14 Best Compressor VST Plugins: Subtle to Aggressive (2024)

The world of audio production revolves around dynamics, and when it comes to controlling those dynamics, compressors are the unrivaled champions. Whether you’re looking to add punch to your drums, tame the peaks of a vocal, or simply glue your mix together, a reliable compressor is your go-to tool. But with the sheer volume of compressor VST plugins available today, how do you pick the right one for your needs?

Our guide dives deep into the realm of compressor VST plugins, dissecting the intricacies of each to bring you the most comprehensive list for 2023. From vintage emulations that harken back to analog days to cutting-edge digital designs that push the envelope, we’ve covered the breadth and depth of what’s available. Whether you’re a budding producer seeking your first compressor or a seasoned audio engineer on the hunt for something fresh, our list has something for everyone.

But before we dive in, let’s remember why compressors are so crucial. They don’t just control dynamics; they shape the character, tone, and feel of a track. The right compressor can be the difference between a flat, lifeless mix and a vibrant, pulsing masterpiece. So, let’s explore the best compressor VST plugins that will elevate your mixes to the next level.

FET Compressor Plugins:

UAD 1176 Collection

The Iconic Powerhouse: A Compressor That Defined An Era

Overview:

Universally recognized as the go-to compressor for countless hit records, the 1176 has been a staple in professional studios for more than five decades. Its ultra-fast attack time and signature tone have made it an invaluable tool for shaping sounds. UAD’s 1176 Classic Limiter Collection isn’t a mere emulation; it captures the nuances and quirks of three distinct units, giving users an unparalleled sonic arsenal.

The collection features the Rev A “Bluestripe,” revered for its aggressive character, the Rev E “Blackface” which is smoother and slightly more versatile, and the rare 1176AE, a special edition with expanded functionality. These variations provide users with a unique palette of sonic possibilities, from the subtle leveling of vocals to the pronounced smack on drums.

The famed “All Buttons In” mode, a quirky accident turned legendary feature, remains intact in this collection. This mode produces a gritty, aggressive compression that’s unparalleled and instantly recognizable.

UAD’s attention to detail is on full display here. Beyond the meticulous emulation, the plugin interface is designed to mimic the original units, complete with precise VU metering and vintage aesthetics. For modern workflows, they’ve also included parallel compression capabilities, allowing for easy blending of the compressed and dry signals.

Final Thoughts:

The UAD 1176 Classic Limiter Collection offers an authentic dive into the past, merging vintage charm with contemporary precision. It’s more than a tool; it’s a piece of music history on your screen. If you’re seeking the legendary power of the 1176 with the flexibility of the digital realm, this collection is an indispensable addition to your studio. Dive into the classic sound that has shaped generations of music.

Slate Digital FG-Stress

Harnessing the Power of Vintage Compression in the Digital Age

Overview:

Delving deep into the annals of music production history, the Distressor by Empirical Labs stands out as one of the most sought-after analog compressors. Slate Digital, with its reputation for immaculately recreating classic gear in the digital realm, brought this legendary sound to the digital workstations with FG-Stress.

What sets the FG-Stress apart is its uncanny ability to emulate the intricate nuances of the Distressor. Whether it’s the warm saturation of a gentle squeeze or the aggressive tonal shaping from pushing it hard, this plugin captures it all. It’s this versatility that makes it suitable for any genre, be it the delicate dynamics of vocal tracks or the robust needs of drum buses.

The user interface, akin to the original hardware, is intuitive. It allows producers and engineers to dial in their desired sound with precision. The added advantage of being in a digital format means that recall is instant, a significant perk in today’s fast-paced production environments.

For many professionals, FG-Stress has become their go-to compressor for its reliability and sonic fidelity. It embodies the vintage warmth that’s often sought after, while also integrating seamlessly into modern digital workflows.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re in pursuit of that classic analog compressor sound without the hefty price tag and want the convenience of a plugin, the FG-Stress by Slate Digital is a worthy contender. It’s not just a homage to the past but a bridge to the future of digital music production. Don’t miss out on adding this iconic sound to your plugin arsenal.

