ranges. An HF Sheen function is suitable for broadening the curve from the steep and widening the HF shelf. Both LMF and HMF can switch from Peak to Notch filtering. An exciting LF control is the LF Glow, which works the same way as the HF Sheen, but focuses on the lower range.
Master
You will have access to many exciting parameters in a mastering segment of the plugin. V gain is a virtual gain function that adds noise to the signal. A phase control will invert the signal’s polarity. You can also select between seventy-two different channels in the Console Channel Numbers. A nice fact is that each Channel has a unique character. You can also modify the spatial texture with the featured controls in Stereo Mode.

Compatibility:

This plugin is available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, 64-bit. It comes in VST 2/3, AU, and AAX formats.

Summary:

Brainworx bx_console AMEK 9099 is a complete console emulator that will provide any mix with full dynamics, EQ, and mastering controls. It has parameters for noise gates, compressors, limiters, and many EQ functions.

With an outstanding mastering performance, the plugin also has a role in stereo width and texture by allowing you to operate specific controls related to spatial functionality accurately.

5 Best FREE Neve Plugins:

1. Analog Obsession CHANNEL

Analog Obsession recreated an entire Neve channel strip and gave it away for free.

The plugin’s a digital model of a Neve 1073’s channel strip with a de-esser, preamp, four-band EQ, compressor, limiter, tape emulation, and an output knob.

Channel includes models for the Pre-72 mic pre, D-03 de-esser, an EQ-87 equalizer, C-64 on compression, and the T-01 tape saturation. Processing on this plugin follows the same order as mentioned.

Key Features:

Mic Preamp:
It’s surprisingly wide and fat on the low end, and it sounds better than the Scheps73 plugin by Waves Audio on a bass guitar. When making a side-by-side comparison, the difference was clear and audible to the point where Channel surpassed Waves’ plugin, adding more space and color.
D-03
You have two modes for sibilance control: bell & soft, which refers to the intensity and processing for the de-esser to behave. One thing to point out about this feature is that you don’t have control over its frequency, so you will need to bypass it and add a different tool if it doesn’t solve the problem. Either way, it does a reasonably good job of controlling those high frequencies.
EQ-81:
Based on the all-time British classic Neve 1081, it delivers a four-band EQ with pre-determined frequencies. On high frequencies, you’ll have from 3.3khz up to 15khz. Then, on the high mids, it hands over control from 1.5khz to 9.2 0Khz. Right next, we’ve got the low-mids from 220hz to 1200hz. You can use a Hi-Q feature on the high-mids to narrow that particular processing band.
Compressor/Limiter C-64 and L64:
These sections are based on the compressor/limiter 2264 with the difference that they’re entirely independent of each other, and both have their external side-chain. This is a very punchy compressor and very aggressive, too; it works very well on just about anything, and I suggest using this entire plugin on the mix bus and seeing results for yourself.

Compatibility:

Supports Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.14.6 or higher, runs on 64-bit only and comes in VST2, VST3, and AU formats

Summary:

Analog Obsession doesn’t care about doing things halfway, so they went all-in with this excellent freeware that can be easily compared and even outperform a two-hundred-buck plugin. It’s got a top-notch sound, the distortion and saturation are rich, you can use it on any sound source and have a great outcome from it, and as if it’s not enough, it has a low CPU usage.

On the downside, it seems to have some bugs, as crashes and volume dips on the input, but it doesn’t seem general and is still more than worth it as it only takes a free download and sounds remarkably good.

2. Analog Obsession BritBundle

This bundle emulates the sound of classic British audio gear responsible for many sensational records.

The BritBundle comes with three plugins: an EQ, a preamp, and a compressor. These are all based on the designs by Rupert Neve. And Analog Obsession’s emulations are undoubtedly some of the best, especially considering they are free. So, I highly recommend getting these to add analog tones to your recordings.

Key Features:

Britpressor
The Britpressor emulates a dynamics controller from a Neve console. It features a limiter (white) and a compressor (orange). The limiter has the following release modes: 50ms, 100ms, 200ms, 800ms, auto1, and auto2. Similarly, the compressor provides the following release settings: 100ms, 400ms, 800ms, 1500ms, auto1, and auto2.
Furthermore, the compressor provides six ratio settings ranging from 1.5:1 to 6:1. You can use the Mix knob to create NY/parallel compression effect. And lastly, it supports an external side-chain source with high, mid, and low-frequency controls for the side-chain input.
Brit
This plugin is a preamp modeled after the Neve 1272 mic/line preamp. It features a mic preamp switch, input gain, phase inversion, output gain, and a filter. The filters include a high-pass and a low-pass with a fixed frequency selector. The original design didn’t have a filter. Hence, you can power it off to emulate just the preamp system. Or, you can power off the preamp to utilize the filters alone.
BritChannel
The BritChannel is a plugin featuring two device emulations: the Neve 1073 EQ and the Neve 1272 mic/line preamp. The EQ is much loved for its pristine sound quality and classy air. It is ideal for EQing vocals, drums, bass, and other acoustic instruments. Similarly, adding the preamp system to digital instruments lends slight analog traits, making the instrument better suited for retro genres like Synthwave and Chillwave.

