Quagliardi Pro Audio has released a free early access / beta version of BoomBlender, a compressor plugin for macOS and Windows in VST3, AU and AAX plugin formats. It will be available globally in Spring 2025.
Here's what they say (about the full version - the Lite version has some limitations):
In the digital domain, a plugin simplicity doesn't mean lack of power; and BoomBlender by Quagliardi Pro Audio is a perfect example.
Inspired by the BOOM setting of the renowned Quagliardi 576 FET Compressor, this plugin features a not-so-minimalist "one knob" design that blends the amount of compression and other processes applied. With this dry/wet approach, BoomBlender provides a professional, yet intuitive, sound shaping package.
501+THD
To emulate the whole Quagliardi channel strip experience, BoomBlender includes three THD flavours that were modeled using machine learning technology, accurately emulating the harmonic distortion behavior of the Quagliardi 501+ Preamp. These three modes allow you to decide how much distortion is introduced to the dry signal just before the compression.
Style
Four specifically tailored compression styles, make decisions a breeze. Whether leveling a vocal, fattening a bass track or parallel-crushing drums, you're covered. In conjunction with the dry/wet knob, you won't hesitate trying them on any type of signal.
Mid / Side Mode
In addition to working in mono and stereo, BoomBlender includes a Mid/Side matrix, opening up a whole world of sonic and creative possibilities. This tool allows for applying compression and/or distortion to the mid or side channel, providing a level of control over the spatiality of the mix, that is essential for the modern producer.
If you're looking for a powerful sound-shaping tool that simplifies the creative process without sacrificing depth or flexibility, and an innovative way to integrate compression, expansion, and harmonic distortion into your workflow, BoomBlender is a must-have.
