Iron transformer

Iron Transformer is a saturation/distortion plugin that models magnetic hysteresis, the way iron cores in transformers respond to audio signals. Instead of emulating a specific piece of hardware, it simulates the underlying physics: how magnetic material "remembers" its state and resists change, creating that warm, gluey saturation people chase in iron transformers. It is built only for Linux, and only available in CLAP format.

Demo video: {See video at top of page}.

The parameters for the magnetic model can be controlled in the plugin (also automatable). The parameters can be adjusted to add some subtle character, or loud distortion.

The dM/dH graph on the right shows live how the magnetization curve is impacted by the parameters you've set. Its shape determines the character of the effect:

Wider curve = stronger hysteresis, more "memory" effect, thicker sound.

Larger surface area = more distortion, more harmonics generated.

Thin line near center = subtle, transparent saturation.

Sharper curves = harder saturation, more aggressive crunch.

This plugin works well to add character or warmth to a bunch of different instruments.

You can leave feedback in the reviews here or mail me at audio@btertoolen.eu.