Brainworx have announced the launch of bx_glue, a new compressor plug-in that aims to combine the much-loved sound of classic VCA compressors with the flexibility of modern multi-band processors.
The top of the GUI is dedicated to the usual suspects, with Ratio, Threshold, Attack and Release settings placed either side of a central display screen — programme-dependent release times are facilitated by an Auto button. As the plug-in is capable of independently compressing two bands, the central screen provides a Crossover control that determines the frequency at which the incoming audio is split for independent processing. A Bank Link parameter sets the degree to which gain reduction is linked between the two bands, with 0% allowing for completely independent settings and 100% applying the same processing to each; Band Tilt then adjusts the relative levels between the two bands, making it possible to balance high- and low-frequency content after the compression stage. There’s also a global Mix control which allows for instant parallel compression.
Much of the processor’s versatility is provided by a Tone section, which claims to be able to replicate the sonic character of just about any VCA compressor with a ratio of up to 10:1. An XL control determines the overall amount of saturation applied to the signal, while a THD toggle switch allows users to choose between Classic and Dirty modes, with the former replicating the effect of a slightly overdriven analogue circuit and the latter pushing the effect to a more extreme level. There’s also a choice of emulated transformer types (Nickel or Iron), and both options can also be bypassed entirely in order to keep things as clean as possible.
A Levels section then provides Input, Headroom and Output controls, the latter of which features an Auto mode that enables users to carry out level-matched A/B comparisons. A Sidechain section follows, offering a high-pass filter for the compressor’s side-chain, a solo function to audition the side-chain signal, and the ability to opt for an external signal either instead of, or as well as the internal one. Emphasis settings allow adjust the relative balance between low- and high-frequency compression using Tilt and Tub filter options, and finally, a Stereo section provides some stereo width control and the ability to sum low-frequency content (variable between 20 and 666 Hz) to mono.
Compatibility
bx_glue is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or 11, and Macs running macOS 11 and above. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
bx_glue is available now, and is currently (23 May 2024) being offered at an introductory price of $99, reduced from its full cost of $189.
