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What FD-N does and where it excels

Quick Start

Installation, loading, and first use

Layout, controls, and navigation

How audio moves through FD-N

Main Controls

Drive, mix, tone, model, phase

Input and output level monitoring

Factory presets and preset workflow

Starting points for common sources

System requirements and capabilities

Support

Updates, docs, and troubleshooting

01 — Overview

What is FD-N?

FD-N is a stereo saturation and tone-shaping plug-in designed for fast, musical gain staging. It combines input/output level control, analog-flavoured drive, tone shaping, selectable distortion models, and phase inversion in a single, streamlined interface.

Built for speed and clarity, FD-N is ideal when you want to add weight, density, edge, or polish without breaking the flow of a session. Use it as a subtle enhancer on vocals and instruments, or push it harder for creative colour.

Input / Output Gain

Precision gain staging before and after the saturation stage.

Mix Control

Blend dry and processed signal for subtle enhancement or parallel-style colour.

Tone Section

Low / High shaping with cutoff controls for broad tonal balance adjustments.

Distortion Models

Choose from model flavours such as UK, SSCB, and US.

⏻

Bypass / Phase / Link

Quick control over polarity, processing on/off, and channel gain linking.

FD-N main interface overview

Designed for quick decisions FD-N is meant to reward small moves. A few dB of drive, a touch of mix, and the right model setting can be enough to move a track from flat to finished.

02 — Quick Start

Getting Started

Load FD-N on a track, set input gain, choose a model, and use mix/output to match the source level.

Suggested First Pass

Insert FD-N on a track
Use it on vocals, bass, guitars, drums, synths, or the mix bus.
Set Input
Trim the incoming level so the processor receives a healthy signal without excessive clipping.
Choose a model
Pick UK, SSCB, or US depending on the colour you want.
Adjust Drive and Mix
Increase drive for more saturation, then blend with mix for subtlety or parallel character.
Match Output
Use the output fader so the bypassed and processed signal can be compared at similar loudness.

Best practice Level-match whenever you audition a new setting. If the processed version only sounds better because it is louder, you are not hearing the full picture.

03 — Interface

Interface Overview

FD-N uses a direct, modular layout that keeps important controls visible. The interface is built for fast dragging, quick comparisons, and minimal friction during mixing.

┌───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                                 F D - N                                      │
├──────────────┬──────────────┬──────────────────────┬─────────────────────────┤
│ INPUT / OUT  │   DRIVE      │        TONE          │   MODE / PHASE / LINK   │
│              │              │                      │                         │
│  IN  fader   │   [KNOB]     │  [LOW]   [HIGH]     │  [UK] [SSCB] [US]       │
│  OUT fader   │   mix        │  cutoff  cutoff     │  phase   bypass   link  │
│  meters      │              │                      │                         │
├──────────────┴──────────────┴──────────────────────┴─────────────────────────┤
│                          PRESET BROWSER / GUI OPTIONS                        │
└───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Interaction

Action	Behavior	Notes
Drag knobs	Continuous value changes	Useful for all tone and drive controls
Use mix	Blend dry and processed signal	Great for parallel colour and subtle enhancement
Toggle bypass	Disable processing	Use for instant A/B comparisons
Phase invert	Flip polarity	Helpful for alignment and creative experimentation

Tooltips and value readout Most controls include hover guidance and value feedback while you drag, helping you make precise adjustments quickly.

04 — Signal Flow

Signal Flow

FD-N is intentionally simple: gain staging first, tone and model shaping in the middle, output trim at the end.

DAW Send

Input

→

Gain

Input Fader

→

Tone

Low / High

→

Drive

Model Stage

→

Blend

Mix

→

Gain

Output Fader

→

DAW Return

Output

Signal flow reference

Keep the chain simple The strongest FD-N results usually come from a focused approach: control the input level, choose the model, shape the tone, and use the output fader to land the track exactly where it belongs in the mix.

05 — Main Controls

Main Controls

These are the controls you’ll use most often when shaping character and level.

Control	Range	Default	Description
Input Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Sets the level feeding the processor. Useful for driving the model harder or backing off for cleaner response.
Output Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Adjusts the final level leaving FD-N so you can level-match your mix decisions.
Drive	0 to 20 dB	0 dB	Increases saturation intensity and harmonic density.
Mix	0 to 100 %	100 %	Blends the dry and processed signal. Lower values are useful for parallel-style processing.
Low / High Tone	Contextual	Neutral	Shapes the tonal balance of the source before or around the saturation stage, depending on your selected workflow.
Distortion Model	`UK` / `SSCB` / `US`	Factory default	Selects the saturation flavour. Different models emphasize different harmonic structures and response curves.
Phase Invert	On / Off	Off	Inverts the polarity of the output signal.
Bypass	On / Off	Off	Removes FD-N processing while preserving current parameter state.
Link	On / Off	Off	Couples input and output gain movement to streamline gain staging.

Input / output control area

Drive and saturation control

Mix control

Tone / cutoff controls

Selectable distortion models

Model-specific shaping controls

Phase inversion control

Bypass control

Link control

06 — Metering

Metering

Keep an eye on levels as you push drive and tone. Metering helps you avoid accidental clipping and over-processing.

Meter	Position	Description
Input Meter	Left	Shows the incoming signal level after the input gain stage.
Output Meter	Right	Shows the final signal level leaving FD-N after processing and output gain.

Input / output meters

Watch the output It is easy to improve the tone of a track and accidentally increase its level. Always check the output meter and use the output fader to keep levels under control.

07 — Presets

Presets

FD-N includes a preset workflow for quick recall, comparison, and starting-point inspiration.

Factory Presets

Default Gentle Drive Warm Vocal Bass Glue Punchy Drum Bright Keys Edge Guitar Mix Bus Polish Parallel Colour

Preset browser and management

Use presets as references Presets are best treated as musical starting points. Load one, listen to what it is doing, and then adapt it to the source material instead of treating it as a fixed recipe.

Window Size and GUI Scaling

Use the GUI sizing options to adapt FD-N to your workflow. Larger scales can be helpful on high-resolution displays, while smaller scales make room for more windows on screen.

GUI scale / window size options

08 — Tips & Workflows

Tips & Workflows

A few practical places to start when you want useful results fast.

Vocals

Use a touch of drive, keep mix moderate, and use output trim to preserve intelligibility. Subtle harmonic support often works better than obvious distortion.

Bass

Try stronger input drive with restrained output trim. A stable low end can benefit from a little extra density and harmonically supported fundamentals.

Drums

Use model changes and mix control to add punch or grit. FD-N can make drum elements feel more focused without needing a heavy compressor.

Mix Bus

Keep the settings conservative. Small amounts of drive and gentle tonal shaping can add cohesion without flattening the mix.

Less is often more If you can clearly hear the effect, try backing it down a little. The best saturation is usually the kind you notice when you bypass it — not when you stare at it.

Common Starting Point

Goal	Suggested Approach
Clean enhancement	Low drive, mix below 50%, output level-matched
Warmth and density	Moderate drive, small low-end emphasis, gentle output trim
Creative coloration	Higher drive, model experimentation, lower mix for controllable intensity

09 — Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Version1.1.1

Plug-in FormatsAU · VST3 · AAX · Standalone

PlatformmacOS 10.13+

CPU ArchitectureUniversal (Intel + Apple Silicon)

Channel ConfigurationStereo (2-in / 2-out)

AutomationAll parameters automatable

Preset FormatXML (.xml)

LatencyZero added latency

LicensingTurboActivate

Editor SizeResizable GUI

Sample Rate Support44.1 kHz – 192 kHz

Internal Precision32-bit floating point

Tip for documentation and support Keep this guide alongside your manual PDF and screenshots folder so the website and downloadable documentation stay in sync.

10 — Support

Updates & Support

If you need help, start with the current manual, then use the website for updates and support.

Troubleshooting

Issue	Likely Cause	Fix
No audible change	Bypass is enabled or drive is too low	Disable bypass, raise drive, and level-match the output
Too loud / clipping	Input drive or output trim is too high	Lower input and/or output gain
Too much colour	Mix or drive is excessive	Reduce mix, then reduce drive
Polarity issues	Phase is inverted	Toggle phase and re-check the arrangement

Website version This page is intended for the website and mirrors the visual tone of the CStrip guide while keeping the FD-N product language and workflow accurate.

FD-N

admin — Mon, 04 May 2026 13:31:39 +0000

FD-N — User Guide v1.1.1 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio — Professional Audio Tools

FD-N

Saturation · Tone · Gain

Version

1.1.1

Platform

macOS · Windows

Formats

AU · VST3 · AAX · Standalone

Ultra-clean gain staging Saturation engine Tone shaping Preset workflow

Contents

Navigate this guide by section.

What FD-N does and where it excels

Quick Start

Installation, loading, and first use

Layout, controls, and navigation

How audio moves through FD-N

Main Controls

Drive, mix, tone, model, phase

Input and output level monitoring

Factory presets and preset workflow

Starting points for common sources

System requirements and capabilities

Support

Updates, docs, and troubleshooting

01 — Overview

What is FD-N?

Input / Output Gain

Precision gain staging before and after the saturation stage.

Mix Control

Blend dry and processed signal for subtle enhancement or parallel-style colour.

Tone Section

Low / High shaping with cutoff controls for broad tonal balance adjustments.

Distortion Models

Choose from model flavours such as UK, SSCB, and US.

⏻

Bypass / Phase / Link

Quick control over polarity, processing on/off, and channel gain linking.

FD-N main interface overview

Designed for quick decisions FD-N is meant to reward small moves. A few dB of drive, a touch of mix, and the right model setting can be enough to move a track from flat to finished.

02 — Quick Start

Getting Started

Load FD-N on a track, set input gain, choose a model, and use mix/output to match the source level.

Suggested First Pass

Insert FD-N on a track
Use it on vocals, bass, guitars, drums, synths, or the mix bus.
Set Input
Trim the incoming level so the processor receives a healthy signal without excessive clipping.
Choose a model
Pick UK, SSCB, or US depending on the colour you want.
Adjust Drive and Mix
Increase drive for more saturation, then blend with mix for subtlety or parallel character.
Match Output
Use the output fader so the bypassed and processed signal can be compared at similar loudness.

Best practice Level-match whenever you audition a new setting. If the processed version only sounds better because it is louder, you are not hearing the full picture.

03 — Interface

Interface Overview

FD-N uses a direct, modular layout that keeps important controls visible. The interface is built for fast dragging, quick comparisons, and minimal friction during mixing.

┌───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                                 F D - N                                      │
├──────────────┬──────────────┬──────────────────────┬─────────────────────────┤
│ INPUT / OUT  │   DRIVE      │        TONE          │   MODE / PHASE / LINK   │
│              │              │                      │                         │
│  IN  fader   │   [KNOB]     │  [LOW]   [HIGH]     │  [UK] [SSCB] [US]       │
│  OUT fader   │   mix        │  cutoff  cutoff     │  phase   bypass   link  │
│  meters      │              │                      │                         │
├──────────────┴──────────────┴──────────────────────┴─────────────────────────┤
│                          PRESET BROWSER / GUI OPTIONS                        │
└───────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Interaction

Action	Behavior	Notes
Drag knobs	Continuous value changes	Useful for all tone and drive controls
Use mix	Blend dry and processed signal	Great for parallel colour and subtle enhancement
Toggle bypass	Disable processing	Use for instant A/B comparisons
Phase invert	Flip polarity	Helpful for alignment and creative experimentation

Tooltips and value readout Most controls include hover guidance and value feedback while you drag, helping you make precise adjustments quickly.

04 — Signal Flow

Signal Flow

FD-N is intentionally simple: gain staging first, tone and model shaping in the middle, output trim at the end.

DAW Send

Input

→

Gain

Input Fader

→

Tone

Low / High

→

Drive

Model Stage

→

Blend

Mix

→

Gain

Output Fader

→

DAW Return

Output

Signal flow reference

05 — Main Controls

Main Controls

These are the controls you’ll use most often when shaping character and level.

Control	Range	Default	Description
Input Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Sets the level feeding the processor. Useful for driving the model harder or backing off for cleaner response.
Output Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Adjusts the final level leaving FD-N so you can level-match your mix decisions.
Drive	0 to 20 dB	0 dB	Increases saturation intensity and harmonic density.
Mix	0 to 100 %	100 %	Blends the dry and processed signal. Lower values are useful for parallel-style processing.
Low / High Tone	Contextual	Neutral	Shapes the tonal balance of the source before or around the saturation stage, depending on your selected workflow.
Distortion Model	`UK` / `SSCB` / `US`	Factory default	Selects the saturation flavour. Different models emphasize different harmonic structures and response curves.
Phase Invert	On / Off	Off	Inverts the polarity of the output signal.
Bypass	On / Off	Off	Removes FD-N processing while preserving current parameter state.
Link	On / Off	Off	Couples input and output gain movement to streamline gain staging.

