Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-in Suite - Short Review

The Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plugin Suite

The Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plugin Suite is a comprehensive software package that brings the legendary sound of Focusrite’s iconic Red range equalizer and compressor into the digital realm. Here’s an overview of what this suite offers:

What it Does

The Red 2 and Red 3 Plugin Suite accurately models the classic Red range hardware units, allowing users to incorporate the renowned sound of these analog processors directly into their digital audio workflows. This suite is designed for producers and engineers who seek to capture the exceptional clarity, versatility, and natural sound that the original Red hardware units are famous for.

Key Features

Red 2 Equalizer

• The Red 2 plugin is derived from the ISA 110 equalizer circuits, initially designed for the Neve console at Sir George Martin’s Air Studios, London. It features a flexible 6-band configuration with high and low-pass filters, making it extremely versatile and sought-after for its subjectively warm and smooth sound.

Red 3 Compressor

• The Red 3 plugin is based on the ISA130 compressor module, utilizing an innovative proprietary VCA design that earned Focusrite a TEC award. It is known for its ability to retain a natural sound even with significant compression. Key controls include:
• Input gain adjustable from -18 dB to 18 dB
• Ratio knob with a continuous range from 1.5:1 to infinity:1
• Attack settings with Fast and Slow options
• Threshold ranging from -10 to -50 dB
• Release settings from 0.1 to 4 seconds, with an Auto Release feature that adapts to the signal dynamics
• Make Up Gain up to 40 dB
• Dry/Wet control for blending compressed and uncompressed signals
• Two level meters: Input/Output and Gain Reduction.

Functionality

• Formats and Compatibility: The plugins are available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats, compatible with Mac OS 10.9 or higher and Windows 7 and 8.1. This ensures seamless integration with various digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools, Logic, and Ableton.
• User Interface: The plugins feature meticulously detailed on-screen front panels that mirror the original hardware units, providing an intuitive and familiar interface for users. The GUI includes clear and functional metering, with the Input/Output meter and Gain Reduction meter offering real-time feedback on signal levels and compression.
• Activation and Installation: The suite requires registration and activation through a Focusrite account. Once activated, the plugins can be used without an internet connection. A demo mode is available, although it will occasionally silence the audio if not activated.
• Performance and Sound Quality: The Red 2 and Red 3 plugins are praised for their ability to deliver the classic Focusrite sound, known for its clarity, warmth, and musicality. They are highly versatile and can be used to enhance a wide range of musical sources without compromising the integrity of the original recordings.

The Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plugin Suite is a powerful addition to any audio production setup, offering the legendary sound of Focusrite’s analog hardware in a convenient and flexible digital format.