YELLOW is a tube compressor and saturator designed to recreate the musical behavior of classic analog tube processors through a new generation of hybrid approach.
Powered by Acustica Audio’s NOVA architecture, it faithfully reproduces the nonlinear response and tonal complexity of real analog circuits.
Available in VST3, AAX, and AU formats for macOS and Windows.
The revolutionary NOVA preamp stage
NOVA (Neural Optimized Volterra Audio) is Acustica Audio’s hybrid architecture and the core of YELLOW’s preamp stage. By combining Acustica’s proprietary Vectorial Volterra Kernels-based technology with advanced neural networks modeling, NOVA captures both the structural behavior and the complex nonlinear response of real tube hardware.
This adaptive interaction allows the processor to react naturally to incoming signal levels, delivering richer harmonics, smoother saturation, and a more convincing analog response.
How the Two Models Work Together
NOVA does not switch between two different models depending on signal level. Instead, it combines them so that both operate simultaneously.
At lower signal levels, the Volterra component preserves the precise frequency and phase response of the original hardware, ensuring tonal accuracy and stability. As the signal is driven harder, the neural model progressively contributes to the behavior of the circuit, reproducing the richer saturation and complex nonlinearities that emerge in real analog gear.
The result is a system where structural accuracy and expressive saturation coexist - delivering deep harmonic character while maintaining the spectral balance of the original hardware.
The video below takes a closer look at NOVA and how this new hybrid architecture works…
Key Features
- Tube Compression & Saturation – Musical compression with rich tube-style harmonic coloration.
- Three Analog Tube Unit Emulations – Three distinct tube processors offering different tonal and dynamic characters.
- NOVA Hybrid Technology – Combines Vectorial Volterra Kernels with WaveNet-style neural networks to capture both precise low-level behavior and complex nonlinear saturation.
- Flexible Workflow – Suitable for tracks, buses, and mastering chains.
- Factory Presets – A collection of professionally designed presets for quick results and creative inspiration.
YELLOW GUI
Three Analog Tube Models
YELLOW includes three distinct tube processor models inspired by different generations of analog hardware. Each unit combines tube preamplification and compression, offering a unique balance of harmonic coloration, dynamic response, and tonal character - from early vintage warmth to smoother modern control.
Selects one of the three available analog tube unit emulations:
- Vintage — BAOP6
- Classic — GE195
- Modern — VLTPX
Each unit combines tube preamplification and compression, offering a distinct tonal character. Their visual design follows the same evolution: from the worn vintage look to a cleaner, more refined modern aesthetic.
Technical information:
• Supported formats: VST3, AAX, and AU.
• Available sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz.
• Compatible with Windows 10 and 11.
• Compatible with macOS 10.15 (Catalina) to macOS Sonoma (version 14.x).
• Native Apple Silicon support (Rosetta not supported).
Price and availability
YELLOW introductory price: €69 | (59% OFF, reg. price €169) until April 9, 2026 at 11:59 PM (CET)
Get YELLOW now!
The product is at an introductory period for the first four weeks after release or until the first official version is released; this implies that the product may receive improvements, changes, or fixes available through Aquarius Desktop updates.
Try our FREE 30-Day Trial
Note: YELLOW's trial version includes 44.1 - 48 - 88.2 - 96 kHz sample rates.
Please remember that trials expire 30 days after authorization, and we strongly recommend not using trial products in commercial sessions or any important project.
YELLOW user's manual
YELLOW webpage: https://www.acustica-audio.com/shop/products/YELLOW