Input / output control area

Drive and saturation control

Mix control

Tone / cutoff controls

Selectable distortion models

Model-specific shaping controls

Phase inversion control

Bypass control

Link control

06 — Metering

Metering

Keep an eye on levels as you push drive and tone. Metering helps you avoid accidental clipping and over-processing.

Meter	Position	Description
Input Meter	Left	Shows the incoming signal level after the input gain stage.
Output Meter	Right	Shows the final signal level leaving FD-N after processing and output gain.

Input / output meters

Watch the output It is easy to improve the tone of a track and accidentally increase its level. Always check the output meter and use the output fader to keep levels under control.

07 — Presets

Presets

FD-N includes a preset workflow for quick recall, comparison, and starting-point inspiration.

Factory Presets

Default Gentle Drive Warm Vocal Bass Glue Punchy Drum Bright Keys Edge Guitar Mix Bus Polish Parallel Colour

Preset browser and management

Window Size and GUI Scaling

Use the GUI sizing options to adapt FD-N to your workflow. Larger scales can be helpful on high-resolution displays, while smaller scales make room for more windows on screen.

GUI scale / window size options

08 — Tips & Workflows

Tips & Workflows

A few practical places to start when you want useful results fast.

Vocals

Use a touch of drive, keep mix moderate, and use output trim to preserve intelligibility. Subtle harmonic support often works better than obvious distortion.

Bass

Try stronger input drive with restrained output trim. A stable low end can benefit from a little extra density and harmonically supported fundamentals.

Drums

Use model changes and mix control to add punch or grit. FD-N can make drum elements feel more focused without needing a heavy compressor.

Mix Bus

Keep the settings conservative. Small amounts of drive and gentle tonal shaping can add cohesion without flattening the mix.

Less is often more If you can clearly hear the effect, try backing it down a little. The best saturation is usually the kind you notice when you bypass it — not when you stare at it.

Common Starting Point

Goal	Suggested Approach
Clean enhancement	Low drive, mix below 50%, output level-matched
Warmth and density	Moderate drive, small low-end emphasis, gentle output trim
Creative coloration	Higher drive, model experimentation, lower mix for controllable intensity

09 — Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Version1.1.1

Plug-in FormatsAU · VST3 · AAX · Standalone

PlatformmacOS 10.13+

CPU ArchitectureUniversal (Intel + Apple Silicon)

Channel ConfigurationStereo (2-in / 2-out)

AutomationAll parameters automatable

Preset FormatXML (.xml)

LatencyZero added latency

LicensingTurboActivate

Editor SizeResizable GUI

Sample Rate Support44.1 kHz – 192 kHz

Internal Precision32-bit floating point

Tip for documentation and support Keep this guide alongside your manual PDF and screenshots folder so the website and downloadable documentation stay in sync.

10 — Support

Updates & Support

If you need help, start with the current manual, then use the website for updates and support.

Troubleshooting

Issue	Likely Cause	Fix
No audible change	Bypass is enabled or drive is too low	Disable bypass, raise drive, and level-match the output
Too loud / clipping	Input drive or output trim is too high	Lower input and/or output gain
Too much colour	Mix or drive is excessive	Reduce mix, then reduce drive
Polarity issues	Phase is inverted	Toggle phase and re-check the arrangement

Website version This page is intended for the website and mirrors the visual tone of the CStrip guide while keeping the FD-N product language and workflow accurate.

FD-Baba

admin — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:38:17 +0000

Analog Saturation Engine
Experience true-to-life analog warmth with FD-Baba’s advanced saturation engine. Powered by precise Class-A tube preamp emulation, FD-Baba delivers beautifully dynamic harmonic distortion that gives your tracks depth and personality.

High and Low Shelf Filters
Shape your sound like never before with meticulously designed high and low-shelf EQ filters. These filters provide seamless gain and frequency manipulations while maintaining sonic transparency and quality, offering effortless tonal balancing.

Mix and Blend Control
Take advantage of FD-Baba’s intuitive blend control to find the perfect mix between raw audio and saturated sound. Achieve a cohesive, polished tone for any track in your mix.

Interactive Visual Feedback (Meters)
Stay in control of your sound with FD-Baba’s built-in input and output meter sources. Visualize changes in your audio with real-time responsiveness, ensuring precision at every step of the processing chain.

Advanced Preset Management
FD-Baba includes a robust Preset Manager for saving and organizing your unique sound configurations. Quickly switch between your favorite presets or explore new starting points to speed up your workflow.

Comprehensive Parameter Customization
Using an intuitive parameter tree system, FD-Baba offers deep customization of every aspect of its processing chain. Effortlessly fine-tune your sound to suit your exact needs with smooth, responsive controls.

Scalable, Elegant Interface
FD-Baba offers a clean, resizable interface optimized for both small and large screens. The thoughtfully designed UI, enhanced by user-preferred looks and feels, ensures an enjoyable and uninterrupted creative process.

Multi-Platform Support
Compatible with all major DAWs, FD-Baba is available in VST3, AU, and AAX formats, making it versatile and ready for whatever platform you work on. Designed to meet the demands of modern production environments.

Applications

Music Production: Add warmth, depth, and richness to your tracks in genres such as pop, rock, hip-hop, and more.
Mixing and Mastering: Perfect your final touch with subtle harmonic enhancements or bold saturated textures.
Post-Production: Shape vocals, dialogue, or sound effects with a vibrant analog atmosphere.

Why Choose FD-Baba?

Developed with the latest advancements in digital signal processing, stands out as a must-have tool for anyone seeking authentic analog characteristics in a convenient, efficient plugin. Its responsive performance, coupled with a feature-rich environment, ensures seamless integration into professional studio setups or home production environments. Trust to amplify inspiration and bring your creative visions to life.

Elevate your production workflow today with the FD-Baba Audio Plugin by Babelson Audio – where craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.

PuTec DEMO

admin — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 15:40:17 +0000

The Pultec EQP-1A emulates the legendary vintage outboard equalizer renowned for its smooth, musical EQ curves and versatile tone-shaping capabilities. Designed with precision and authenticity, it delivers the warmth and character of analog hardware with the flexibility of digital plugins.

PuTec - User Guide v1.0.1 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio - Professional Audio Tools

PuTec

EQP-WDF-1A Plug-in

Version

1.0.1

Platform

macOS / Windows

Formats

AU / VST3 / AAX / Standalone

Interface preview

User Guide - June 2026

Contents

Quick navigation for the PuTec user guide.

What PuTec is and what it does

Installation and Activation

Setup, licensing, and first launch

Main controls and navigation

Processing order inside PuTec

Controls and Parameters

All EQ, output, and utility controls

Workflow and Use Cases

Practical settings for common sources

Factory and user preset behavior

Metering and Gain Staging

Input/output level handling

Formats, ranges, and compatibility

Updates and Support

Where to check updates and get help

01 - Overview

What is PuTec?

PuTec is Babelson Audio's modern, low-latency digital recreation of the legendary Pultec program equalizer — the venerable analog hardware that shaped the sound of decades of professional recordings. PuTec faithfully recreates the classic program equalizer workflow and is designed for musical tone shaping on individual tracks and buses. It combines broad tonal moves, a signature high-frequency boost bandwidth control, and simple gain staging in one view.

Low Frequency Section

Selectable low frequency points with independent Boost and Atten controls for the classic low-end shaping behavior.

High Frequency Section

Separate high Boost and high Atten controls with independent frequency selectors.

High Boost Bandwidth

Adjusts the width/character of the high boost curve to move from broad to more focused top-end shaping.

Output and Utility

Output trim, bypass, oversampling options, metering, and integrated preset handling.

Note: PuTec processes stereo audio (2-in/2-out) and is intended for musical equalization rather than surgical correction.

02 - Installation and Activation

Getting Started

Install PuTec using your platform installer, then activate with your license account when prompted.

General Install Steps

Download the latest installer package for your platform.
Run the installer and choose plug-in formats required by your DAW (AU, VST3, AAX, Standalone).
Launch your DAW and rescan plug-ins if needed.
Insert PuTec on an audio track or bus.
Open the activation panel from the lock/settings icon if activation is required.

Tip: If the plug-in opens in trial mode, save your project normally. After activation, your existing project settings are retained.

7-Day Trial Version

PuTec includes a fully-featured 7-day trial period — no credit card required. All features and processing capabilities are available during the trial with no restrictions or watermarking.

Trial Details:

Duration: 7 calendar days from first launch
Features: Full access to all PuTec controls, presets, and processing
No limitations: Works in all supported DAWs and plug-in formats (AU, VST3, AAX, Standalone)
Upgrading: Purchase a license anytime before the trial expires to continue using PuTec beyond the 7-day period

Activation and Licensing

PuTec uses the Cynicos License Management system for trial tracking and license activation. On first launch, the plug-in will either begin the 7-day trial automatically or prompt you to enter an activation key if you already have a license.

Important: When your 7-day trial expires, PuTec will require a valid license key to continue operation. Purchase a license at cynicos.com or upgrade through the Cynicos License Center application.

Preset Folder Locations

PuTec stores user presets in your Documents folder. Based on current implementation, the path is:

~/Documents/Putec

User preset configuration file:

~/Documents/PuTec/UserPresets.txt

03 - Interface

Interface Overview

The interface follows a single-panel hardware-inspired layout. All core EQ controls are always visible, with no hidden pages required for day-to-day operation.

PuTec main interface layout.

Main Areas

Low section: Low Freq selector, Low Boost, Low Atten.
High section: High Boost Freq selector, High Boost, High Boost Q, High Atten Freq selector, High Atten.
Output section: Output trim control.
Global controls: bypass switch, oversampling selector, window size menu, presets panel.
Visual feedback: metering and status indicators.

Control Behavior

Knobs use vertical drag (up/down) for value changes.
Double-click a knob to reset to its default parameter value.
Most controls display popup values while editing.
Window size menu supports 100%, 125%, 150%, and 200% scaling.

04 - Signal Flow

Signal Flow

Understanding the fixed processing order helps with gain staging and tonal decisions.

Input

Low Section

High Section

Output Gain

Output

Note: Global bypass removes PuTec processing from the audio path while keeping the plug-in loaded in the session.

05 - Controls

Controls and Parameters

The table below summarizes parameter ranges and defaults currently exposed by the plug-in.

Control	Range / Options	Default	Description
Low Freq	20, 30, 60, 100 Hz	20 Hz	Selects the low frequency target for low-end boost/atten shaping.
Low Boost	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Increases low-frequency energy around the selected low frequency.
Low Atten	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Attenuates low-frequency energy in the low section.
High Boost Freq	3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 16 kHz	8 kHz	Selects the center/target frequency for high boost.
High Boost	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Applies high-frequency boost at the selected high boost frequency.
High Boost Q	0.0 to 10.0	5.0	Controls high boost bandwidth/shape character.
High Atten Freq	5, 10, 20 kHz	20 kHz	Selects the target frequency for high attenuation.
High Atten	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Applies high-frequency attenuation at the selected high atten frequency.
Output	-20.0 to +20.0 dB	0.0 dB	Final level trim after EQ processing.
Oversampling	x1, x2, x4, x8, x16	x2	Raises internal processing rate to reduce aliasing in non-linear stages.
Bypass	On / Off	Off	Disables plug-in processing and passes audio through.

Classic Low-End Interaction

The low Boost and low Atten controls can be used together to create the well-known broad low-end contour. This is especially useful for adding weight while preserving clarity.

Tip: Start with small moves (1.0 to 3.0) and level-match with Output before judging tonal changes.

06 - Workflow

Workflow and Use Cases

Use these settings as starting points, then adjust by ear to match your source.

Vocal Air and Clarity

High Boost Freq: 10-12 kHz
High Boost: 1.5 to 3.5
High Boost Q: 4.0 to 6.0
Optional High Atten Freq: 20 kHz, High Atten: 0.5 to 1.5

Bass Weight Without Mud

Low Freq: 30 or 60 Hz
Low Boost: 2.0 to 4.0
Low Atten: 1.0 to 2.5
Adjust Output down to keep loudness matched

Mix Bus Tone Polish

Low Boost: 0.5 to 1.5 (30 or 60 Hz)
High Boost: 0.5 to 1.5 (10 or 12 kHz)
High Boost Q around midpoint for smooth top-end lift
Use bypass toggling frequently for objective A/B checks

Warning: Broad boosts can increase perceived loudness quickly. Level-match with Output to avoid biased decisions.

07 - Presets

Presets

PuTec includes 20 factory presets for common instruments and starting points.

