Finding the best compressor plugin for your projects can be hard. Here we compiled for you the best available compressor VST plugins, in both free and paid variants.
SSL Native X-ValveComp Compressor by Solid State Logic (Paid)
X-ValveComp is a fully-featured mono or stereo channel compressor with a full set of classic channel compressor controls and an added ‘valve’ emulation stage. The valve emulation stage sits after the compressor in the signal path and adds a variable degree of primarily 2nd order harmonic saturation and distortion that thickens and colours the sound.
Features
- Traditional compressor layout with threshold, ratio, knee, attack, release, and hold controls
- Engage the valve emulation stage for rich 2nd-order harmonics
- Use it in parallel, à la New York–style compression, for extra heft and weight
- Operate in Peak and RMS modes
- Includes sidechain architecture with highpass and lowpass filters
[ Click here to buy + more info ]
smart:comp Compressor by sonible (Paid)
smart:comp finds the parameters for well-balanced compression results in just a few seconds and ensures unparalleled transparency through frequency-selective processing.
- Tonal and dynamic balance with spectral compression
- Intelligent parametrization with a single click
- Sidechain mode with frequency-dependent ducking
The spectral compression is all about giving a track the best possible definition and maximum transparency. By continuously analyzing the input signal across more than 2000 bands, smart:comp acts like an intelligent, ultra-high-resolution multiband compressor that dynamically smoothes out tonal imbalances. Once you experience its power, you wouldn’t want to miss it.
Features
- Balance makes the difference: Getting the Best Out of Your Track
- Speed and Precision – Powered by A.I: Intelligent Compression Parametrization in Seconds
- A Smooth Mix: Give your Sidechain Signal the Space it Needs
[ Click here to buy + more info ]
SSL Native X-Comp Compressor by Solid State Logic (Paid)
X-Comp is a sophisticated and extremely versatile stereo compressor that cuts through the mass of freeware and bundled plug-ins available with genuinely professional features, results and interface. The audio performance, specifications, analysis tools and depth of control offered by X-Comp are exemplary.
Features
- Flexible dynamics processing for classic and modern compression styles
- Mastering-grade audio fidelity
- Excels at subtle dynamics-shaping and smashed, brickwall-style limiting
- Dual symmetrical knee design for detailed compression shaping
- Advanced sidechain architecture for ducking, pumping, and de-essing
- Intuitive interface with click-and-drag controls
- MIDI compatibility for real-time parameter manipulation
[ Click here to buy + more info ]
I Heart NY Compressor by Baby Audio (Paid)
Parallel compression – also known as ‘New York compression’ – is an essential technique for creating more powerful mixes. But it can be a hassle to deal with the extra routing when you’re in the creative zone.
Baby Audio have made a plugin that does the hard work for you — with a fat and punchy flavour.
Features
- Parallel bus hosted internally for an intuitive workflow.
- Unique & adaptive compression algorithm.
- Compatible with all major DAWs on Mac and PC.
[ Click here to buy + more info ]
OptoRED Compressor by Tone Empire (Paid)
OptoRED is a transparent Optical Attenuator (compressor) based on the classic American unit used on countless hit records. This is part of the new Enhanced Classics series.
This optical compressor has a built-in side chain circuit, A Low pass filter, automatic gain, wet/dry mix, and other features. This allows it to go beyond the original intent of just being suitable for vocals and bass. OptoRED kills on Drums, Synths, Percussion, and both Electronic & Acoustic instruments.
Features
- Parallel bus hosted internally for an intuitive workflow.
- Unique & adaptive compression algorithm.
- Compatible with all major DAWs on Mac and PC.
[ Click here to buy + more info ]
Rough Rider 3 Compressor by Audio Damage (Free)
Rough Rider is one of the most popular dynamics processors on the planet, with well over a half a million downloads over its decade-plus lifespan, and is in heavy daily use by producers the world over. With Rough Rider 3, Audio Damage have expanded the original to include an external sidechain input, the ability to turn off the built-in “warming” filter (the FULL BANDWIDTH button), and much more accurate metering.
[ Click here to download + more info ]
ComBear Compressor by W.A. Production (Free)
ComBear is an EXTREMELY powerful and incredibly dynamic Parallel Compression effect plugin that brings an amazing sound and feel to Drums, Synth, Vocals and anything else you can thank of! This plugin is going to change the game and sound the EDM Industry.
[ Click here to download + more info ]
“Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission.”