Sender Spike SN01-G: A Classic Compressor for Modern Mixes
Introducing the SN01-G by Sender Spike – a dynamic compression plugin inspired by two iconic VCA bass compressors that have become legends in recording studios in the UK and the USA. This plugin doesn’t just imitate vintage equipment; it offers a modern take on the classic sound, providing flexibility and efficiency for a wide variety of tasks in your mix.
Developed with Linked Feed-Forward topology, the SN01-G is a versatile tool that excels at both “gluing” buses, giving the mix integrity and punch, and detailed processing of individual channels. One of the key advantages of the plugin is its low CPU consumption (ASIO/CPU), allowing it to be used even in large projects without significantly burdening the system.
Flexible Settings for Precise Control
SN01-G provides a full set of standard controls that allow you to precisely shape the dynamics of your audio signal:
- Threshold: Adjustable over a wide range from +20 dB to -20 dB, allowing you to set the exact compression triggering level.
- Ratio: From soft compression 1:1 to limiter mode (infinity), providing control over how much the signal exceeding the threshold will be compressed.
- Gain: Up to +24 dB to compensate for volume loss after compression.
- Attack: The speed of the compressor’s response to the input signal, adjustable from ultra-fast 0.03 ms to slower 30 ms.
- Release: The speed at which the compressor returns to its original state, adjustable from 50 ms to 2 seconds.
Unique Features of the SN01-G
In addition to the standard parameters, the SN01-G stands out with a number of special features that significantly expand its application:
- Adjustable Knee: The plugin allows you to fine-tune the knee width in the range of 0-24 dB and its strength. This allows you to transition from a hard knee (0 dB) to a very soft one, providing more transparent and musical compression, ideal for buses or instruments where smooth triggering is needed.
- Internal Side-chain Filters: The presence of two optional filters for the internal side chain allows the compressor to react only to certain frequency ranges of the signal, which opens up possibilities for de-essing, softening bass during full mix compression, etc.
- “Push” Effect: This optional function is designed for more extreme forms of compression, adding character and aggressiveness to the sound.
- Dry/Wet Control (Parallel Compression): The built-in dry/processed signal control makes parallel compression extremely easy, allowing you to preserve the natural dynamics of the signal while adding density and sustain.
Modern Implementation of Classics Without Saturation
An important feature of the SN01-G is the absence of saturation modeling. The plugin focuses exclusively on dynamic processing, providing clean and accurate compression that does not add unwanted harmonics or distortions. This makes it an ideal choice for situations where dynamic control is needed, rather than coloring the sound.
Sender Spike SN01-G is a powerful and flexible compressor that combines time-tested operating principles of classic VCA compressors with modern capabilities and high efficiency. It will become an indispensable tool in the arsenal of both a beginner and an experienced sound engineer or musician, allowing you to achieve a professional sound for your tracks.
Try the SN01-G to add that signature dynamic control to your mixes, inspired by legendary studio equipment.