Default Vocal Male Vocal Female Rock Vocal Acoustic Bass Electric Bass Bass Synth Rock Bass Electric Guitar Rock Rythm Guitar Piano A Piano B Keyboard Strings Snare Tom Medium Tom Floor Hihat Ethno Drums Percussions

User Presets

Save custom presets from the preset component and organize them in your user preset folder:

~/Documents/Putec

Tip: Use factory presets as tonal templates, then adjust the selected frequency points first before changing gain amounts.

08 - Metering

Metering and Gain Staging

PuTec provides input and output level tracking to help you maintain clean gain structure.

Watch both input and output levels when pushing boost controls.
If output level rises significantly, reduce Output trim before comparing bypass states.
Use oversampling for cleaner behavior at stronger settings when CPU budget allows.

Note: Proper level matching is essential when evaluating broad EQ moves, especially on full mixes.

09 - Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Plug-in Name PuTec

Version 1.0.1

Formats AU, VST3, AAX, Standalone

Channel Configuration Stereo (2-in / 2-out)

Low Frequency Points 20, 30, 60, 100 Hz

High Boost Frequency Points 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 16 kHz

High Atten Frequency Points 5, 10, 20 kHz

Output Range -20 dB to +20 dB

Oversampling x1, x2, x4, x8, x16

License System Cynicos License Management

10 - Updates and Support

Updates and Support

PuTec offers multiple convenient pathways to check for updates, download new versions, and manage license activations through the Cynicos License Center (CLC) application and in-app menu options.

Cynicos License Center (CLC)

The dedicated Cynicos License Center application is your hub for license management, downloads, and updates:

Cynicos License Center — manage licenses, downloads, and updates in one place.

Check for Updates: See available versions and download latest installers for all formats.
License Activation: Manage your product licenses and activation keys.
Download History: Access previous versions and platform-specific builds.
Account Management: View your Cynicos account details and subscription status.

Note: The Cynicos License Center is the recommended way to stay updated and manage your PuTec license across multiple machines.

Checking for Updates

You can also check for updates directly without leaving your DAW:

Use the plug-in menu option: Check Update on website — opens your browser directly to the download page.
Or visit your account area: https://cynicos.com/my-account/

Support

Website https://www.cynicos.com

Developer Thomas Ceyhan / Babelson Audio

Tip: Keep a backup of your user preset folder before major updates if you rely on custom preset libraries.

PuTec

admin — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 14:37:44 +0000

PuTec - User Guide v1.0.1 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio - Professional Audio Tools

PuTec

EQP-WDF-1A Plug-in

Version

1.0.1

Platform

macOS / Windows

Formats

AU / VST3 / AAX / Standalone

Interface preview

User Guide - June 2026

Contents

Quick navigation for the PuTec user guide.

What PuTec is and what it does

Installation and Activation

Setup, licensing, and first launch

Main controls and navigation

Processing order inside PuTec

Controls and Parameters

All EQ, output, and utility controls

Workflow and Use Cases

Practical settings for common sources

Factory and user preset behavior

Metering and Gain Staging

Input/output level handling

Formats, ranges, and compatibility

Updates and Support

Where to check updates and get help

01 - Overview

What is PuTec?

Low Frequency Section

Selectable low frequency points with independent Boost and Atten controls for the classic low-end shaping behavior.

High Frequency Section

Separate high Boost and high Atten controls with independent frequency selectors.

High Boost Bandwidth

Adjusts the width/character of the high boost curve to move from broad to more focused top-end shaping.

Output and Utility

Output trim, bypass, oversampling options, metering, and integrated preset handling.

Note: PuTec processes stereo audio (2-in/2-out) and is intended for musical equalization rather than surgical correction.

02 - Installation and Activation

Getting Started

Install PuTec using your platform installer, then activate with your license account when prompted.

General Install Steps

Download the latest installer package for your platform.
Run the installer and choose plug-in formats required by your DAW (AU, VST3, AAX, Standalone).
Launch your DAW and rescan plug-ins if needed.
Insert PuTec on an audio track or bus.
Open the activation panel from the lock/settings icon if activation is required.

Tip: If the plug-in opens in trial mode, save your project normally. After activation, your existing project settings are retained.

7-Day Trial Version

PuTec includes a fully-featured 7-day trial period — no credit card required. All features and processing capabilities are available during the trial with no restrictions or watermarking.

Trial Details:

Duration: 7 calendar days from first launch
Features: Full access to all PuTec controls, presets, and processing
No limitations: Works in all supported DAWs and plug-in formats (AU, VST3, AAX, Standalone)
Upgrading: Purchase a license anytime before the trial expires to continue using PuTec beyond the 7-day period

Activation and Licensing

Important: When your 7-day trial expires, PuTec will require a valid license key to continue operation. Purchase a license at cynicos.com or upgrade through the Cynicos License Center application.

Preset Folder Locations

PuTec stores user presets in your Documents folder. Based on current implementation, the path is:

~/Documents/Putec

User preset configuration file:

~/Documents/PuTec/UserPresets.txt

03 - Interface

Interface Overview

The interface follows a single-panel hardware-inspired layout. All core EQ controls are always visible, with no hidden pages required for day-to-day operation.

PuTec main interface layout.

Main Areas

Low section: Low Freq selector, Low Boost, Low Atten.
High section: High Boost Freq selector, High Boost, High Boost Q, High Atten Freq selector, High Atten.
Output section: Output trim control.
Global controls: bypass switch, oversampling selector, window size menu, presets panel.
Visual feedback: metering and status indicators.

Control Behavior

Knobs use vertical drag (up/down) for value changes.
Double-click a knob to reset to its default parameter value.
Most controls display popup values while editing.
Window size menu supports 100%, 125%, 150%, and 200% scaling.

04 - Signal Flow

Signal Flow

Understanding the fixed processing order helps with gain staging and tonal decisions.

Input

Low Section

High Section

Output Gain

Output

Note: Global bypass removes PuTec processing from the audio path while keeping the plug-in loaded in the session.

05 - Controls

Controls and Parameters

The table below summarizes parameter ranges and defaults currently exposed by the plug-in.

Control	Range / Options	Default	Description
Low Freq	20, 30, 60, 100 Hz	20 Hz	Selects the low frequency target for low-end boost/atten shaping.
Low Boost	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Increases low-frequency energy around the selected low frequency.
Low Atten	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Attenuates low-frequency energy in the low section.
High Boost Freq	3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 16 kHz	8 kHz	Selects the center/target frequency for high boost.
High Boost	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Applies high-frequency boost at the selected high boost frequency.
High Boost Q	0.0 to 10.0	5.0	Controls high boost bandwidth/shape character.
High Atten Freq	5, 10, 20 kHz	20 kHz	Selects the target frequency for high attenuation.
High Atten	0.0 to 10.0	0.0	Applies high-frequency attenuation at the selected high atten frequency.
Output	-20.0 to +20.0 dB	0.0 dB	Final level trim after EQ processing.
Oversampling	x1, x2, x4, x8, x16	x2	Raises internal processing rate to reduce aliasing in non-linear stages.
Bypass	On / Off	Off	Disables plug-in processing and passes audio through.

Classic Low-End Interaction

The low Boost and low Atten controls can be used together to create the well-known broad low-end contour. This is especially useful for adding weight while preserving clarity.

Tip: Start with small moves (1.0 to 3.0) and level-match with Output before judging tonal changes.

06 - Workflow

Workflow and Use Cases

Use these settings as starting points, then adjust by ear to match your source.

Vocal Air and Clarity

High Boost Freq: 10-12 kHz
High Boost: 1.5 to 3.5
High Boost Q: 4.0 to 6.0
Optional High Atten Freq: 20 kHz, High Atten: 0.5 to 1.5

Bass Weight Without Mud

Low Freq: 30 or 60 Hz
Low Boost: 2.0 to 4.0
Low Atten: 1.0 to 2.5
Adjust Output down to keep loudness matched

Mix Bus Tone Polish

Low Boost: 0.5 to 1.5 (30 or 60 Hz)
High Boost: 0.5 to 1.5 (10 or 12 kHz)
High Boost Q around midpoint for smooth top-end lift
Use bypass toggling frequently for objective A/B checks

Warning: Broad boosts can increase perceived loudness quickly. Level-match with Output to avoid biased decisions.

07 - Presets

Presets

PuTec includes 20 factory presets for common instruments and starting points.

User Presets

Save custom presets from the preset component and organize them in your user preset folder:

~/Documents/Putec

Tip: Use factory presets as tonal templates, then adjust the selected frequency points first before changing gain amounts.

08 - Metering

Metering and Gain Staging

PuTec provides input and output level tracking to help you maintain clean gain structure.

Watch both input and output levels when pushing boost controls.
If output level rises significantly, reduce Output trim before comparing bypass states.
Use oversampling for cleaner behavior at stronger settings when CPU budget allows.

Note: Proper level matching is essential when evaluating broad EQ moves, especially on full mixes.

09 - Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Plug-in Name PuTec

Version 1.0.1

Formats AU, VST3, AAX, Standalone

Channel Configuration Stereo (2-in / 2-out)

Low Frequency Points 20, 30, 60, 100 Hz

High Boost Frequency Points 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 16 kHz

High Atten Frequency Points 5, 10, 20 kHz

Output Range -20 dB to +20 dB

Oversampling x1, x2, x4, x8, x16

License System Cynicos License Management

10 - Updates and Support

Updates and Support

PuTec offers multiple convenient pathways to check for updates, download new versions, and manage license activations through the Cynicos License Center (CLC) application and in-app menu options.

Cynicos License Center (CLC)

The dedicated Cynicos License Center application is your hub for license management, downloads, and updates:

Cynicos License Center — manage licenses, downloads, and updates in one place.

Check for Updates: See available versions and download latest installers for all formats.
License Activation: Manage your product licenses and activation keys.
Download History: Access previous versions and platform-specific builds.
Account Management: View your Cynicos account details and subscription status.

Note: The Cynicos License Center is the recommended way to stay updated and manage your PuTec license across multiple machines.

Checking for Updates

You can also check for updates directly without leaving your DAW:

Use the plug-in menu option: Check Update on website — opens your browser directly to the download page.
Or visit your account area: https://cynicos.com/my-account/

Support

Website https://www.cynicos.com

Developer Thomas Ceyhan / Babelson Audio

Tip: Keep a backup of your user preset folder before major updates if you rely on custom preset libraries.

Too-Loose DEMO

admin — Fri, 23 May 2025 08:33:14 +0000

A VCA Compressor

TooLoose is designed for the modern producer who demands flexibility without sacrificing quality. Its innovative features and precision controls give you total authority over your mix—allowing you to glue everything together or surgically tweak tracks for perfection.

TooLoose - User Guide v1.1.0 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio - Professional Audio Tools

TooLoose

VCA-Style Bus Compressor Plug-in

Version

1.1.0

Platform

macOS / Windows

Formats

AU / VST3 / AAX

TooLoose interface preview (Black skin)

User Guide - June 2026

Contents

Quick navigation for the TooLoose user guide.

What TooLoose is and where it fits

Installation and Activation

Setup, trial, licensing, and first launch

Main controls and panel layout

Internal processing order

Controls and Parameters

Parameter ranges and behavior

Workflow and Use Cases

Practical starting points

Skins and Visual Themes

All available color variants

Factory and user preset handling

Formats, routing, and ranges

Updates and Support

CLC, updates, and support links

01 - Overview

What is TooLoose?

TooLoose is a VCA-style dynamics processor inspired by the punch, glue, and workflow associated with classic SSL bus compressor style processing. It combines parallel compression via Mix, top-end enhancement via Air, and simple utility controls in a single panel for quick decision-making while mixing.

Mix Control

Blend dry and compressed signal for transparent parallel compression or stronger compression textures.

Air Control

Adds high-frequency brightness and presence to help sources cut through dense arrangements.

Timing Section

Attack (Speed) and Release (Recovery) shape transient response and gain recovery behavior.

Utility and Workflow

Auto makeup, bypass, preset management, window scaling, and color skin selection.

Note:TooLoose supports mono and stereo bus layouts depending on your host configuration, and it is especially useful on subgroup and mix-bus duties where VCA-style control is desired.

02 - Installation and Activation

Getting Started

Install TooLoose with the platform installer, launch from your DAW, then activate from the lock/settings panel if required.

General Install Steps

Download the latest installer package for your platform.
Run the installer and choose the formats required by your DAW.
Rescan plug-ins in your DAW if TooLoose does not appear immediately.
Insert TooLoose on an audio track, bus, or master channel.
Open the lock/settings icon to access activation and license details.

Tip:Project parameter states are retained after activation, so trial sessions continue seamlessly after licensing.

Trial and Licensing

TooLoose uses Cynicos License Management for activation and trial handling. Trial state and remaining time are displayed in the plug-in status area and license panel.

