Plugin Alliance has launched the Shadow Hills OptoMax optical compressor plugin for Windows and Mac. The new software builds on the optical section of the original hardware design while adding digital-only functions for greater flexibility.
The OptoMax plugin extends a collaboration that previously produced the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor and its Class A variant. It uses sophisticated analog modeling to recreate the nuances of the hardware’s optical circuits and then adds controls that are only possible in the digital domain.
Users will find expanded Ratio and Speed parameters, enabling a wider range of compression responses. A dedicated Push mode engages limiter-style behavior with very fast timing, and a Tone control lets engineers shape the top end of the spectrum. The Air setting adds clarity to vocals and acoustic instruments, while Smooth reduces harshness at higher frequencies.
Signature transformer modes from the original mastering compressor are included. Engineers can switch among Nickel, Iron and Steel models to change saturation characteristics. Additional lower-panel controls—Harmonics, TX Drive and Headroom—allow precise shaping of harmonic content and overall drive.
OptoMax also offers advanced sidechain and parallel mix features. High-pass and bell filters help manage midrange buildup, and external sidechain input provides further routing options. The interface is fully resizable and includes an expandable lower section for quick access to deeper settings. A set of artist presets by Bryan Reilly of Scramble Shack Studios offers useful starting points for various mixing and mastering tasks.
- Expanded Ratio and Speed controls for versatile compression
- Push mode for limiter-style response
- Tone control with Air and Smooth options
- Three transformer modes with Harmonics, TX Drive and Headroom
- Advanced sidechain filtering and parallel mix functionality
- Resizable interface with expandable lower section
- Artist presets by Bryan Reilly
Shadow Hills OptoMax is available at a 54% discount through December 24. Owners of other Brainworx plugins can crossgrade for $49.
Click here to find out more about the Shadow Hills OptoMax optical compressor plugin by Plugin Alliance.
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