Slate Digital FG-116 FET Compressor Plugin Overview
The FG-116 Blue Series flawlessly captures the essence of two vintage “rev A” FET limiting amplifiers and introduces two modernized versions of the classic FET circuit. Equipped with both vintage and modern tones, along with ingenious features like hi-pass detection and a parallel mix knob, the Blue Series is an indispensable tool that can be seamlessly integrated throughout your mixes.
Vintage FET Limiting
VINTAGE CIRCUIT 1
Circuit 1 faithfully embodies the renowned “mid-forward” character that made the blue-striped FET compressors legendary. It imparts a captivating coloration, particularly in the upper midrange, lending a warm presence to vocals, bass, drums, and guitars. Compared to the Black 116, it exhibits softer top and bottom ends, while delivering more articulate transients due to the harmonic distortion in the midrange.
VINTAGE CIRCUIT 2
Circuit 2 draws inspiration from a refurbished “rev A” unit known for its distinct and musical sound. This model boasts significant low-end extension, smoother midrange, and highs compared to Circuit 1. It excels when applied to drum room mics, as well as vocals that crave a sense of grandeur without requiring the midrange emphasis of Circuit 1.
Modern FET Limiting
MODERN CIRCUIT 1
Circuit 1 features a slow attack that can work wonders on close drum mics, especially when set to the slowest attack and fastest release settings. Try it on a snare drum to enhance its punch while elongating the decay. On the same settings, bass guitars acquire a distinctive edgy sound, and reducing the release time tightens the overall response, which can be highly beneficial for kick drums.
MODERN CIRCUIT 2
Circuit 2 offers a more spacious and punchy low-end response, coupled with an overall smoother top-end. Engaging the hi-pass filter yields incredible results on drum busses, and even full mixes greatly benefit from this musical compressor. Astonishingly, with the Blue Modern, employing the slowest attack, fastest release, and hi-pass filter engaged, it becomes feasible to use it on full mixes. Apply a compression of approximately 10dB, then dial back the mix knob to around 25% to infuse the mix with remarkable energy and excitement.
Parallel Compression The FG-116 Blue Series Compressors simplify the complexities of parallel compression techniques by introducing a Mix control. By applying heavy compression while reducing the mix to 25%, you can enhance the punch of your drum tracks without overwhelming them with excessive compression. The hi-pass filter enables the compressor to disregard low frequencies, thereby preserving the impact of the lower end while still exerting control over the dynamics.