Optical Compressor Plugins:

Slate Digital FG-2A

Masterful Emulation of a Timeless Compressor

Overview:

The LA-2A Leveling Amplifier, an optical compressor, has been a staple in professional studios for decades due to its unique character and unparalleled musicality. Slate Digital’s FG-2A is a meticulous digital recreation of this legendary piece of equipment, allowing producers and engineers to infuse their digital tracks with that coveted analog warmth and vibe.

At its core, the FG-2A thrives in simplicity, just like its hardware counterpart. This simplicity, however, is deceptive, for underneath lies a powerful tool that can work wonders on any audio source. Especially renowned for its application on vocals, the FG-2A manages to smooth out dynamics while imparting a desirable, silky tone, ensuring the vocals sit perfectly in the mix.

Beyond vocals, the FG-2A shines on a myriad of sources. Its optical nature lends a certain smoothness to bass, giving it a rounded and controlled presence. When applied to instruments like guitars or keys, it imparts a gentle touch, ensuring they have a cohesive place in the overall sonic picture.

The user interface remains faithful to the original, with its signature knobs and VU meter, ensuring even those unfamiliar with the hardware can quickly grasp its workings.

Final Thoughts:

The Slate Digital FG-2A is not just an emulation; it’s a tribute to a piece of gear that has shaped countless classic records. For those chasing the warm, musical compression of the LA-2A without investing in the vintage hardware, the FG-2A stands as a formidable and worthy alternative. Its ease of use combined with its sonic prowess makes it an essential tool for any modern studio setup. Don’t let your mix miss out on the magic of the FG-2A.

Tube Compressor (or Valve) Plugins:

UAD Fairchild

Classic Analog Warmth in the Digital Realm

Overview:

Universally recognized as the holy grail of compressors, the Fairchild is nothing short of a legend in the world of audio engineering. With the UAD Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection, the unparalleled tonal quality and warmth of this revered analog device are brought straight into your DAW. With its precise modeling, the plugin captures the unique nonlinearities, tube-driven transformers, and acoustic behavior of the original hardware.

When you insert the UAD Fairchild on a track, you’re injecting a piece of music history into your project. The smooth knee and harmonic richness of the Fairchild make it ideal for vocals, adding depth and character that’s hard to achieve with other compressors. The Fairchild isn’t just about taming peaks; it’s about imparting a tonal signature that has graced countless classic recordings.

Beyond its sound, the UAD Fairchild offers a suite of features that make it adaptable to modern production workflows. The sidechain filtering allows for focused compression, letting the bass pass through without triggering the compressor. This makes it brilliant for drum buss or full mix applications. Moreover, the mix knob caters to the ever-popular parallel compression technique, giving you the best of both uncompressed and compressed worlds.

Whether you’re chasing the warmth of vintage records or seeking to add that magic touch to vocals or instruments, the UAD Fairchild is a must-have in your plugin arsenal. It’s not just a compressor; it’s a time machine that transports your music back to the golden age of analog recording.

Final Thoughts:

For those in pursuit of the elusive analog warmth in a digital setup, the UAD Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection is your ticket. Its authentic emulation promises not only dynamic control but also a vintage character that can transform your mix. Dive into the legacy of the Fairchild and let your tracks shine with classic brilliance. Don’t miss out on this iconic tool; elevate your productions with the Fairchild’s legendary charm.

Softube Tube-Tech Collection

Vintage Warmth Meets Modern Precision: Timeless Compression Tools

Overview:

Softube’s Tube-Tech Compressor Collection encapsulates the essence of the legendary Tube-Tech hardware units, revered by producers and engineers across the globe for their unique warm character and unparalleled sonic integrity. This collection delivers a fusion of vintage charm and state-of-the-art precision, ensuring that every track benefits from time-tested warmth and modern versatility.

Among the gems in this collection is the CL 1B, a true studio icon, famous for its transparent compression capabilities, making it a go-to for vocals in countless hit records. Its siblings, the ME 1B and PE 1C, are equal parts of the Tube-Tech legacy, offering distinct mid-range and presence adjustments, respectively, perfect for sculpting the sound further post-compression.