Important:When the trial period ends, a valid license key is required for continued operation.

User Preset Folder

User presets are stored in your Documents folder:

~/Documents/TooLoose

User preset configuration file:

~/Documents/TooLoose/UserPresets.txt

03 - Interface

Interface Overview

TooLoose uses a one-page interface so all essential controls remain visible while you work.

Main TooLoose panel (Blue skin).

Main Areas

Core tone/dynamics: Mix and Air knobs.
Timing controls: Speed (Attack) and Recovery (Release).
Utility buttons: Louder (Auto Makeup) and bypass.
Global controls: presets dropdown, skin selector, and resize menu (100%, 125%, 150%, 200%).
Status and metering: gain reduction meter and license/trial state label.

Control Behavior

Knobs use vertical drag for edits.
Double-click returns controls to default values.
Hover tooltips describe each control in-context.
Popup value displays are shown while editing most knobs.

04 - Signal Flow

Signal Flow

Understanding processing order helps with level-matching and predictable compression behavior.

Input

Compression Core

Mix Blend

Air

Output

Note:Bypass leaves the plug-in loaded but removes audio processing from the signal path.

05 - Controls

Controls and Parameters

The table below lists only the visible front-panel controls in TooLoose v1.1.0: the 4 knobs, the switches, and the meter.

Control	Range / Options	Default	Description
Mix	0% to 100%	0%	Dry/wet blend for parallel compression workflow.
Magic (Air)	0.0 to 18.0 dB	0.0 dB	Top-end enhancement for extra brightness and presence.
Speed (Attack)	0.0 to 100.0 ms	2.0 ms	How quickly compression engages after the signal crosses threshold.
Recovery (Release)	5.0 to 1500.0 ms	2.0 ms*	How quickly gain recovers after compression (*current project default state).
Bypass (Power)	On / Off	Off	Disables processing while keeping the plug-in loaded in the session.
VU / GR Meter	Visual meter	GR view	Displays gain reduction and helps level-match while adjusting compression.

Tip:Set Mix first, then tune Attack/Release, and level-match before deciding if the setting is actually better.

06 - Workflow

Workflow and Use Cases

Use these as starting points and adapt by ear.

Vocal Control With Air

Mix: 20% to 45%
Attack: 8 to 20 ms for natural consonants
Release: 80 to 220 ms
Air: +0.5 to +2.5 dB

Drum Bus Punch

Mix: 35% to 70%
Attack: 10 to 30 ms to keep initial transient snap
Release: 60 to 160 ms timed to groove
Enable Louder only if level drift slows decision-making

Mix Bus Glue (Subtle)

Mix: 10% to 30%
Attack: 20 to 40 ms
Release: 120 to 300 ms
Air: small moves only (+0.2 to +1.0 dB)

Warning:Compression can sound better simply because it is louder. Always level-match before finalizing settings.

07 - Skins

Skins and Visual Themes

TooLoose includes six visual skins selectable from the skin menu.

Black

Purpled

Blues

Grey

Orange

Red

08 - Presets

Presets

TooLoose includes a default factory preset and supports user preset save/load workflows via the built-in preset component.

User Presets

Save and organize user presets in:

~/Documents/TooLoose

Tip:Name presets by source + intent (for example: Vocal_Parallel_Airy) so recall stays fast in larger sessions.

09 - Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Plug-in NameTooLoose

Version1.1.0

FormatsAU, VST3, AAX

Channel ConfigurationMono or Stereo (host-dependent)

Window Scaling100%, 125%, 150%, 200%

SkinsBlack, Purpled, Blues, Grey, Orange, Red

License SystemCynicos License Management

User Preset Path~/Documents/TooLoose

10 - Updates and Support

Updates and Support

Use Cynicos License Center (CLC) to manage activations, view product downloads, and keep TooLoose up to date.

Cynicos License Center (CLC) for activation and updates.

Check updates: Download the latest installer builds.
Manage licenses: Activate and track product status.
Access downloads: View available installers and versions.

Websitehttps://www.cynicos.com

Account Areahttps://cynicos.com/my-account/

DeveloperThomas Ceyhan / Babelson Audio

Fatique DEMO

admin — Fri, 23 May 2025 08:31:58 +0000

This processor isn’t just a plugin-s your Mix Mastering Assistant, helping you deliver broadcast-ready sound with polish and precision every time. From dynamic sculpting, tonal shaping, safety measures, to bypass switches for comparison, this tool adapts to your working needs without compromise.

Fatique – User Guide v1.1.2 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio — Professional Audio Tools

Fatique

Analysis / Processor Plug-in

Version

1.1.2

Platform

macOS 10.13+ | Windows 10+

Formats

AU · VST3 · AAX

AU VST3 AAX Standalone

Contents

Navigate this guide by section.

What Fatique does

How audio moves through Fatique

Global Controls

Bypass, safety, input/output

Analysis & Metering

Spectrum, histogram, correlation

EQ Section

Bands, filter modes, bypass

Drive / Distortion

UK, SSCB, US models

Dynamics Processing

Compressor, opto, limiter

Server-hosted screenshots

Factory & user presets

Visual Guide

Practical starter settings

Keeping Fatique up to date

01 — Overview

What is Fatique?

Fatique is a comprehensive, professional-grade audio plug-in by Babelson Audio. It combines analysis, tone shaping, saturation, dynamics, and preset management in a single streamlined interface designed for fast mixing and sound design.

Use it to inspect a signal, refine tone, add harmonic character, and control dynamics without opening multiple plug-ins or breaking your workflow. The interface is built to feel like a modern channel strip: every module is visible, every control is close at hand, and every stage can be bypassed independently when you need a fast A/B.

Input & Output

Precision gain staging at the start and end of the chain.

Analysis

Spectrum, histogram, meters, and correlation feedback for confident mixing.

EQ

Four-band tone shaping with flexible filter behavior and quick bypass.

Drive & Dynamics

Multiple saturation models plus compressor, opto, and limiter style processing.

Presets

Factory and user preset management with quick recall and A/B style comparison.

Good Starting Point Begin with everything bypassed, confirm safe monitoring, then enable modules one by one. That keeps your ears protected and makes it easier to hear what each stage contributes.

02 — Installation & Activation

Getting Started

Fatique installs in minutes and includes a trial flow that can be activated from within the plug-in.

System Requirements

PlatformmacOS 10.13 or later | Windows 10+

ArchitectureIntel (x86_64) & Apple Silicon (arm64)

DAWAny AU, VST3, or AAX-compatible host

Memory4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended

Installation Steps

Install the plug-in
Run the installer package and choose the formats you want to install.
Scan your DAW
Rescan plug-ins if needed, then insert Fatique on a track or bus.
Check license status
Open the info / license panel and follow the activation or trial prompt.
Start working safely
Begin with conservative gain staging and bypassed modules.

Activation & Licensing

Fatique uses Cynicos License Management, including offline-capable activation options. License behavior may vary by build, but the workflow is designed to keep first launch simple and to make subsequent activations straightforward in studio environments.

Studio-Friendly Activation If your machine is not online, use the offline activation path from the license panel. That’s the best approach for isolated production systems and live rigs.

Trial / License Reminder If the trial expires, Fatique will require a valid license to continue working. Keep your purchase and activation details available for future reinstalls.

03 — Interface

Interface Overview

Fatique presents the core processing path in a horizontal layout with analysis and utility controls close to the modules they affect.

Main View

Primary full-interface reference from the server-hosted screenshot set.

General Controls

Knobs

Most rotary controls use vertical drag. Drag up to increase a value and down to decrease it. Hovering shows live value feedback, and double-clicking typically resets a parameter to its default.

Double-click — Reset to default value
Cmd + drag — Fine tuning mode on supported controls
Right-click — Some controls may expose numeric entry or contextual options

Bypass Buttons

Fatique’s bypass controls are designed for quick A/B comparisons. Use them to isolate the contribution of the EQ, drive, compressor, or processor-wide settings while the rest of the session continues to play.

Scaling and Layout

The interface is designed to stay readable at a range of window sizes. On supported hosts you can resize the plug-in window using the host’s normal UI controls or the plug-in title bar behavior.

04 — Signal Flow

Signal Flow

Understanding the order of processing helps you make better decisions when shaping a sound.

DAW Send

Input

→

Gain Staging

Input Gain

→

Tone

→

Saturation

Drive

→

Dynamics

Comp / Opto / Limiter

→

Utility

Output Gain

→

DAW Return

Output

Fixed Processing Order The chain is intended to behave predictably so your gain staging and tone decisions are easy to hear. Build the sound from left to right, then use output trim to restore level parity.

05 — Global Controls

Core Global Controls

These controls affect the overall behavior of the plug-in and should be checked first when something sounds off.

Control	Common ID / Label	Role	Notes
Safety	`protectYourEars`	Prevent overly loud monitoring	Use this as a safety layer when testing aggressive settings.
Mute	`mute`	Hard mute output	If you hear nothing, check this first.
Bypass	`bypass`	Main processing toggle	Useful for immediate A/B comparisons.
Bypass Effects	`allBypass`	Disable all processing modules	Handy for a clean reference state.
EQ Bypass	`EQBypass`	Bypass the EQ/filter section	Quickly compare tonal changes.

First-Insert Checklist Confirm that host bypass and plug-in bypass are both off, and make sure no safety or mute control is engaged unless you intentionally want silence.

06 — Analysis

Analysis & Metering

Fatique includes multiple feedback tools to help you understand what the signal is doing in real time. Use them to confirm input level, shape tone, and check the result of compression or limiting decisions.

Spectrum

Visualize frequency balance and quickly identify resonances, build-up, or missing energy.

Histogram

Helpful when you want a different perspective on level distribution and density.

Correlation

Monitor stereo relationship and phase behavior before committing to a wide mix decision.

Meter	Position	Description	Use
Input Meter	Left side	Shows the incoming signal level after gain staging.	Confirm safe headroom before enabling stronger processing.
Output Meter	Right side	Shows the final level exiting the plug-in.	Use this to keep level-matched A/B comparisons honest.
Correlation	Analysis area	Helps indicate stereo compatibility.	Watch this when widening or adding spatial effects.

Reading the meters The most useful workflow is to compare the processed signal against the bypassed reference at equal loudness. That way the meters guide your decisions without loudness bias.

07 — EQ

EQ Section

The EQ section is designed for quick tone shaping and corrective moves. Treat it as the first musical stage after gain staging, before you drive the signal harder or refine dynamics.

Band	Type	Role	Notes
Low	Shelf / filter	Sub and body control	Use it to clean up rumble or add weight.
Low-Mid	Bell	Boxiness / warmth shaping	Helpful for tightening vocals, guitars, and drums.
High-Mid	Bell	Presence / bite	Great for definition and articulation.
High	Shelf / air	Brightness / sparkle	Use subtle moves to avoid harshness.

EQ Workflow

Start with small moves
Make gentle changes first so the source still sounds natural.
Bypass to compare
Use the EQ bypass to make sure the change really helps the mix.
Revisit output level
After tonal changes, check that the output is still level-matched.

Always listen in context EQ decisions are easiest to judge against the rest of the arrangement rather than in solo.

08 — Drive

Drive / Distortion

Fatique’s Drive section provides a selection of saturation characters for adding weight, edge, or grit. Use it subtly for density or more aggressively for creative coloration.

Distortion Models

Model	Map	Character	Typical Use
UK	`SoftClip`	Smooth and forgiving	Great for gentle thickening.
SSCB	`FuzzAsym`	More aggressive and edgy	Good for harmonics and attitude.
US	`ArcTan`	Rounded and controlled	Useful for polished saturation and body.

Drive Workflow Set Input first, choose a model, dial in Drive, then use Mix if available to blend processed and dry signal. Finish by trimming Output so your bypassed and processed levels are comparable.

09 — Dynamics

Dynamics Processing

Fatique includes multiple dynamics flavors so you can choose the response that best suits the material. Whether you want tight control or a more musical leveling feel, keep the release and threshold in context with the source.

Compressor

General-purpose dynamics control for leveling and punch.

Opto

Smoother leveling behavior for vocals, bass, and sustained instruments.

Limiter

Peak-catching final stage to keep the output under control.

Practical Guidance

Goal	Approach	What to listen for
Leveling	Use the compressor or opto with moderate settings	Evenness without pumping
Peak control	Use the limiter near the end of the chain	Transient safety and stable output
Character	Increase drive before dynamics when you want more attitude	Extra harmonics and density

Dynamics-first or tone-first? For clean control, shape tone before compression. For creative coloration, try adding drive first and then compress the resulting harmonics.

10 — Presets

Presets

Fatique ships with factory starting points and supports user presets so you can recall preferred sounds quickly. Use them as creative templates rather than rigid rules.