Compatibility:

The plugins are available for Windows 7 or higher and macOS 10.9 or higher, both 64-bit only. They come in VST 2/3 and AU formats.

Summary:

Rupert Neve’s designs have remained a standard in music technology for decades. And Analog Obsession’s plugins provide excellent emulations of the famous gear for free.

Furthermore, since the plugins utilize saturation, you can activate a 4x oversampling feature by clicking on the Analog Obsession logo on the user interface.

3. Analog Obsession BLEND EQ (API & NEVE in one plugin)

BLENDEQ by Analog Obsession is a plugin in which you get a combination of two legendary hardware equalizers.

It’s no secret that different hardware studio units have different sounds. It is what makes them unique and appropriate for a particular situation. This applies not only to preamps and compressors but also to equalizers. Fortunately, Analog Obsession has created a plugin to blend two flavors of gear.

The main thing about this plugin is that in addition to the usual EQ bands, you will also have blendable knobs. So you can either go for a specific one or get them 50/50. The same goes for the Input signal. So let’s talk about that in more detail.

Key Features:

4-Band EQ
In total, you get four EQ bands. Specifically, there are Low from 35 to 220 Hz, Mid controls from 0.36 to 7.2 kHz, and High from 5 to 15 kHz. You can boost or cut each of them with separate knobs.
Blendable Knobs
You will have a separate red Blend knob for each of the bands. So you can get the Neve sound on the left and the API sound on the right. Or leave them in the 50/50 position to get a unique sound.
Drive Your Input
As for the Input knob, there is also a mixing option. So, if you twist it to the left, you’ll get harmonics characteristic of Neve hardware, and vice versa, you will get an API flavor to the right. There is also a separate Output control.
Use The Filters
In addition to all of this, you will also have High and Low Pass Filters. These controls are located on both sides at the bottom of the plugin window. HPF goes from 20 to 650 hertz, and LPF from 8 to 20 kilohertz.

Compatibility:

Analog Obsession BLENDEQ is available for Windows 7 and macOS 10.9 or higher. It comes in VST/3 and AU formats.

Summary:

Analog Obsession BLENDEQ is an excellent plugin for getting the best out of two analog equalizer emulations. The N option will give you a smoother sound, and the A option will give you punchy transients. At first, the large number of knobs might confuse you, but once you figure out how to use them, everything becomes easy. The plugin is suitable for both individual instruments and program material.

4. Analog Obsession PreBOX

PreBox is a freeware that emulates 11 different analog preamps and tape saturation, including a Neve 1081, an SSL 9000, a Fairchild 692, and a V76.

It has an overall warm tube-like color with various textures to select the one that perfectly fits your source. If you use this plugin on a vocal, you’ll get a very subtle and musical analog sound as soon as you open it.

HPF emulates the V76 frequency response. It’s got a very intuitive user interface with a simple and optimized layout that keeps everything reachable in a comfortable way.

Key Features:

Overall quality:
PreBox is well crafted, and its emulations are remarkably accurate for free software. The graphic interface is self-explaining, and it’s generally a nice preamp to get a quick musical harmonic distortion on any source. However, if you crank up the input signal too hard, things sound particularly muddy or stuffy, which might not be desired.
V76 comparison:
You can tell the amount of work behind this plugin when comparing its V76 emulation to other paid versions like Neold’s or Arturia’s. PreBox’s harmonic distortion has more midrange information, different from both of its pairs, which are less aggressive in this area and more on the high-frequency side of the spectrum. It also brings forward some muddy low-mid information. Still, the high-pass filter makes a huge difference in tone with this plugin and gets it very close to both of his pairs, which is impressive.
Analog emulations:
As you may see, this plugin has ten analog preamp models and tape saturation. Among these models, you have a Hamptone Mic Pre, a very interesting SSL 9000, a REDD47, a Neve 1081, an Alembic F2B, an Ampex AM-10, which is terrific if you want to add some distorted brittle, a lovely emulation and personal favorite Fairchild 692 and more.

Compatibility:

It supports Windows seven or higher and macOS 10.14.6 or higher, runs on 64-bit only, and comes in VST2, VST3, and AU formats.

Summary:

Analog obsession made this interesting preamp that doesn’t need to be too fancy, sounds impressive, and, most importantly, is free. The preamp emulations are relatively accurate and well-devised and add a unique color to the eleven steps.

The tape saturation responds very musically. I would recommend this plugin for guitars and pianos, and it works beautifully on a snare drum blindfolded.

5. Analog Obsession FRANK 2