Although synthesizers do not need compression to sound great as is the case with vocals and acoustic instruments, this doesn't mean you shouldn't add some to your tracks. Most experienced producers use compressors, but it is still something that is overlooked by a lot of users because it seems so daunting. In the past compressors used to be bulky hardware, but like most synthesizers, there are now plenty of compressors available as software plug-ins. Here are some of the best compressor plug-ins that can be used to enhance your synthesizer tracks.

FirePresser

by United Plugins

Link: https://www.pluginboutique.com/product/2-Effects/8-Compressor/6229-FirePresser

Price: $95.00

FirePresser is a relatively recent compressor plug-in by United Plugins that combines four legendary hardware compressors in one package. It is also easy to adjust the amount of presence that every compressor in the chain has thanks to FirePresser's Rainbow Pad. The order of the compressors can be changed as you like and it features more than enough presets for those who do not want to get too bogged down with the technicalities. In addition, FirePresser uses internal 64-bit audio processing and can handle any sampling rate. Last, but not least, FirePresser has an easy to use and flexible GUI. FirePresser has a 15-day unlimited trial version that can be tried out for free and purchasing the full version provides you with the license files to activate the software. This means that no iLok, dongle, or even internet access is required for activation and the plug-in can be used freely on all of your computers.

Parallel Aggressor

by Baby Audio

Link: https://babyaud.io/parallel-aggressor-plugin

Price: $49.00

Parallel Aggressor by Baby Audio is a great plugin for adding more punch to your mix in a way that sounds more natural. It actually splits your audio into three equal parts so that along with the original signal you also get heavily compressed and heavily saturated duplicates referred to as "Spank" and "Heat" respectively. The Spank and Heat knobs can be used to dial in just the right amounts needed, which can then be further tweaked with the style knobs. So, for example, the Spank engine has style injection buttons for extra punch, extra smack, sidechain filter, and mono. The plugin also has auto gain to help you keep the output consistent. Engineers and producers like KurtCurt and Anthony Saffery also contributed some of the 25 presets included with Parallel Aggressor. A free trial version of this plugin is available but outputs five seconds of silence every 60 seconds unless activated with a license key.

PSP oldTimerMB

by PSP Audioware

Link: http://www.pspaudioware.com/plugins/dynamic_processors/psp_oldtimer_multiband/

Price: $199

PSP oldTimerMB by PSP Audioware is not cheap, but it is very good at what it does. It is a vintage style multi-band compressor that is based on the best-selling PSPoldTimer compressor from the same company. They managed to pull it off to and it adds enough warmth to tracks to please even the most jaded analog enthusiasts. Not only is the modeling of classic compression response really good, but PSP oldTimerMB also features a very intuitive user interface. It provides access to switchable and adjustable output valve emulation, which makes it easy to add some additional color to all your sounds. A demo version of the plugin is available but requires an active PSP account to access.

Conclusion

Let us know in the comments or on the forum what your thoughts are on compressor plug-ins. Do you have a favorite that you stick with, such as "3 Compressors You'll Actually Use" by Arturia, or is the compressor that is more than likely included with your DAW sufficient for your needs?