Factory Presets

Default Clean Analysis Vocal Tame Bass Tighten Drum Punch Mix Bus Soft Color Drive Limiter Safe

Preset Management

Previous / Next preset navigation
Dropdown preset selection
Save and Save As
Copy State and Paste State
Open Preset Folder

Use presets as checkpoints After loading a preset, make small source-specific adjustments to EQ, drive, and dynamics so the sound fits the session rather than the other way around.

11 — Visual Guide

Server-Hosted Screenshots

These images link directly to the uploaded PNGs on the server so the web guide always points to the same asset location.

Full Interface

Main overall layout reference.

Create / Remove

Module creation and removal flow.

Replace Processor

Swapping a processing block or processor type.

Connect / Disconnect

Routing and chain linking interactions.

Processor Controls

Per-module controls and interactions.

Image naming The guide points at PNG versions of the uploaded assets. If your server export uses slightly different filenames, keep this section and swap only the file names in the URLs.

12 — Tips & Workflows

Tips & Workflows

Here are some practical starting points for common use cases.

Vocals

Use gentle EQ cleanup, light drive, moderate compression, and then a limiter only if peaks need protection.

Drums

Push drive a little harder, then use compression to keep transients exciting without uncontrolled peaks.

Bass

Use low-end control in the EQ, add some harmonics with drive, and let dynamics tighten the sustain.

Mix Bus

Keep the changes small. A subtle tonal shift and a small amount of glue can be more useful than obvious processing.

Suggested Workflow

Start neutral
Load a clean preset or begin from the default state.
Stage the level
Use input gain and output trim before pushing tone controls too far.
Shape tone
Use EQ to correct and enhance the source.
Choose the character
Add drive or dynamics depending on whether you want grit, density, or control.
Save the result
Store a user preset when the sound is ready for recall.

Keyboard Shortcuts / Actions

Action	Shortcut / Gesture
Reset a knob	`Double-click`
Fine adjust	`Cmd` + drag
A/B compare	Use bypass and preset compare tools
Toggle sections	Use the section bypass controls

13 — Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Version1.1.2

Plug-in FormatsAU · VST3 · AAX · Standalone

PlatformmacOS 10.13+ | Windows 10+

CPU ArchitectureUniversal (Intel + Apple Silicon)

Channel ConfigurationStereo (2-in / 2-out)

LatencyZero added latency

AutomationAll parameters fully automatable

Preset FormatXML (.xml)

LicensingCynicos License Management

Support FilesFactory preset / data bundle

Sample Rate Support44.1 kHz – 192 kHz

Bit Depth32-bit floating point internal

Supported DAWs

Fatique is designed to work in any host that supports AU, VST3, or AAX plug-ins.

Logic Pro Pro Tools Ableton Live Reaper Cubase / Nuendo Studio One GarageBand Bitwig Studio

14 — Updates & Support

Updates & Support

Keep the plug-in and its presets up to date to ensure consistent recall and compatibility.

Checking for Updates

Visit the account page or installer page provided by Babelson Audio to check for the latest build, then install over your existing version when an update is available.

Safe Updates A normal update should preserve your presets and general settings. After updating, open a known preset to verify everything recalls as expected.

Contact & Support

Websitecynicos.com

DeveloperThomas Ceyhan / Babelson Audio

Feedback Welcome Bug reports, feature requests, and workflow suggestions are always appreciated.

CStrip DEMO

admin — Fri, 23 May 2025 08:21:14 +0000

The Cstrip Audio Plugin is your all-in-one solution for professional-quality audio processing, tailored for mixing engineers and music producers. Featuring a cutting-edge design with seamless integration and precise control, Cstrip offers an advanced channel strip loaded with powerful functionality to elevate your sound.

CStrip – User Guide v1.1.1 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio — Professional Audio Tools

CStrip

Channel Strip Plug-in

Version

1.1.1

Platform

macOS · Windows

Formats

AU · VST3 · AAX

AU VST3 AAX Standalone

Contents

Navigate this guide by section.

What is CStrip?

How audio moves through CStrip

Input & Output Faders

Gain staging

Warmth — Analog Saturation

Triode Class-A saturation

4-Band Equalizer

Low, Low-Mid, High-Mid, High

Compressor

Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Knee, Mix

De-Esser

Cutoff, Threshold, Mix & Listen modes

Input, Output & GR meters

Factory presets & A/B comparison

Vocal, bass, drum & mix bus

Keeping CStrip up to date

01 — Overview

What is CStrip?

CStrip is a complete, professional-grade channel strip plug-in by Babelson Audio. Inspired by the legendary hardware console strips that shaped the sound of countless recordings, CStrip delivers every processing stage you need in a single, elegant interface.

From subtle gain staging to aggressive parallel compression, from silky high-frequency air boosts to surgical de-essing — CStrip keeps your signal chain clean, your DAW session organised, and your mixes moving forward.

Input & Output

Precision ±20 dB faders for gain staging before and after all processing.

Warmth

Triode Class-A analog saturation circuit that adds harmonic richness and musical grit.

4-Band EQ

Low shelf, Low-Mid bell (with Q), High-Mid bell (with Q), and High shelf. Full 20 Hz – 20 kHz coverage.

Compressor

Transparent to punchy. Full control over Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Knee, and Parallel Mix.

De-Esser

High-frequency sibilance control with Cutoff, Threshold, Mix, Listen, Filter, and Phase flip modes.

Factory Presets Included CStrip ships with 20 professionally crafted factory presets covering vocals, bass, guitars, drums, keys, and strings — each designed to give you an excellent starting point for any source material.

02 — Installation & Activation

Getting Started

CStrip installs in minutes and includes a 7-day free trial — no credit card required.

System Requirements

Platform macOS 10.13 or later · Windows 10 or later

Architecture Intel (x86_64) & Apple Silicon (arm64)

DAW Any AU, VST3, or AAX-compatible host

RAM 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)

Installation Steps

Download the installer
Download the CStrip installer for your platform (.pkg for macOS or .exe for Windows) from cynicos.com or your purchase confirmation email.
Run the installer
Double-click the installer file for your platform and follow the on-screen instructions. Choose which plug-in formats to install (AU, VST3, and/or AAX, depending on your system and DAW support).
Launch your DAW
Re-scan plug-ins in your DAW or simply add CStrip to a channel. On Logic Pro, AU plug-ins are discovered automatically.
Activate or start trial
On first launch, CStrip checks for a valid license. Click the key icon () in the top-right of the interface to enter an activation key, or click "Start 7-day trial" to begin evaluating without restrictions.

Activation & Licensing

CStrip uses Cynicos License Management for activation, trial handling, and license control. Sign in to your Cynicos account or enter your activation details when prompted to authorise the plug-in on your system.

License Management You can manage your product access, downloads, and available licenses from your Cynicos account page. This keeps your activations and installers organised in one place.

Trial Period The 7-day trial starts on first launch and counts calendar days. When the trial expires, CStrip will require a license key to continue working. Purchase at cynicos.com.

03 — Interface

Interface Overview

CStrip presents all processing modules in a single, horizontal channel-strip layout — just like a hardware console. Every control is immediately accessible with no hidden menus or pages.

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                            C S T R I P  — Babelson Audio                           │
├──────────┬───────────┬──────────────────────────────────┬─────────────┬────────────┤
│  INPUT   │  WARMTH   │           EQUALIZER              │ COMPRESSOR  │  DE-ESSER  │
│          │           │                                  │             │            │
│  fader   │  [KNOB]   │ [LO-F] [LM-F] [HM-F] [HI-F]   │  [THRESH]   │  [FREQ]    │
│   ±20dB  │  0–20 dB  │ [LO-G] [LM-G] [HM-G] [HI-G]   │  [RATIO]    │  [THRESH]  │
│          │           │        [LM-Q]  [HM-Q]           │  [ATTACK]   │  [MIX]     │
│  INPUT   │           │                                  │  [RELEASE]  │            │
│  METER   │           │         [ EQ BYPASS ]            │  [KNEE]     │ ♦ FILTER   │
│          │           │                                  │  [MIX]      │ ♪ LISTEN   │
│          │           │                                  │  [ BYPASS ] │ ↔ PHASE    │
│          │           │                                  │   GR METER  │ ⏻ ON/OFF   │
├──────────┴───────────┴──────────────────────────────────┴─────────────┴────────────┤
│  OUTPUT FADER (±20 dB)       OUTPUT METER              PRESET A  PRESET B          │
│                                                        [ PRESET BROWSER ]           │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

General Controls

Knobs

All rotary knobs use vertical drag — drag up to increase, down to decrease. Hover over any knob to see a real-time tooltip showing the current value and unit. After 2 seconds without interaction, the tooltip fades automatically.

Double-click — Reset to default value
Ctrl / ⌘ + drag — Fine-tuning mode
Right-click — Enter a precise value via text input

Bypass Buttons

Each processing module (EQ and Compressor) has an independent bypass button. When bypassed, the button glows and the module is removed from the signal path — all other modules continue to process normally.

Window Scaling

Right-click the plugin title bar or use your DAW's resize handle to scale the CStrip interface. Common sizes: 100%, 125%, 150%, 200%.

Colour Themes

CStrip offers multiple background themes — right-click the background to access the theme menu and choose from Coloured, Dark, Blacker, and others.

04 — Signal Flow

Signal Flow

Understanding the order of processing helps you make better mixing decisions.

DAW Send

Input

→

Gain Fader

Input Gain

→

Saturation

Warmth

→

4-Band

→

Dynamics

Compressor

→

HF Control

De-Esser

→

Gain Fader

Output Gain

→

DAW Return

Output

Stereo Processing CStrip operates in full stereo. All modules — EQ, Compressor, and De-Esser — process both channels simultaneously, preserving the stereo image of your source.

The signal enters at the Input Gain fader, passes through Warmth (analog saturation), then the 4-Band EQ, then the Compressor, then the De-Esser, and finally exits through the Output Gain fader. Bypassing any individual module removes it from the chain while the rest continue processing.

05 — Input & Output

Input & Output Faders

Proper gain staging is the foundation of a great mix. CStrip places precision gain faders at both the start and end of the signal chain.

Control	Range	Default	Description
Input Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Adjusts the level hitting the processing chain. Use this to optimally drive the saturation and compressor.
Output Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Controls the final output level after all processing. Compensate for gain added or removed by other modules.

Gain Staging Tip Aim to have your input signal hitting around −18 dBFS RMS before entering CStrip. This gives headroom for the compressor to add punch while keeping peaks well below 0 dBFS. Use the Input Gain fader to trim the signal to this sweet spot. Then use Output Gain to hit your target bus level.

06 — Warmth

Warmth — Analog Saturation

The Warmth module emulates a Triode Class-A tube amplifier circuit, introducing even-order harmonic distortion that gives digital recordings the depth, body, and "glue" associated with classic hardware.

Control	Range	Default	Description
Warmth	0 to 20 dB	0 dB	Controls the saturation drive level. At 0, the circuit is clean. As you increase, harmonic richness builds up progressively.

How it Works

The Warmth knob controls the saturation parameter of a Triode Class-A amplifier model. Low settings (1–5 dB) add a barely perceptible warmth and "analogue feel". Mid settings (6–12 dB) push the circuit into pleasant, musical saturation — perfect for vocals, bass, and acoustic instruments. High settings (13–20 dB) produce more aggressive harmonic content suitable for creative effect, synths, or parallel processing.

Subtle is Powerful Even 1–3 dB of Warmth on every channel can cumulatively "glue" a mix and reduce digital harshness. Try automating Warmth to subtly increase during choruses for an energetic lift.

07 — Equalizer

4-Band Equalizer

CStrip's EQ section gives you four fully parametric bands covering the entire audible spectrum, from sub-bass rumble to the highest air frequencies.

Band Layout

Band	Type	Freq Range	Default Freq	Gain Range	Q Range
Low	Shelf	20 Hz – 20 kHz	100 Hz	±20 dB	—
Low-Mid	Bell (peaking)	20 Hz – 20 kHz	800 Hz	±20 dB	0.05 – 0.95
High-Mid	Bell (peaking)	20 Hz – 20 kHz	3 kHz	±20 dB	0.05 – 0.95
High	Shelf	20 Hz – 20 kHz	10 kHz	±20 dB	—

Frequency Controls

All four frequency knobs use a logarithmic (skewed) scale centred at 1 kHz, giving you proportional resolution across the entire frequency spectrum. Dragging up on the knob moves the frequency higher; dragging down moves it lower.

Gain Controls

Each band's Gain knob provides ±20 dB of boost or cut. The gain knobs use a linear scale with 0.1 dB steps for precision. Gain defaults to 0 dB (flat — no effect) for all bands.

