HOFA-Plugins have announced the launch of a new plug-in designed to automatically apply ducking to the output of other processors or DAW channels. System Ducker is capable of hosting third-party plug-ins, and can be used to keep the likes of delay and reverb from overwhelming dry signals in a mix, as well as offering a simple way for podcasters and content creators to lower background audio automatically when their voice channels are live.
The company say that the new plug-in excels in two key applications. The first is enhancing intelligibility by automatically adjusting the level of effects in response to the input signal. System Ducker can host third-party plug-ins, and provides users with Attack, Hold, Release and Lookahead settings that allow them to fine-tune how it responds to incoming signals. The second application is applying ducking to background music in response to a voiceover — something that’ll be welcomed by podcasters, streamers and content creators. To achieve this, the plug-in can be inserted on the channel containing the background audio while the voiceover channel is routed to System Ducker’s external side-chain input
Key Features
- Flexible Ducking Controls: Adjustable Attack, Hold, Release and Lookahead settings provide precise control.
- Ducked Chain For Effects: Delays, reverbs and other effects can be applied directly within the ducked chain for automatic level management.
- External Side-chain Input: Automatic attenuation of music when voiceover signals are detected.
- Invert Mode: Optional inverted mode for unique and creative sound-design opportunities.
An instance of System Ducker with HOFA’s DelayPro plug-in inserted.
Compatibility
System Ducker is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or later, and Macs running macOS 10.13 and above. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
System Ducker is available now, and is currently (14 July 2025) being offered at an introductory price of €30, reduced from its full cost of €40.
