Along with their collection of high-end consoles, outboard gear and control surfaces, SSL have been building up quite the range of software effects and processors. The latest addition to the ever-expanding line-up is GateVerb, which as its name suggests, is dedicated to creating gated reverb effects.
The top half of GateVerb’s GUI is kitted out with the sort of parameters you’d expect to see in a reverb plug-in, with a central Time dial joined by Size and Density controls, along with Colour and Retro options that make it possible to dial in a variety of vintage-inspired tones. Something a little more modern, though, is the inclusion of Freeze and Kill buttons that make it possible to create — and instantly stop — infinite reverb effects, and there’s the option to synchronise the Pre-Delay control with the tempo of the host DAW.
The plug-in’s Gate section houses Trigger and Hold parameters that facilitate a wide range of ducking and side-chaining effects. An Advanced Settings panel provides some more in-depth control over the section’s behaviour, offering adjustable attack and release times as well as the option to choose between internal or external side-chain signals. There’s also the option of applying the gate to the reverb tail, the feedback path or both at once, as well as leaving it off entirely so that the effect can be customised using automation.
Compatibility
GateVerb is supported on PCs running Windows 10 and above, and Macs running macOS 11 or higher. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
GateVerb is available now, priced at $99.99£95.98 including VAT. It is also included in SSL/Slate Digital’s Complete Access plug-in subscription package, or via their Rent To Own plan. A 14-day trial version is available for those who wish to audition the plug-in before making a purchase.