Beyond the technicalities, what makes this collection a staple in modern production is its unparalleled ability to breathe life into digital recordings. Whether you’re aiming for a gentle squeeze to even out dynamics or a tighter grip for punchy drums, the Tube-Tech Compressor Collection can deliver results that sound organic, lively, and three-dimensional.

Final Thoughts:

With the Softube Tube-Tech Compressor Collection, you get more than just plugins; you inherit a legacy of sound engineering excellence. For those yearning for the analog warmth of yesteryears combined with the precision and flexibility of the digital age, this collection is a dream come true. Dive into its rich tonal palette and let your mixes bask in vintage glory.

Soundtoys Devil-Loc Deluxe

Decimate Drums and Transfigure Tracks: Brutal Compression With Character

Overview:

When delicacy and subtlety take a backseat, Soundtoys’ Devil-Loc Deluxe comes roaring to the forefront. Inspired by the infamous Shure Level Loc from the ’60s, this beast of a plugin is all about characterful compression and delightful distortion. With its raw power and delectable saturation, Devil-Loc Deluxe is a favorite for annihilating drum tracks, adding weight to vocals, or introducing controlled chaos to any instrument.

The simplicity of the interface belies its potency. Two knobs, “Crush” and “Crunch,” dictate the amount of compression and distortion respectively. Yet, within this apparent simplicity lies a world of sonic carnage and character. Push them to extremes, and you’re in a realm where drums punch with visceral impact and instruments possess a biting edge.

While the basic version of Devil-Loc offers a wild ride, the Deluxe edition takes it a notch further with a mix knob for parallel processing, a tone control for shaping the output, and a slow-release time option. These additional controls provide users with a broader palette of sonic brutality and subtle coloring.

Final Thoughts:

The Soundtoys Devil-Loc Deluxe isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s a sonic beast that thrives on pushing boundaries and adding an audacious edge to tracks. If you’re looking to electrify your mixes with explosive character and unique flavor, Devil-Loc Deluxe stands ready to deliver. Unleash its might and let your tracks revel in its devilish charm.

VCA (Voltage-Controlled Amplifier) Compressor Plugins:

FabFilter Pro-C 2

Elevate Your Tracks with Precision Compression

Overview:

Compression in the world of music production is as much an art as it is a science. FabFilter’s Pro-C 2 stands as a testament to this blend, with its real-time animated level display that offers users an interactive and visual insight into the nuances of compression. This feature is not just about aesthetics—it provides an intuitive way to understand and interact with your music on a dynamic level.

With its diverse eight compression styles, whether you’re dialing in subtle bus compression or seeking to intensely squash a drum loop, Pro-C 2 has you covered. But this compressor isn’t just about the basics. Advanced features like comprehensive side-chain options and mid-side processing make it a powerhouse in the realm of dynamic control. Furthermore, its ability to support up to 7.1 surround sound showcases its advanced engineering, catering to those producing for more expansive sound systems.

The Pro-C 2’s zero-latency operation ensures it’s not left behind in live scenarios, delivering impeccable performance without any delay. Simply put, FabFilter’s commitment to quality, innovation, and user experience shines brightly with the Pro-C 2.

Final Thoughts:

The FabFilter Pro-C 2 isn’t just another compressor in a saturated market. It’s a tool crafted with precision, versatility, and the user in mind. For anyone—from industry professionals to bedroom producers—this compressor promises to elevate your tracks. Don’t just compress; make a statement with the Pro-C 2. Experience dynamic control like never before.

SSL Native Bus Compressor 2

The Heart of the SSL Sound: Dynamic Tightness for Your Mixes

Overview:

SSL, or Solid State Logic, is synonymous with top-tier recording studios worldwide, and their G Series Bus Compressor has been an essential tool for professionals, known for its ability to ‘glue’ a mix together. The SSL Native Bus Compressor 2 is a meticulously crafted emulation of this iconic hardware, giving users the classic SSL sound right in their DAW.

This software incarnation of the beloved bus compressor isn’t just a blind copy. While it maintains the integrity and warmth of the original, it also offers modern enhancements. The external side-chain source input and high-pass filter are game-changers, allowing producers and mixers to achieve compression effects that weren’t possible with the original hardware alone.