Q Controls (Low-Mid & High-Mid only)

Q (bandwidth) is available on the two bell (peaking) bands. The range is 0.05 – 0.95:

Low Q (0.05–0.3) — Wide, musical-sounding boost/cut affecting a broad range of frequencies
Mid Q (0.3–0.6) — General purpose, versatile bandwidth
High Q (0.6–0.95) — Narrow, surgical cut for notching resonances or precise boosts

EQ Bypass

The EQ Bypass button removes all four EQ bands from the signal path simultaneously. Use this to A/B the EQ effect while keeping the compressor and other modules active.

EQ Before or After Compression? CStrip's fixed signal flow places EQ before the compressor (EQ → Comp). This means the compressor responds to the EQ'd signal — boosting low-end before the compressor will cause it to work harder on the low end. This is the traditional "console" approach and works great for most sources. If you need EQ after compression, use a second EQ plug-in after CStrip.

EQ Tips by Source

Vocals

High-pass the Low band around 80–120 Hz. Add 2–4 dB around 2–5 kHz (High-Mid) for presence. Gentle high shelf boost at 10–12 kHz for air.

Electric Guitar

High-pass below 80 Hz. Cut Low-Mid around 300–500 Hz to reduce boxiness. Boost High-Mid at 3–5 kHz for bite and definition.

Bass

Boost Low around 60–80 Hz for weight. Cut Low-Mid around 200–400 Hz. Boost High-Mid at 1–2 kHz for pick attack and definition.

Snare

Boost Low around 100–200 Hz for body. Cut Low-Mid at 400–600 Hz. Boost High-Mid at 5–8 kHz for crack. Gentle high shelf for sparkle.

08 — Compressor

Compressor

CStrip's compressor is a versatile, low-latency dynamics processor capable of everything from transparent "glue" to heavy, pumping character — with a fully analogue-inspired knee control and parallel (New York) mix capability.

Parameters

Control	Range	Default	Description
Threshold	−60 to 0 dB	0 dB	The level above which compression begins. Signals below the threshold pass through unaffected.
Ratio	1:1 to 20:1	2:1	How much the signal is reduced for every dB above the threshold. 2:1 is gentle; 10:1+ is limiting-style.
Attack	1 to 1000 ms	30 ms	How quickly the compressor begins gain reduction after the signal exceeds the threshold. Slow attack lets transients through.
Release	5 to 2000 ms	60 ms	How quickly gain reduction recovers once the signal drops below the threshold.
Knee	0 to 20 dB	0 dB	Soft-knee width. At 0 the transition from uncompressed to compressed is abrupt (hard knee). Higher values create a smoother, more musical onset.
Mix	0 to 100 %	100 %	Parallel (New York) compression mix. 100% is fully compressed. Blend wet and dry for natural-sounding density without killing transients.

Compressor Bypass

Click the Compressor Bypass button to remove all dynamics processing from the signal path. The GR meter will go dark when bypassed.

Gain Reduction Meter

The animated GR Meter shows real-time gain reduction in dB. Aim for 3–6 dB of reduction on mix bus applications, and up to 8–12 dB for heavy bus or parallel compression on individual elements.

Attack & Release are logarithmically scaled The Attack and Release knobs use a logarithmic curve with a mid-point centred at 60 ms and 100 ms respectively, giving you fine control in the fast ranges most used in production.

Compression Recipes

Glue / Mix Bus

Threshold: −10 to −6 dB · Ratio: 2:1 · Attack: 40–80 ms · Release: 100–300 ms · Knee: 4–6 dB · Mix: 60–80%

Vocals

Threshold: −20 to −12 dB · Ratio: 3:1 to 5:1 · Attack: 5–20 ms · Release: 50–150 ms · Knee: 2–6 dB · Mix: 80–100%

Drums (Punch)

Threshold: −15 dB · Ratio: 4:1 to 8:1 · Attack: 5–15 ms (let transients through) · Release: 40–80 ms · Knee: 0 dB · Mix: 50–70%

Bass

Threshold: −18 to −12 dB · Ratio: 4:1 · Attack: 20–40 ms · Release: 100–200 ms · Knee: 4 dB · Mix: 80–100%

09 — De-Esser

De-Esser

CStrip's De-Esser targets harsh high-frequency sibilance — the "ess" and "shh" sounds in vocals — using a wideband dynamic processing approach with advanced listen and filter modes for precise adjustment.

Parameters

Control	Range	Default	Description
Frequency (Cutoff)	5 kHz – 10 kHz	10 kHz	The crossover frequency. Frequencies above this point are monitored and attenuated when sibilance is detected.
Threshold	−60 to 0 dB	0 dB	The level at which the de-esser begins attenuating. Lower the threshold to catch more sibilant events.
Mix	0 to 100 %	100 %	Blends the de-esser's output with the dry signal. Use partial mix for subtle, natural results.

Mode Buttons

Button	Icon	Description
Filter	High-pass symbol	Enables a high-pass filter mode, isolating the high-frequency band so you can hear exactly what the de-esser is acting on. Mutually exclusive with Phase/Flip.
Listen	Audacity logo icon	Solos the de-esser's detection signal, allowing you to hear what is being attenuated. Automatically enables when the Frequency knob is turned.
Phase / Flip	Phase symbol	Inverts the polarity of the sidechain signal. Useful for certain cancellation and creative techniques. Mutually exclusive with Filter mode.
On / Off (Power)	Power switch	Enables or disables the entire De-Esser module, removing it from the signal path.

Smart Listen Mode When you grab and turn the Frequency knob, CStrip automatically activates Listen mode so you can immediately hear what you're targeting. Listen mode turns off automatically when you release the knob.

De-Essing Workflow

Enable the De-Esser
Make sure the Power button is active (glowing).
Find the problem frequency
Enable Listen mode, then adjust the Frequency knob until the harshest sibilance is most prominent in the solo'd signal.
Set the Threshold
Disable Listen mode and lower the Threshold until you see movement on the De-Esser GR meter only on the problem "ess" sounds.
Adjust the Mix
Reduce Mix below 100% if the de-esser sounds too aggressive — a natural, transparent result is usually achieved around 70–90%.

10 — Metering

Metering

CStrip provides comprehensive real-time metering to keep your levels under control throughout the entire signal chain.

Meter	Position	Description
Input Meter	Far left	Displays the signal level arriving at CStrip after the Input Gain fader. Shows peak levels from −60 to 0 dBFS.
Output Meter	Far right	Displays the final output level after all processing and the Output Gain fader.
Compressor GR	Compressor section	An animated VU-style meter showing real-time gain reduction (0 to −18 dB). Moves left (or down) as compression is applied.
De-Esser GR	De-Esser section	Shows gain reduction applied by the de-esser to the high-frequency band. Useful for verifying the threshold is set correctly.
LED Indicator	Header	A small LED that lights up when the signal is exceeding a level threshold — a quick "clip check" indicator.

Peak Hold The output meter retains peak hold markers. If you see persistent red peak markers, reduce the Output Gain to prevent clipping at the DAW track level.

11 — Presets

Presets

CStrip ships with 20 professionally crafted factory presets covering a wide range of instruments and situations. User presets are saved to your Documents folder and synced across sessions.

Factory Presets

Default Vocal Male Vocal Female Rock Vocal Acoustic Bass Electric Bass Bass Synth Rock Bass Electric Guitar Rock Rhythm Guitar Piano A Piano B Keyboard Strings Snare Tom Medium Tom Floor Hi-Hat Ethno Drums Percussions

Use Presets as Starting Points Factory presets are engineered for typical conditions. After loading a preset, adjust the EQ frequencies and compressor threshold to match your specific track — every source is different!

A / B Comparison

CStrip has a built-in A/B preset comparison system that lets you store two completely independent sets of parameters and switch between them instantly — perfect for comparing processing approaches or showing a client two options.

Using A/B

Set up state A
Dial in your first processing setting — all parameters are stored automatically in slot A.
Click Preset B
Click the B button. CStrip saves the current state to B and switches to comparing, letting you dial in a different approach.
Toggle between A and B
Click A or B to instantly switch between the two states without losing either setting.

User Presets

Save your own presets via the preset browser panel in the lower portion of the interface. User presets are stored as .xml files in:

~/Documents/CStrip/

These files can be backed up, shared with collaborators, or moved between machines.

12 — Tips & Workflows

Tips & Workflows

Here are some practical starting-point workflows to get the best out of CStrip on common mix scenarios.

Lead Vocals

Vocals are where CStrip shines brightest. The combined power of EQ, compression, de-esser, and warmth gives you a complete vocal chain in a single insert.

Recommended Vocal Chain

Input Gain: Trim to −18 dBFS RMS average
Warmth: 3–6 dB for presence and body
EQ Low band: High-pass shelf at 80–120 Hz, −12 dB to remove mud
EQ Low-Mid band: Cut 1–3 dB at 300–400 Hz to remove boxiness
EQ High-Mid band: Boost 2–4 dB at 2–4 kHz for presence
EQ High band: Boost 1–2 dB at 10–14 kHz for air
Compressor: 4:1 ratio, −18 dB threshold, 10 ms attack, 80 ms release, 3 dB knee
De-Esser: Freq 7–8 kHz, threshold −22 dB, mix 80%
Output Gain: Compensate to target bus level

Mix Bus Processing

CStrip on the master bus is a powerful "finishing" tool. Use light settings to add cohesion without squashing the dynamics of your mix.

Mix Bus Settings

Warmth: 1–2 dB — just enough to add analogue feel
EQ High band: +0.5 to +1.5 dB at 12 kHz for brightness
EQ Low band: +0.5 to +1 dB at 60–80 Hz for weight
Compressor: 1.5:1 to 2:1 ratio, −6 to −10 dB threshold, 40 ms attack, 150 ms release, 6 dB knee, Mix 60–80%
GR: Target 1–3 dB maximum gain reduction

Parallel Compression

The Compressor's Mix knob enables built-in parallel (New York) compression. Set the compressor aggressively (high ratio, low threshold, fast attack), then blend the Mix to around 30–50% — you get density and punch without losing the natural transient feel of the original signal.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Action	Shortcut
Reset knob to default	`Double-click`
Fine-tune value	`⌘ Cmd` + drag
Type in value	`Right-click` → Enter value
Toggle EQ bypass	Click EQ Bypass button
Toggle Compressor bypass	Click Compressor Bypass button

13 — Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Version 1.1.1

Plug-in Formats AU · VST3 · AAX · Standalone

Platform macOS 10.13+ · Windows 10+

CPU Architecture macOS: Intel + Apple Silicon · Windows: x64

Channel Configuration Stereo (2-in / 2-out)

Sample Rate Support 44.1 kHz – 192 kHz

Bit Depth 32-bit floating point (internal)

Latency Zero added latency

Automation All parameters fully automatable

Preset Format XML (.xml)

Licensing Cynicos License Management

Trial Period 30 days, full featured

Supported DAWs

CStrip is compatible with any DAW that supports AU, VST3, or AAX plug-in formats, including:

Logic Pro Pro Tools Ableton Live Reaper Cubase / Nuendo Studio One GarageBand Digital Performer Bitwig Studio

14 — Updates & Support

Updates & Support

CStrip is actively developed with regular updates adding new features, presets, and improvements.

Checking for Updates

To check for the latest version of CStrip and download new updates, visit your account page at:

Your account page displays the latest available version, download links for all plug-in formats and supported platforms, and installation instructions. Simply download the latest .pkg or .exe installer and run it over your existing installation — all your settings and presets will be preserved.

Easy Updates New versions are installed seamlessly without affecting your saved presets or license activation. You can verify which version you have by opening the Settings / Info panel in CStrip.

Contact & Support

Website cynicos.com

Developer Thomas Ceyhan / Babelson Audio

Feedback Welcome CStrip is shaped by user feedback. Feature requests, bug reports, and preset suggestions are always appreciated — reach out via the website.

Fatique

admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 15:19:19 +0000

Dynamic Range Control: The integrated BeingComp Compressor and its second I-LA Compressor provide precision thresholds (down to -60dB), seamless attack and release times, adjustable ratios, and versatile knee shaping for total dynamic control. Limiter Protection: Bring loudness under control with a Limiter featuring adjustable Threshold and Makeup Gain to achieve radio-ready output peaks.

Fatique – User Guide v1.1.2 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio — Professional Audio Tools

Fatique

Analysis / Processor Plug-in

Version

1.1.2

Platform

macOS 10.13+ | Windows 10+

Formats

AU · VST3 · AAX

AU VST3 AAX Standalone

Contents

Navigate this guide by section.

