Plugin Name: dlM sixtyfive
Welcome, fellow musicians and sound engineers! Today, we dive into the world of warm analog sound with the dlM sixtyfive plugin from de la Mancha. This virtual dynamic processing unit is a real find for those seeking that vintage character and musical compression, inspired by the legendary dbx® 165A, a classic compressor from the 70s.
dlM sixtyfive doesn’t just emulate its famous predecessor; it also adds modern features, making it a versatile tool in your digital studio. Its unique combination of RMS detection and soft knee provides an incredibly smooth and natural response, ideal for processing vocals, acoustic instruments, or a whole mix.
Reviving a classic with new features
Inspired by the golden age of analog equipment, dlM sixtyfive brings a vintage spirit to the digital realm. The developers at de la Mancha have carefully recreated the non-linear characteristics and pleasant saturation that were the hallmark of the dbx 165A. This plugin adds character and color to your sound through a unique mix of harmonics, saturation, and slight noise, creating a sense of presence and depth.
Forget about harsh and unnatural transitions. Thanks to the soft knee, compression starts gradually, becoming more intense as the signal level increases. This makes dlM sixtyfive an ideal choice for “invisible” compression, which delicately smooths the dynamic range while preserving the vitality of the performance.
Key Features and Capabilities
- Vintage RMS compressor with soft knee.
- External sidechain for flexible processing.
- Parallel compression without phase distortions due to the built-in Bypass control.
- Non-linear attack and release curves for a unique character.
- Auto and Manual modes for controlling attack and release times, including extremely low values.
- Distortion reduction function for very short release times.
- Independent or linked stereo input detection.
- Plugin version for internal sidechain only.
- Optional hard limiter at the output to control peaks.
- Advanced metering: input, output, gain reduction, peak values with peak hold time setting.
- LED indication to display the compressor’s operation (above, within, or below the knee/threshold).
- Non-linear controls for precise parameter adjustment at low values.
- 18 diverse presets for quick start.
Sound and Applications
dlM sixtyfive is extremely versatile. It can be your main tool for:
- Vocal processing: Delicate smoothing for a professional, “polished” sound.
- Working with drums: From light bus gluing to brutal “pumping” of individual elements or the entire drum mix.
- Bass guitar: Providing density and uniformity for a powerful mix foundation.
- Acoustic instruments: Preserving natural dynamics with added warmth and presence.
- Overall bus (Mix Buss): Light compression to glue the mix elements and add an analog touch.
The built-in bypass allows for easy implementation of parallel compression, mixing the processed signal with the unprocessed to achieve maximum density and punch, which is a classic “New York compression” technique.
Technical Details and Controls
The dlM sixtyfive plugin is available in VST format for the Windows operating system (Win32). Its interface is intuitive, and the non-linear knobs allow for fine-tuning of compression parameters.
- Format: VST
- Operating System: Windows (Win32)
- Sidechain: Internal or external.
- Limiter: Optional hard.
- Metering: Detailed and informative, including peak values and their hold time.
dlM sixtyfive from de la Mancha is more than just a compressor. It’s a tool for giving your music character, warmth, and professional sound, inspired by time-tested analog classics but adapted to the needs of a modern digital studio. Try it and see how it can transform your tracks, adding that special vintage charm.