Applying the Bus Compressor 2 across a mix or a drum buss, users often comment on the magical cohesion and punch it brings. The mix becomes more robust, instruments stand out with clarity, and the overall result sounds polished and radio-ready.

Final Thoughts:

The SSL Native Bus Compressor 2 is more than just another emulation. It’s a testament to SSL’s commitment to bringing their legacy forward, combining the best of the old with the innovations of today. For any producer or engineer seeking to elevate their mixes with the unmistakable SSL cohesion and dynamism, this plugin is an indispensable tool. Add it to your arsenal and feel the difference it makes to your tracks.

Sonible smart:comp 2

Next-Gen Compression Tailored for Your Sound

Overview:

In the ever-evolving realm of audio production, the smart:comp 2 by Sonible stands out as a visionary piece of technology. By merging artificial intelligence with precision-engineered compression techniques, this plugin offers an experience that feels both futuristic and essential.

One of the most distinguishing features of smart:comp 2 is its AI-driven framework. With just a click, the plugin analyzes the audio input and computes a tailored compression setting. This not only speeds up the mixing process but ensures that each track retains its individuality while benefiting from optimal dynamic control.

Beyond its AI prowess, the spectral compression feature allows producers and engineers to master the tonal balance, ensuring that every element in a mix finds its right place. This is further visualized in the plugin’s intuitive interface, which gives a real-time insight into how compression is being applied across various frequencies.

Additionally, the side-chain functionality allows users to get even more creative, enabling the compression of a track based on the dynamics of another. This is perfect for achieving that professional punch and clarity in dense mixes.

Final Thoughts:

The Sonible smart:comp 2 is more than just a compressor—it’s an intelligent audio companion that understands your sound as deeply as you do. By leveraging state-of-the-art AI technology and sophisticated compression algorithms, it promises to transform your mixes with efficiency and precision. Dive into the future of compression, and let smart:comp 2 take your productions to unparalleled heights.

Digital Compressor Plugins:

Softube Weiss Compressor

Mastering-Grade Precision Meets Classic Warmth

Overview:

Softube’s Weiss Compressor is a testament to digital engineering mastery. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Weiss DS1-MK3, which has graced countless mastering studios, Softube brings this digital gem to the masses in a plugin format. Renowned for its transparent compression characteristics, the Weiss Compressor preserves the integrity of the audio while shaping dynamics with unparalleled finesse.

The challenge with many compressors lies in striking a balance between musicality and transparency. The Weiss Compressor meets this challenge head-on, with algorithms that retain every detail of the source material. Whether you’re gently taming dynamics on a master bus or adding punch to individual tracks, the Weiss delivers consistency and warmth without clouding the mix.

Beyond its audio prowess, the plugin boasts an intuitive user interface. A visual representation of the waveform, coupled with a gain reduction display, ensures you’re always informed of how the compressor affects your audio. The meticulous design ensures minimal distortion, even at aggressive settings, making it a favorite for professionals seeking clarity and depth.

Its versatility is another feather in its cap. While primarily recognized for mastering, the Weiss Compressor’s adaptability ensures it’s equally at home on individual tracks, sub-mixes, and, of course, the master bus.

Final Thoughts:

The Softube Weiss Compressor exemplifies digital audio perfection. A trusted tool for mastering engineers worldwide, its transition into the plugin realm brings its unmatched clarity and warmth to producers and engineers of all levels. If mastering-grade compression is what you seek, look no further than the Weiss Compressor. Experience sonic clarity and detail like never before.

FabFilter Pro-MB

Multiband Dynamics Unleashed for Utmost Precision

Overview:

Tackling the complexities of multiband compression, FabFilter Pro-MB stands out as a beacon of ingenuity in the audio plugins realm. It’s not just about compressing different frequency ranges; it’s about doing so with an intuitive ease that results in a rich and detailed sound, irrespective of the complexity of the source.

A significant pain point with many multiband compressors is the potential for phase issues. FabFilter addresses this with their dynamic phase processing. Instead of applying static phase shifts—which often lead to unwanted coloration—Pro-MB utilizes dynamic phase shifts, ensuring maximum clarity without the usual phase problems.

