Elevate Your Sound with the Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp

Plugin Alliance's Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp delivers exceptional dynamic control and versatility for professional audio mastering, making it a top choice for sound engineers.
The Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp is a powerful, versatile compressor plugin used by professional audio engineers and producers worldwide. Based on the hardware model developed by Peter Reardon and Brainworx, this virtual version offers pristine, analog-style compression for mastering and mixing tracks.
The plugin features two unique compressor models in one powerful unit: a discrete solid-state VCA compressor and an optical compressor, each with distinct tonal characteristics. The VCA compressor provides a clean, transparent compression suitable for highly dynamic tracks, while the optical compressor adds warmth and color to the sound, perfect for smoothing out vocal and acoustic instrument tracks.
- The Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp also features:
- - Three selectable transformer modes for added tonal richness
- - Six ratio settings ranging from 1:1 to 8:1
- - A variable attack and release time control for ultimate flexibility
- - A sidechain high-pass filter for precise frequency control
The Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp provides users with a powerful set of tools to add depth, warmth, and character to their tracks while maintaining ultimate control over their sound.
Overview
Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp is a Commercial software in the category Audio & Multimedia developed by Plugin Alliance.
The latest version of Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp is currently unknown. It was initially added to our database on 02/28/2023.
Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp runs on the following operating systems: Windows.
Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp has not been rated by our users yet.
Pros
- Offers precise control over compression parameters like ratio, attack, release, and threshold
- Provides a wide range of harmonic distortion options to add character and warmth to the audio
- Features a sidechain filter to tailor the compression response to specific frequency ranges
- Includes a sidechain external key input for advanced routing possibilities
- Allows for M/S (mid-side) processing for more detailed stereo manipulation
Cons
- Can be complex for beginners due to the vast array of controls and options
- High price point compared to similar mastering compressors
- Heavy CPU usage, especially when running multiple instances
FAQ
What is the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp?
The Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp is a software emulation of the hardware mastering compressor produced by Shadow Hills Industries.
What is the purpose of the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp?
The purpose of this plugin is to provide high-quality compression and dynamic processing for mastering purposes.
What features does the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp offer?
It offers two compression circuits (Opto and Discrete), selectable feed-forward/feed-back operation, sidechain filters, and a variety of controls to shape the sound.
Is the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp suitable for mixing?
While primarily designed for mastering, it can be used during mixing if desired. However, it may be more commonly used in a mastering context.
What are the advantages of using the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp over other compressors?
The Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp is known for its transparency, versatility, and ability to add perceived loudness without sacrificing dynamics. Its modeling accuracy makes it a popular choice among professionals.
What are the system requirements for the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp?
The specific system requirements can vary depending on the host software, but generally speaking, it is recommended to have a modern computer with a decent amount of RAM and a compatible operating system.
Can I try the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp before purchasing?
Yes, Plugin Alliance offers a fully functional 14-day trial of the Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp, allowing you to test it out and see if it meets your needs before making a purchase.
Is the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp available for both macOS and Windows?
Yes, the plugin is available for both macOS and Windows operating systems, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of setups.
Can I use the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp in my favorite DAW?
Yes, the plugin is designed to work as a VST, Audio Units, or AAX plugin, making it compatible with popular digital audio workstations (DAWs).
Where can I purchase the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp?
You can purchase the Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Comp directly from the Plugin Alliance website or through authorized Plugin Alliance dealers.

David Fischer
I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.
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