The latest addition to Fuse Audio Labs’ software collection continues the company’s theme of emulating vintage gear, but aims to offer something a little different that stands out from the crowd. Named VCE-118 Dynamic Range Enhancer, the new plug-in combines compression and expansion, and features a linear mode that can be used for creative dynamic effects.
The plug-in features a straightforward GUI, with a large central control providing users with compression ratios ranging from 1:1 to infinity:1, and expansion ratios between 1:1 and 2:1. There’s a Threshold control that does exactly as you’d expect, but along with its conventional compression and expansion behaviour, the plug-in can be set to a linear processing mode which will cause the entire signal range to be processed. Fuse Audio Labs say that the mode is ideal for those seeking out extreme dynamic effects, which can then be tamed using parallel processing, which is available directly within the plug-in thanks to a Mix control.
The processor is based on early VCA designs, and will deliver the sort of compression associated with classic units such as the DBX 160. Thanks to the linear option it promises to deliver rather more than your average compressor, though, and is said to be capable of producing results more akin to gates and transient processors.
Compatibility
VCE-118 is supported on PCs running Windows 7 or above, and Macs running macOS 10.12 and higher. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
VCE-118 is available now, and is being offered for an introductory price of $59 until 29 April 2024, after which it will cost $59.