The interactive multiband display is nothing short of revolutionary, allowing users to easily create and adjust up to six bands. You can dial in precise crossover frequencies, adjust thresholds, and tweak settings with a hands-on visual feedback mechanism that’s both intuitive and informative. This multiband approach ensures that you’re always in control, sculpting your sound to perfection, band by band.

For those who like to see what’s happening under the hood, the comprehensive real-time frequency spectrum analyzer offers insights into every nuance of the sound. Paired with its flexible side-chain options and MIDI integration, Pro-MB caters to both novices and seasoned professionals alike.

Final Thoughts:

When it comes to multiband compression, few can rival the prowess and precision of FabFilter Pro-MB. Whether you’re taming unruly frequencies or sculpting a sound to perfection, this plugin offers a seamless blend of functionality and flexibility. With FabFilter Pro-MB in your audio arsenal, impeccable multiband dynamics are just a few clicks away.

Wavesfactory Trackspacer

Creating Space: The Secret Weapon for Clutter-Free Mixes

Overview:

Wavesfactory’s Trackspacer is less of a traditional compressor and more of a secret weapon for mixing engineers. Described by some as a “reverse EQ,” Trackspacer dynamically adjusts the frequencies of a track based on the content of another track you sidechain to it. This ensures that elements in a mix can coexist without clashing, a game-changer in dense arrangements.

The genius behind Trackspacer lies in its real-time 32-band EQ that dynamically responds to the incoming sidechain signal. Instead of merely ducking the volume of a track (like traditional sidechain compression), it surgically reduces specific frequency areas where the sidechained element is most dominant. This creates a transparent and clutter-free space in the mix, making it sound clearer and more polished.

The user interface of Trackspacer is refreshingly simple. With just a few knobs, you have the power to craft the perfect space for each instrument in your mix. Whether you’re trying to make vocals stand out against a busy backing track or ensuring that your bass and kick drum don’t clash, Trackspacer works wonders without the need for intricate setups or configurations.

Over time, Trackspacer has become an essential tool for producers across genres. Its unique approach to creating space in a mix—beyond what traditional EQs and compressors offer—makes it a truly indispensable tool in the digital audio workstation.

Final Thoughts:

For any producer or engineer looking to declutter their mixes and ensure each instrument shines in its rightful space, Wavesfactory’s Trackspacer is an invaluable tool. It’s a dynamic, innovative, and efficient solution to age-old mixing challenges. Give your tracks the breathing room they deserve and elevate your mixes with Trackspacer.

Versatile compressor plugins:

U-HE Presswerk

Dynamic Mastery: The Analog Touch in a Digital Age

Overview:

U-HE’s Presswerk isn’t just a compressor; it’s an homage to the golden age of analog, combined with the pristine accuracy of the digital realm. Designed to bridge the gap between vintage hardware units and contemporary software, Presswerk promises the best of both worlds, and it genuinely delivers.

One of Presswerk’s standout features is its diverse range of compression models. Whether you’re aiming for subtle bus compression or aggressive dynamic sculpting, Presswerk has a mode tailored to your needs. But where it truly shines is in its ability to imbue tracks with that sought-after analog warmth. This isn’t just a clean, clinical compressor – it’s a character-driven beast, capable of introducing rich harmonics and saturation that can make tracks feel alive.

The user interface is another point of pride for U-HE. While the plugin offers a deep level of customization for seasoned professionals, newcomers can easily get to grips with its controls. The detailed visual feedback allows users to see, in real-time, precisely how their audio is being affected, fostering a more intuitive mixing experience.

In a market saturated with compressors that often feel too similar, Presswerk stands out. Its analog warmth, combined with digital precision, means that it’s versatile enough to be used on individual tracks, busses, or even during the mastering process.

Final Thoughts:

U-HE’s Presswerk is a testament to the beauty of analog sound in a digital environment. By effortlessly merging the warmth of vintage gear with the precision of modern software, it offers producers and engineers a versatile tool that can enhance any mix. For those in pursuit of compression with character, Presswerk is a must-have in your plugin arsenal. Dive in and rediscover the magic of true dynamic mastery.

