TrackComp 2

With emulations of classic Optical, FET, VCA & Zenner compressor/limiters, this has become my "go to" for tracks that need one. Unlike a lot of plugins, the presets are well described and useful needing just an occasional tweak. I've owned this plugin since version 1 and version 2 is a big improvement. Like a lot of the classic compressor/limiters that it emulates [very accurately to my ear] it's easy to get good results with minimal effort.

The CPU usage is quite good. I've used multiple instances on several multi-mic live capture events with no glitches.

The FET emulation is great on a drum buss using the "Drum Room" preset. Little tweaking required but it's so good it's easy overuse.

I've worked in broadcast and studio engineering since the 70's and used and/or owned most of the originals. I owned and rebuilt a pair of 1960's LA-2A's that had original T4 [no suffix] gain control modules. The Optical emulation of this plugin sounds, responds and has the tube warmth very close to the original but lacks the tube noise and thermal drift of the original.

This plugin is also useful for those who are not familiar with the original units or are not sure which one will work the best on a track. Straight ahead, easy to to use controls and a well written manual. I own other plugins from this developer and use them in every project. Their tech support is fast and helpful. I really can't think of anything I don't like about this plugin with the possible exception that it's so good, it's easy to overuse. If you want one track compressor/limiter plugin that does it ALL this is the one.