Following on from the launch of their debut plug-in, Woodstock Audio have announced the release of a new free dynamics plug-in that combines professional-grade control with detailed visual feedback. Designed to eliminate the guesswork from mixing, Waveform Compressor features a dynamic waveform display that shows users exactly how their audio signal is being impacted by their compression settings.
The plug-in’s GUI houses a high-resolution visualiser display that depicts the incoming signal’s waveform both before and after compression, as well as displaying a dedicated gain reduction line. In another effort to inform users of the impact of their processing, Waveform Compressor features a Delta Solo function that makes it possible to monitor the difference between the input and output signals.
Key Features
- Flexible Compressor Controls: Offers a wide range of settings including Threshold, Ratio (1:1 – 24:1), and Knee (0 – 18dB), with attack times as fast as 20 microseconds.
- Dual Operating Modes: Switch between a Regular feedforward VCA-style design for versatility and an Optical mode that replicates classic ‘memory effect’ compression with an adaptive two-stage release.
- Delta Solo: a dedicated switch that allows users to hear only the difference (the Delta) in the audio, providing total clarity on how transients and frequencies are being affected.
- Detector HPF & External Side-Chain: Shape what the compressor hears with a high-pass filter on the detector circuit or route an external signal for advanced side-chaining.
- Optimised Performance: Engineered for low CPU load and featuring dynamic window resizing.
- Zero Barrier to Entry: Available at no cost with no license or activation required; simply download the installer and begin creating.
“I built Mastering.com on the principle of objectivity, and we’re taking the same approach with Woodstock Audio. We believe that, by giving engineers and producers the knowledge and understanding of technical processes, they can make more informed and objective decisions using any tools, and apply their skills wherever they find themselves.” - Rob Mayzes, Founder, Woodstock Audio
Compatibility
Waveform Compressor is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or above, and Macs running macOS 10.13 and higher. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Availability
Waveform Compressor is available now, and is free to download.