SSL Fusion HF Compressor

Harmonic Brilliance and Clarity: Elevate Your High Frequencies

Overview:

The SSL Fusion HF Compressor is another stellar offering from Solid State Logic, embodying their signature sound and build quality. Designed to target and refine the high-frequency spectrum of audio, this compressor is not your everyday dynamic tool. It provides an unparalleled ability to enhance the brilliance and sheen of any track, making it particularly coveted for mastering and high-end mixing tasks.

The plugin stands out for its meticulous modeling of SSL’s hardware circuitry, ensuring users get the authentic SSL sound. The Fusion HF Compressor delicately handles the top-end, allowing for both subtle and pronounced compression effects. Whether looking to add a shimmering quality to cymbals, emphasize the airiness of a vocal, or bring out the brilliance across a full mix, this tool delivers with precision and clarity.

Users of the Fusion HF Compressor often find their mixes sounding more polished and vibrant. Tracks handled with this compressor shine brighter, cutting through in dense mixes or standing out on radio and streaming platforms.

Final Thoughts:

The SSL Fusion HF Compressor is not just another compressor in the market. It’s a specialized tool dedicated to elevating the high-frequency spectrum of your tracks. If clarity, brilliance, and polish are what you’re after, especially in the upper range of your mixes, this is the tool to get. SSL’s legacy of top-quality audio tools continues with this unique offering, making it a must-have for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Elevate your sound, and let the highs shine like never before!

FAQ Buying Guide: Best Compressor VST Plugins

• What is the Main Purpose of a Compressor VST?

  Dynamic Control: Compressors reduce the dynamic range of audio signals, ensuring that the difference between the loudest and softest parts of a track is more controlled.

  Character & Tone: While all compressors control dynamics, they also impart unique tonal characteristics to the sound.

  Enhancing Transients: Some compressors can be used to accentuate or reduce the sharpness of audio transients, adding punch or smoothness.

• Analog Emulation vs. Digital Compressors: Which is Better?

  Classic Sound: Analog emulation compressors capture the characteristics of iconic hardware units, often adding warmth and coloration.

  Precision: Digital compressors offer precise control and may introduce less coloration, ideal for surgical dynamic processing.

  Workflow: Analog emulations often have fewer controls and a more hands-on feel, while digital units might offer more in-depth parameter adjustments.

• What's the Difference Between Multi-band and Single-band Compressors?

  Frequency Range: Single-band compressors affect the entire frequency spectrum equally. Multi-band compressors can compress different frequency ranges independently.

  Use Cases: Multi-band compression is useful for mastering or complex mixes where specific frequency ranges need isolated dynamic control.

• How Does Attack and Release Time Impact Sound?

  Attack: Determines how quickly the compressor responds once the input signal exceeds the threshold. Faster attack times can make a sound tighter, while slower times let transients pass through.

  Release: Dictates how long it takes for the compressor to stop compressing after the input signal falls below the threshold.

• Why Do Some Compressors Have a "Knee" Control?

  Compression Onset: The ‘knee’ controls how abruptly compression begins. A “hard knee” applies compression suddenly, while a “soft knee” results in a more gradual onset.

• Is Tube Compression Different from Solid State or FET Compression?

  Tonal Coloration: Tube compressors often add warmth and harmonic richness. FET (Field Effect Transistor) compressors are known for their aggressive sound, while solid-state units might be more transparent.

• How Important is Side-chain Compression?

  Specific Control: Side-chaining allows a compressor to be triggered by an external signal. This is commonly used in electronic music to “duck” a bassline behind a kick drum.

  Creative Effects: Beyond just “ducking”, side-chain compression can be used for creative rhythmic effects and more.

• Does the Ratio Setting Significantly Affect Compression?

  Degree of Compression: The ratio determines how much compression is applied once the signal surpasses the threshold. Higher ratios result in more significant compression.

• What Should I Look for in Terms of Usability and Interface?

  Clear Metering: Visual feedback on how much compression is being applied helps in making informed decisions.

  Presets: While it’s essential to understand the controls, a good set of presets can speed up the process, especially for beginners.

• How do Compressor VST Plugins Impact CPU Usage?

  Processing Power: Some high-end compressor plugins, especially those emulating analog gear, can be CPU-intensive.

  Efficiency: It’s essential to strike a balance between sound quality and CPU efficiency, especially when using multiple instances in a mix.