Softube
Summary
Abstract
Softube is a Swedish plugin developer with 28 mentions across 17 threads, known for high-quality hardware emulations and the Console 1 hardware/software mixing system. Their plugins are available in both native and UAD formats. The Model 72 (Minimoog emulation) is praised for synth duties, while their compressor emulations (CL1B, Summit TLA-100) are valued mixing tools. Native and UAD versions are functionally identical.
Key Characteristics
- Model 72: Minimoog emulation; “does the Minimoog thing very well”
- CL1B emulation: Tube-Tech optical compressor plugin
- Summit TLA-100 emulation: Popular compressor plugin
- Console 1: Hardware mixing controller with integrated plugin chain
- Weiss series: Mastering-grade processing
- Available in both native and UAD formats — “should be identical as long as it’s the same plugin/version”
- Consistently high build quality across the plugin line
Use Cases
- Minimoog-style synthesis (Model 72)
- Vocal compression (CL1B, Summit TLA-100)
- Complete mixing workflow via Console 1
- Mastering processing (Weiss series)
Settings & Sweet Spots
- Model 72 for production requiring Moog-style bass and lead sounds
- CL1B on vocals for smooth optical compression
- Console 1 for tactile mixing workflow
Comparable Alternatives
| Plugin | Notes |
|---|---|
| UAD Plugins | Same plugins often available in both ecosystems |
| Acustica Audio | Convolution-based alternative; more CPU-heavy |
| Arturia Mini V | Alternative Minimoog emulation |
| Plugin Alliance | Various compressor emulations |
Common Mistakes
- Buying the UAD version when the native version sounds identical and doesn’t require UA hardware
- Not exploring the full Softube lineup beyond the well-known compressor emulations
See Also
- UAD Plugins
- Moog Synthesizers (hardware counterpart to Model 72)
- Acustica Audio
Source Discussions
Community Insights
“I use the Softube Model 72 these days and it does the Minimoog thing very well!” — James Redfern
“UA and native Softube versions of plugs should be identical as long as it’s the same plugin/version generally.” — Josh Bowman
“Has anybody tried the CL1B and Summit TLA 100 from Softube? Always wanted the CL1B plug in.” — jerikcenteno