Warm and Fat, Sound Familiar?
By Graeme Hague
19 August 2013
IK Multimedia has released a new version of its T-RackS plug-in host software, making this version 4.2, which brings 64 bit AAX compatibility and introduces a new plug-in – what IKM calls its “take” on the classic Neve 33609 stereo compressor/limiter (maybe a refreshing admission you can never really precisely imitate the real thing?). The Precision Compressor/Limiter is based on a classic 1970s solid-state compressor/limiter unit that’s still used in studios worldwide even after 40 years. The Precision model promises a warm, fat and thick sonic character, but isn’t overly aggressive even at higher compression ratios. The result is a transparent yet musical sound that doesn’t lose focus or detail, suitable for mastering, post-production or broadcast applications. The Precision Compressor/Limiter features two main sections, the Compressor and the Limiter. The Compressor section has a fixed attack time and the release time can be selected from 6 values, two of which are automatic. The Limiter features a switchable slow/fast attack setting, a fixed ratio and adjustable recovery time. The limited control has its benefits, allowing good results in a short amount of time. T-RackS components are available through IKM’s Custom Shop, which uses a slightly annoying system of credits rather than real money. The Precision Compressor/Limiter will cost you 100 credits. You can buy 120 credits for €79.99 which today equates to roughly US$105 or AUS$115, alternatively you can buy two separate bundles of credits (say, 20 and 80) to give you the exact 100 credits you’ll need… you can kind of see what IKM is trying to do with the credit system. Everything can be demoed free for 72 hours and the basic T-RackS software is available free anyway at www.ikmultimedia.com
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