HOFA’s latest release is a versatile saturation and distortion plug-in that aims to bring the character of analogue hardware into the digital studio. Created using state-of-the-art neural modelling technology, Colour Saturator promises to open up new possibilities for producers, mixers and sound designers, and will deliver everything from “silky harmonics and subtle warmth to aggressive distortion and extreme fuzz”.
First up is an input section that houses Dynamics and Tone controls, which as their names suggest, offer some shaping of the input signal’s dynamic range and tonal balance. They’re followed by a Wow & Flutter dial that introduces some tape-style artefacts, and a Tape Noise control that offers a variable amount of noise, crackle and hum. a Drive section follows, offering a selection of saturation modes (Tape, Tube, Desk, Solid State and Hybrid) that have been created using neural modelling algorithms.
Finally, the signal passes through HOFA’s BiasEQ processor, which presents users with a choice of nine-band graphic and fully parametric modes. By default, the innovative EQ processes both the pre- and post-distortion signal; the user’s EQ change is applied to the pre-distortion signal, and the plug-in counterbalances each boost or cut by placing an opposing EQ on the post-distortion signal. This behaviour can be unlinked if preferred, allowing users to fine-tune the amount of EQ applied at each stage.
Saturation Styles
The new plug-in includes detailed models of the following gear:
- Mic Preamps: Four iconic microphone preamps offer a mixture of unique harmonic behaviours.
- Tape: Three analogue tape machines with characteristic warmth and compression.
- Guitar & Bass Amps: Seven legendary tube amps offer tones ranging from crunchy to heavy.
- Pedals: Six popular stompboxes precisely modelled for authentic drive and fuzz sounds.
- Pedal & Amp Chains: Five curated combinations for ultimate distortion tones.
- Studio Classics: Four other hardware favourites with intriguing harmonic textures
- Legacy Algorithms: Five CPU-efficient modes from the HOFA System Saturator
Compatibility
Colour Saturator is supported on PCs running Windows 10 and above, and Macs running macOS 11 or higher. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Colour Saturator is available now, and is currently (9 December 2025) being offered at an introductory price of €99, reduced from its full cost of €129.