What Fatique does

How audio moves through Fatique

Global Controls

Bypass, safety, input/output

Analysis & Metering

Spectrum, histogram, correlation

EQ Section

Bands, filter modes, bypass

Drive / Distortion

UK, SSCB, US models

Dynamics Processing

Compressor, opto, limiter

Server-hosted screenshots

Factory & user presets

Visual Guide

Practical starter settings

Keeping Fatique up to date

01 — Overview

What is Fatique?

Input & Output

Precision gain staging at the start and end of the chain.

Analysis

Spectrum, histogram, meters, and correlation feedback for confident mixing.

EQ

Four-band tone shaping with flexible filter behavior and quick bypass.

Drive & Dynamics

Multiple saturation models plus compressor, opto, and limiter style processing.

Presets

Factory and user preset management with quick recall and A/B style comparison.

02 — Installation & Activation

Getting Started

Fatique installs in minutes and includes a trial flow that can be activated from within the plug-in.

System Requirements

PlatformmacOS 10.13 or later | Windows 10+

ArchitectureIntel (x86_64) & Apple Silicon (arm64)

DAWAny AU, VST3, or AAX-compatible host

Memory4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended

Installation Steps

Install the plug-in
Run the installer package and choose the formats you want to install.
Scan your DAW
Rescan plug-ins if needed, then insert Fatique on a track or bus.
Check license status
Open the info / license panel and follow the activation or trial prompt.
Start working safely
Begin with conservative gain staging and bypassed modules.

Activation & Licensing

Studio-Friendly Activation If your machine is not online, use the offline activation path from the license panel. That’s the best approach for isolated production systems and live rigs.

Trial / License Reminder If the trial expires, Fatique will require a valid license to continue working. Keep your purchase and activation details available for future reinstalls.

03 — Interface

Interface Overview

Fatique presents the core processing path in a horizontal layout with analysis and utility controls close to the modules they affect.

Main View

Primary full-interface reference from the server-hosted screenshot set.

General Controls

Knobs

Most rotary controls use vertical drag. Drag up to increase a value and down to decrease it. Hovering shows live value feedback, and double-clicking typically resets a parameter to its default.

Double-click — Reset to default value
Cmd + drag — Fine tuning mode on supported controls
Right-click — Some controls may expose numeric entry or contextual options

Bypass Buttons

Scaling and Layout

The interface is designed to stay readable at a range of window sizes. On supported hosts you can resize the plug-in window using the host’s normal UI controls or the plug-in title bar behavior.

04 — Signal Flow

Signal Flow

Understanding the order of processing helps you make better decisions when shaping a sound.

DAW Send

Input

→

Gain Staging

Input Gain

→

Tone

→

Saturation

Drive

→

Dynamics

Comp / Opto / Limiter

→

Utility

Output Gain

→

DAW Return

Output

05 — Global Controls

Core Global Controls

These controls affect the overall behavior of the plug-in and should be checked first when something sounds off.

Control	Common ID / Label	Role	Notes
Safety	`protectYourEars`	Prevent overly loud monitoring	Use this as a safety layer when testing aggressive settings.
Mute	`mute`	Hard mute output	If you hear nothing, check this first.
Bypass	`bypass`	Main processing toggle	Useful for immediate A/B comparisons.
Bypass Effects	`allBypass`	Disable all processing modules	Handy for a clean reference state.
EQ Bypass	`EQBypass`	Bypass the EQ/filter section	Quickly compare tonal changes.

First-Insert Checklist Confirm that host bypass and plug-in bypass are both off, and make sure no safety or mute control is engaged unless you intentionally want silence.

06 — Analysis

Analysis & Metering

Spectrum

Visualize frequency balance and quickly identify resonances, build-up, or missing energy.

Histogram

Helpful when you want a different perspective on level distribution and density.

Correlation

Monitor stereo relationship and phase behavior before committing to a wide mix decision.

Meter	Position	Description	Use
Input Meter	Left side	Shows the incoming signal level after gain staging.	Confirm safe headroom before enabling stronger processing.
Output Meter	Right side	Shows the final level exiting the plug-in.	Use this to keep level-matched A/B comparisons honest.
Correlation	Analysis area	Helps indicate stereo compatibility.	Watch this when widening or adding spatial effects.

Reading the meters The most useful workflow is to compare the processed signal against the bypassed reference at equal loudness. That way the meters guide your decisions without loudness bias.

07 — EQ

EQ Section

The EQ section is designed for quick tone shaping and corrective moves. Treat it as the first musical stage after gain staging, before you drive the signal harder or refine dynamics.

Band	Type	Role	Notes
Low	Shelf / filter	Sub and body control	Use it to clean up rumble or add weight.
Low-Mid	Bell	Boxiness / warmth shaping	Helpful for tightening vocals, guitars, and drums.
High-Mid	Bell	Presence / bite	Great for definition and articulation.
High	Shelf / air	Brightness / sparkle	Use subtle moves to avoid harshness.

EQ Workflow

Start with small moves
Make gentle changes first so the source still sounds natural.
Bypass to compare
Use the EQ bypass to make sure the change really helps the mix.
Revisit output level
After tonal changes, check that the output is still level-matched.

Always listen in context EQ decisions are easiest to judge against the rest of the arrangement rather than in solo.

08 — Drive

Drive / Distortion

Fatique’s Drive section provides a selection of saturation characters for adding weight, edge, or grit. Use it subtly for density or more aggressively for creative coloration.

Distortion Models

Model	Map	Character	Typical Use
UK	`SoftClip`	Smooth and forgiving	Great for gentle thickening.
SSCB	`FuzzAsym`	More aggressive and edgy	Good for harmonics and attitude.
US	`ArcTan`	Rounded and controlled	Useful for polished saturation and body.

09 — Dynamics

Dynamics Processing

Compressor

General-purpose dynamics control for leveling and punch.

Opto

Smoother leveling behavior for vocals, bass, and sustained instruments.

Limiter

Peak-catching final stage to keep the output under control.

Practical Guidance

Goal	Approach	What to listen for
Leveling	Use the compressor or opto with moderate settings	Evenness without pumping
Peak control	Use the limiter near the end of the chain	Transient safety and stable output
Character	Increase drive before dynamics when you want more attitude	Extra harmonics and density

Dynamics-first or tone-first? For clean control, shape tone before compression. For creative coloration, try adding drive first and then compress the resulting harmonics.

10 — Presets

Presets

Fatique ships with factory starting points and supports user presets so you can recall preferred sounds quickly. Use them as creative templates rather than rigid rules.

Factory Presets

Default Clean Analysis Vocal Tame Bass Tighten Drum Punch Mix Bus Soft Color Drive Limiter Safe

Preset Management

Previous / Next preset navigation
Dropdown preset selection
Save and Save As
Copy State and Paste State
Open Preset Folder

Use presets as checkpoints After loading a preset, make small source-specific adjustments to EQ, drive, and dynamics so the sound fits the session rather than the other way around.

11 — Visual Guide

Server-Hosted Screenshots

These images link directly to the uploaded PNGs on the server so the web guide always points to the same asset location.

Full Interface

Main overall layout reference.

Create / Remove

Module creation and removal flow.

Replace Processor

Swapping a processing block or processor type.

Connect / Disconnect

Routing and chain linking interactions.

Processor Controls

Per-module controls and interactions.

Image naming The guide points at PNG versions of the uploaded assets. If your server export uses slightly different filenames, keep this section and swap only the file names in the URLs.

12 — Tips & Workflows

Tips & Workflows

Here are some practical starting points for common use cases.

Vocals

Use gentle EQ cleanup, light drive, moderate compression, and then a limiter only if peaks need protection.

Drums

Push drive a little harder, then use compression to keep transients exciting without uncontrolled peaks.

Bass

Use low-end control in the EQ, add some harmonics with drive, and let dynamics tighten the sustain.

Mix Bus

Keep the changes small. A subtle tonal shift and a small amount of glue can be more useful than obvious processing.

Suggested Workflow

Start neutral
Load a clean preset or begin from the default state.
Stage the level
Use input gain and output trim before pushing tone controls too far.
Shape tone
Use EQ to correct and enhance the source.
Choose the character
Add drive or dynamics depending on whether you want grit, density, or control.
Save the result
Store a user preset when the sound is ready for recall.

Keyboard Shortcuts / Actions

Action	Shortcut / Gesture
Reset a knob	`Double-click`
Fine adjust	`Cmd` + drag
A/B compare	Use bypass and preset compare tools
Toggle sections	Use the section bypass controls

13 — Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Version1.1.2

Plug-in FormatsAU · VST3 · AAX · Standalone

PlatformmacOS 10.13+ | Windows 10+

CPU ArchitectureUniversal (Intel + Apple Silicon)

Channel ConfigurationStereo (2-in / 2-out)

LatencyZero added latency

AutomationAll parameters fully automatable

Preset FormatXML (.xml)

LicensingCynicos License Management

Support FilesFactory preset / data bundle

Sample Rate Support44.1 kHz – 192 kHz

Bit Depth32-bit floating point internal

Supported DAWs

Fatique is designed to work in any host that supports AU, VST3, or AAX plug-ins.

Logic Pro Pro Tools Ableton Live Reaper Cubase / Nuendo Studio One GarageBand Bitwig Studio

14 — Updates & Support

Updates & Support

Keep the plug-in and its presets up to date to ensure consistent recall and compatibility.

Checking for Updates

Visit the account page or installer page provided by Babelson Audio to check for the latest build, then install over your existing version when an update is available.

Safe Updates A normal update should preserve your presets and general settings. After updating, open a known preset to verify everything recalls as expected.

Contact & Support

Websitecynicos.com

DeveloperThomas Ceyhan / Babelson Audio

Feedback Welcome Bug reports, feature requests, and workflow suggestions are always appreciated.

CStrip

admin — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 09:03:24 +0000

CStrip – User Guide v1.1.1 | Babelson Audio

Babelson Audio — Professional Audio Tools

CStrip

Channel Strip Plug-in

Version

1.1.1

Platform

macOS · Windows

Formats

AU · VST3 · AAX

AU VST3 AAX Standalone

Contents

Navigate this guide by section.

What is CStrip?

How audio moves through CStrip

Input & Output Faders

Gain staging

Warmth — Analog Saturation

Triode Class-A saturation

4-Band Equalizer

Low, Low-Mid, High-Mid, High

Compressor

Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Knee, Mix

De-Esser

Cutoff, Threshold, Mix & Listen modes

Input, Output & GR meters

Factory presets & A/B comparison

Vocal, bass, drum & mix bus

Keeping CStrip up to date

01 — Overview

What is CStrip?

Input & Output

Precision ±20 dB faders for gain staging before and after all processing.

Warmth

Triode Class-A analog saturation circuit that adds harmonic richness and musical grit.

4-Band EQ

Low shelf, Low-Mid bell (with Q), High-Mid bell (with Q), and High shelf. Full 20 Hz – 20 kHz coverage.

Compressor

Transparent to punchy. Full control over Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Knee, and Parallel Mix.

De-Esser

High-frequency sibilance control with Cutoff, Threshold, Mix, Listen, Filter, and Phase flip modes.

02 — Installation & Activation

Getting Started

CStrip installs in minutes and includes a 7-day free trial — no credit card required.

System Requirements

Platform macOS 10.13 or later · Windows 10 or later

Architecture Intel (x86_64) & Apple Silicon (arm64)

DAW Any AU, VST3, or AAX-compatible host

RAM 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)

Installation Steps

Download the installer
Download the CStrip installer for your platform (.pkg for macOS or .exe for Windows) from cynicos.com or your purchase confirmation email.
Run the installer
Double-click the installer file for your platform and follow the on-screen instructions. Choose which plug-in formats to install (AU, VST3, and/or AAX, depending on your system and DAW support).
Launch your DAW
Re-scan plug-ins in your DAW or simply add CStrip to a channel. On Logic Pro, AU plug-ins are discovered automatically.
Activate or start trial
On first launch, CStrip checks for a valid license. Click the key icon () in the top-right of the interface to enter an activation key, or click "Start 7-day trial" to begin evaluating without restrictions.

Activation & Licensing

License Management You can manage your product access, downloads, and available licenses from your Cynicos account page. This keeps your activations and installers organised in one place.

Trial Period The 7-day trial starts on first launch and counts calendar days. When the trial expires, CStrip will require a license key to continue working. Purchase at cynicos.com.

03 — Interface

Interface Overview

CStrip presents all processing modules in a single, horizontal channel-strip layout — just like a hardware console. Every control is immediately accessible with no hidden menus or pages.

┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                            C S T R I P  — Babelson Audio                           │
├──────────┬───────────┬──────────────────────────────────┬─────────────┬────────────┤
│  INPUT   │  WARMTH   │           EQUALIZER              │ COMPRESSOR  │  DE-ESSER  │
│          │           │                                  │             │            │
│  fader   │  [KNOB]   │ [LO-F] [LM-F] [HM-F] [HI-F]   │  [THRESH]   │  [FREQ]    │
│   ±20dB  │  0–20 dB  │ [LO-G] [LM-G] [HM-G] [HI-G]   │  [RATIO]    │  [THRESH]  │
│          │           │        [LM-Q]  [HM-Q]           │  [ATTACK]   │  [MIX]     │
│  INPUT   │           │                                  │  [RELEASE]  │            │
│  METER   │           │         [ EQ BYPASS ]            │  [KNEE]     │ ♦ FILTER   │
│          │           │                                  │  [MIX]      │ ♪ LISTEN   │
│          │           │                                  │  [ BYPASS ] │ ↔ PHASE    │
│          │           │                                  │   GR METER  │ ⏻ ON/OFF   │
├──────────┴───────────┴──────────────────────────────────┴─────────────┴────────────┤
│  OUTPUT FADER (±20 dB)       OUTPUT METER              PRESET A  PRESET B          │
│                                                        [ PRESET BROWSER ]           │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

General Controls

Knobs

Double-click — Reset to default value
Ctrl / ⌘ + drag — Fine-tuning mode
Right-click — Enter a precise value via text input

Bypass Buttons

Window Scaling

Right-click the plugin title bar or use your DAW's resize handle to scale the CStrip interface. Common sizes: 100%, 125%, 150%, 200%.

Colour Themes

CStrip offers multiple background themes — right-click the background to access the theme menu and choose from Coloured, Dark, Blacker, and others.

04 — Signal Flow

Signal Flow

Understanding the order of processing helps you make better mixing decisions.

DAW Send

Input

→

Gain Fader

Input Gain

→

Saturation

Warmth

→

4-Band

→

Dynamics

Compressor

→

HF Control

De-Esser

→

Gain Fader

Output Gain

→

DAW Return

Output

Stereo Processing CStrip operates in full stereo. All modules — EQ, Compressor, and De-Esser — process both channels simultaneously, preserving the stereo image of your source.

05 — Input & Output

Input & Output Faders

Proper gain staging is the foundation of a great mix. CStrip places precision gain faders at both the start and end of the signal chain.

Control	Range	Default	Description
Input Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Adjusts the level hitting the processing chain. Use this to optimally drive the saturation and compressor.
Output Gain	−20 to +20 dB	0 dB	Controls the final output level after all processing. Compensate for gain added or removed by other modules.

06 — Warmth

Warmth — Analog Saturation

Control	Range	Default	Description
Warmth	0 to 20 dB	0 dB	Controls the saturation drive level. At 0, the circuit is clean. As you increase, harmonic richness builds up progressively.

How it Works

07 — Equalizer

4-Band Equalizer

CStrip's EQ section gives you four fully parametric bands covering the entire audible spectrum, from sub-bass rumble to the highest air frequencies.

Band Layout

Band	Type	Freq Range	Default Freq	Gain Range	Q Range
Low	Shelf	20 Hz – 20 kHz	100 Hz	±20 dB	—
Low-Mid	Bell (peaking)	20 Hz – 20 kHz	800 Hz	±20 dB	0.05 – 0.95
High-Mid	Bell (peaking)	20 Hz – 20 kHz	3 kHz	±20 dB	0.05 – 0.95
High	Shelf	20 Hz – 20 kHz	10 kHz	±20 dB	—

Frequency Controls

Gain Controls

Each band's Gain knob provides ±20 dB of boost or cut. The gain knobs use a linear scale with 0.1 dB steps for precision. Gain defaults to 0 dB (flat — no effect) for all bands.

Q Controls (Low-Mid & High-Mid only)

Q (bandwidth) is available on the two bell (peaking) bands. The range is 0.05 – 0.95:

Low Q (0.05–0.3) — Wide, musical-sounding boost/cut affecting a broad range of frequencies
Mid Q (0.3–0.6) — General purpose, versatile bandwidth
High Q (0.6–0.95) — Narrow, surgical cut for notching resonances or precise boosts

EQ Bypass

The EQ Bypass button removes all four EQ bands from the signal path simultaneously. Use this to A/B the EQ effect while keeping the compressor and other modules active.

EQ Tips by Source

Vocals

High-pass the Low band around 80–120 Hz. Add 2–4 dB around 2–5 kHz (High-Mid) for presence. Gentle high shelf boost at 10–12 kHz for air.

Electric Guitar

High-pass below 80 Hz. Cut Low-Mid around 300–500 Hz to reduce boxiness. Boost High-Mid at 3–5 kHz for bite and definition.

Bass

Boost Low around 60–80 Hz for weight. Cut Low-Mid around 200–400 Hz. Boost High-Mid at 1–2 kHz for pick attack and definition.

Snare

Boost Low around 100–200 Hz for body. Cut Low-Mid at 400–600 Hz. Boost High-Mid at 5–8 kHz for crack. Gentle high shelf for sparkle.

08 — Compressor

Compressor

Parameters

Control	Range	Default	Description
Threshold	−60 to 0 dB	0 dB	The level above which compression begins. Signals below the threshold pass through unaffected.
Ratio	1:1 to 20:1	2:1	How much the signal is reduced for every dB above the threshold. 2:1 is gentle; 10:1+ is limiting-style.
Attack	1 to 1000 ms	30 ms	How quickly the compressor begins gain reduction after the signal exceeds the threshold. Slow attack lets transients through.
Release	5 to 2000 ms	60 ms	How quickly gain reduction recovers once the signal drops below the threshold.
Knee	0 to 20 dB	0 dB	Soft-knee width. At 0 the transition from uncompressed to compressed is abrupt (hard knee). Higher values create a smoother, more musical onset.
Mix	0 to 100 %	100 %	Parallel (New York) compression mix. 100% is fully compressed. Blend wet and dry for natural-sounding density without killing transients.

Compressor Bypass

Click the Compressor Bypass button to remove all dynamics processing from the signal path. The GR meter will go dark when bypassed.

Gain Reduction Meter

Compression Recipes

Glue / Mix Bus

Threshold: −10 to −6 dB · Ratio: 2:1 · Attack: 40–80 ms · Release: 100–300 ms · Knee: 4–6 dB · Mix: 60–80%

Vocals

Threshold: −20 to −12 dB · Ratio: 3:1 to 5:1 · Attack: 5–20 ms · Release: 50–150 ms · Knee: 2–6 dB · Mix: 80–100%

Drums (Punch)

Threshold: −15 dB · Ratio: 4:1 to 8:1 · Attack: 5–15 ms (let transients through) · Release: 40–80 ms · Knee: 0 dB · Mix: 50–70%

Bass

Threshold: −18 to −12 dB · Ratio: 4:1 · Attack: 20–40 ms · Release: 100–200 ms · Knee: 4 dB · Mix: 80–100%

09 — De-Esser

De-Esser

Parameters

Control	Range	Default	Description
Frequency (Cutoff)	5 kHz – 10 kHz	10 kHz	The crossover frequency. Frequencies above this point are monitored and attenuated when sibilance is detected.
Threshold	−60 to 0 dB	0 dB	The level at which the de-esser begins attenuating. Lower the threshold to catch more sibilant events.
Mix	0 to 100 %	100 %	Blends the de-esser's output with the dry signal. Use partial mix for subtle, natural results.

Mode Buttons

Button	Icon	Description
Filter	High-pass symbol	Enables a high-pass filter mode, isolating the high-frequency band so you can hear exactly what the de-esser is acting on. Mutually exclusive with Phase/Flip.
Listen	Audacity logo icon	Solos the de-esser's detection signal, allowing you to hear what is being attenuated. Automatically enables when the Frequency knob is turned.
Phase / Flip	Phase symbol	Inverts the polarity of the sidechain signal. Useful for certain cancellation and creative techniques. Mutually exclusive with Filter mode.
On / Off (Power)	Power switch	Enables or disables the entire De-Esser module, removing it from the signal path.

De-Essing Workflow

Enable the De-Esser
Make sure the Power button is active (glowing).
Find the problem frequency
Enable Listen mode, then adjust the Frequency knob until the harshest sibilance is most prominent in the solo'd signal.
Set the Threshold
Disable Listen mode and lower the Threshold until you see movement on the De-Esser GR meter only on the problem "ess" sounds.
Adjust the Mix
Reduce Mix below 100% if the de-esser sounds too aggressive — a natural, transparent result is usually achieved around 70–90%.

10 — Metering

Metering

CStrip provides comprehensive real-time metering to keep your levels under control throughout the entire signal chain.

Meter	Position	Description
Input Meter	Far left	Displays the signal level arriving at CStrip after the Input Gain fader. Shows peak levels from −60 to 0 dBFS.
Output Meter	Far right	Displays the final output level after all processing and the Output Gain fader.
Compressor GR	Compressor section	An animated VU-style meter showing real-time gain reduction (0 to −18 dB). Moves left (or down) as compression is applied.
De-Esser GR	De-Esser section	Shows gain reduction applied by the de-esser to the high-frequency band. Useful for verifying the threshold is set correctly.
LED Indicator	Header	A small LED that lights up when the signal is exceeding a level threshold — a quick "clip check" indicator.

Peak Hold The output meter retains peak hold markers. If you see persistent red peak markers, reduce the Output Gain to prevent clipping at the DAW track level.

11 — Presets

Presets

CStrip ships with 20 professionally crafted factory presets covering a wide range of instruments and situations. User presets are saved to your Documents folder and synced across sessions.

Factory Presets

A / B Comparison

Using A/B

Set up state A
Dial in your first processing setting — all parameters are stored automatically in slot A.
Click Preset B
Click the B button. CStrip saves the current state to B and switches to comparing, letting you dial in a different approach.
Toggle between A and B
Click A or B to instantly switch between the two states without losing either setting.

User Presets

Save your own presets via the preset browser panel in the lower portion of the interface. User presets are stored as .xml files in:

~/Documents/CStrip/

These files can be backed up, shared with collaborators, or moved between machines.

12 — Tips & Workflows

Tips & Workflows

Here are some practical starting-point workflows to get the best out of CStrip on common mix scenarios.

Lead Vocals

Vocals are where CStrip shines brightest. The combined power of EQ, compression, de-esser, and warmth gives you a complete vocal chain in a single insert.

Recommended Vocal Chain

Input Gain: Trim to −18 dBFS RMS average
Warmth: 3–6 dB for presence and body
EQ Low band: High-pass shelf at 80–120 Hz, −12 dB to remove mud
EQ Low-Mid band: Cut 1–3 dB at 300–400 Hz to remove boxiness
EQ High-Mid band: Boost 2–4 dB at 2–4 kHz for presence
EQ High band: Boost 1–2 dB at 10–14 kHz for air
Compressor: 4:1 ratio, −18 dB threshold, 10 ms attack, 80 ms release, 3 dB knee
De-Esser: Freq 7–8 kHz, threshold −22 dB, mix 80%
Output Gain: Compensate to target bus level

Mix Bus Processing

CStrip on the master bus is a powerful "finishing" tool. Use light settings to add cohesion without squashing the dynamics of your mix.

Mix Bus Settings

Warmth: 1–2 dB — just enough to add analogue feel
EQ High band: +0.5 to +1.5 dB at 12 kHz for brightness
EQ Low band: +0.5 to +1 dB at 60–80 Hz for weight
Compressor: 1.5:1 to 2:1 ratio, −6 to −10 dB threshold, 40 ms attack, 150 ms release, 6 dB knee, Mix 60–80%
GR: Target 1–3 dB maximum gain reduction

Parallel Compression

Keyboard Shortcuts

Action	Shortcut
Reset knob to default	`Double-click`
Fine-tune value	`⌘ Cmd` + drag
Type in value	`Right-click` → Enter value
Toggle EQ bypass	Click EQ Bypass button
Toggle Compressor bypass	Click Compressor Bypass button

13 — Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Version 1.1.1

Plug-in Formats AU · VST3 · AAX · Standalone

Platform macOS 10.13+ · Windows 10+

CPU Architecture macOS: Intel + Apple Silicon · Windows: x64

Channel Configuration Stereo (2-in / 2-out)

Sample Rate Support 44.1 kHz – 192 kHz

Bit Depth 32-bit floating point (internal)

Latency Zero added latency

Automation All parameters fully automatable

Preset Format XML (.xml)

Licensing Cynicos License Management

Trial Period 30 days, full featured

Supported DAWs

CStrip is compatible with any DAW that supports AU, VST3, or AAX plug-in formats, including:

Logic Pro Pro Tools Ableton Live Reaper Cubase / Nuendo Studio One GarageBand Digital Performer Bitwig Studio

14 — Updates & Support

Updates & Support

CStrip is actively developed with regular updates adding new features, presets, and improvements.

Checking for Updates

To check for the latest version of CStrip and download new updates, visit your account page at: