Signal Processors

Theres no shortage of software guitar-amp simulators around, but Magix claim that their new Vandal has what it takes to stand out from the crowd.

Universal Audios latest plug-in, based on Manley Labs classic Massive Passive EQ, is being hailed as the best emulation yet of a hardware unit. So how would it fare when we pitted it against the real thing?

A selection of audio files comparing the Manley Massive Passive EQ hardware with the Universal Audio Massive Passive plug-in.

What do you get if you cross an 1176 with a Distressor — and then throw in a few unique features for good measure? Enter the Dragon...

For the latest additions to their Native Effects bundle, Sound Toys have updated two vintage effects for the DAW age.

Fluxs innovative dynamics processor adapts to your programme material in a much more sophisticated way than conventional compressors. But how does it sound?

Better known for their high-end modular outboard processors, Tonelux have scaled their EQ up to full rack size. Does more space mean a better feature set?

When it comes to convincing simulation of guitar amps, cabinets, speakers and microphones, a few hardware manufacturers seem to be pushing the boundaries. Will the Torpedo blast the competition out of the water?

If you actually owned every amplifier, stomp box and microphone thats emulated in Amplitube 3, youd need a bigger house. But does more always equal better?

This compressor offers automatic time constants to help to keep things sounding natural, even with plenty of gain reduction. Is it a weapon worth adding to your arsenal of mix tools?

Mokafix Audio's Efflam Le Bivic is a man with a mission, and that mission is to create plug‑in versions of a huge range of...

Native Instruments guitar amp simulation software has sprouted a bunch of new amps and effects, along with more realistic cabinet and miking options, and is easier to use than ever before.

• Angular Momentum KickLab XXL • Softube Trident A-Range • SPL MicroPlugs

If you want a high-quality analogue EQ, youll probably own several preamps already — so why pay for unnecessary gain stages? Find out whether you should make an active decision to acquire this passive EQ...

If you like Izotopes Ozone mastering processor so much you want to use it at the mix, their new Alloy is the plug-in for you.

FabFilters powerful plug-in suite brings us advanced modulation possibilities, filters with multiple personalities, and plenty of overdrive.

Liquidsonics convolution reverb is not only highly affordable, but incorporates some innovative features too.

Until now, the biggest name in reverb came attached only to rackmount hardware. Finally, however, Lexicon have made their celebrated rooms, halls and plates available in plug-in format.

Sherman have teamed up with Rodec to bring us more of their own special brand of filter mayhem.

If youre in the market for a high-quality restoration package, there is no shortage of contenders. Sonnoxs trio of plug-ins offers some new and unusual features and a friendly interface.

Hell-bent on achieving truly demonic distortion, we put Evol Audios oddball processor through its paces.