Acustica Audio’s latest launch uses their Hyper technology and new Aria engine to deliver an enhanced version of their popular Amber 4 plug-in suite. Amber 4 Ultra provides faithful models of Class a gear including pair of EQs along with a compressor and preamp, all of which benefit from enhanced graphics and improved audio performance.
EQ
The two EQ plug-ins included in the suite come in the form of Amber 4 Ultra and Amber 4 Stereo Ultra. Each present a matching set of controls, with the Stereo variant equipped with an independent set for each channel. There are four bands present, each of which are equipped with frequency and gains controls; the low- and high-mid bands feature a width parameter, whilst the low- and high-frequency bands are kitted out with a control that makes it possible to shift between peak and shelf filter types.
Amber 4 Ultra features a continuous control that makes it possible to target mid, left/right and side signals, whereas Amber4 Stereo Ultra provides individual control over the left/mid and right/side channels. Acustica say that the former can be considered one of the most powerful, low-noise parametric EQs available in the digital domain, and promise that the latter represents of of the most musically transparent EQ options in their collection.
Compressor & Preamp
Amber 4 Comp Ultra then models a Class-A opto compressor unit, relying on the company’s Hyper technology to deliver a transparent dynamics processor. All of the parameters you’d expect to see on a compressor are present, along with useful additions such as side-chain filtering, variable stereo linking, a mid, left/right and side signal blend control and built-in parallel compression.
Amber 4 Pre Ultra then rounds of the collection with no fewer than eight emulations of Class a preamp designs. Both solid-state and valve-based units are present, all of which benefit from a simple set of controls that include input and output levels along with Preamp (gain) and Filter (high-pass).
Thanks to the new Aira engine, each of the plug-ins now support dynamic and real-time metering displays along with the company’s Anti-Aliasing algorithm, as well as boasting reduced CPU consumption compared to their predecessors.
Compatibility
Amber 4 Ultra is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or 11, and Macs running macOS 10.15 and higher. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Amber 4 Ultra is available now, and is being offered for an introductory price of €89 until 26 February 2024, after which it will cost €209.
