Roundup: Exciter plugins

Thrill yourself silly with these toasty signal warmers – but which is the most exciting?

Waves Vitamin $249

Easily the most flexible and configurable exciter on this list, Vitamin is a workhorse plugin that can perform precise enhancements. There are five distinct bands that can be manually divided across the spectrum using the crossover controls. Each has an independent gain control (0 to +48) and a stereo width control (0x to 2x) which works well for widening or narrowing sounds. The overall balance between clean and enhanced signals can be changed via the Direct and Enhancement Master settings, while an additional punch control seems to exaggerate the enhancement effect with compression. Vitamin’s ability to manipulate harmonics across the spectrum and stereo field make it a go-to for full range, exciting and polished-sounding mixes. It’s expensive, but the comprehensive level of controls and solid sound quality mean it’s excellent for warming up any signal. waves.com

AudioThing Type A $71

Pitched as a recreation of the classic Dolby Noise Reduction Unit – a “misused” piece of hardware that was exploited as an enhancer – Type A is a faithful emulation of an obscure piece of history and produces a unique sound. Type A packs four bands of independent excitement, each with its own Level control and Mute. The built-in compressor with variable Attack and Release, paired with the added background Noise circuit, can help create that nostalgic “dodgy” ’80s/’90s VHS tape sound. The Input and Output levels, along with the Mix control, allow the precise dialling in of sounds from subtle to extreme. Additional controls help with monitoring and calibrating the VU meter. The factory presets are well designed with a good variety of effects possible. A great tool for exaggerated lo-fi tones and retro excitement on drums, bass and vocals. audiothing.net