Reflex Acoustics releases the Fourier Compressor with auto gain-staging across 100 bands

Automatic spectral compression.



The Fourier Compressor from Reflex Acoustics is a digital audio effect plugin that uses the Fast Fourier Transform to implement a 100-band mid/side compressor where every frequency band continuously adjusts its threshold and make-up gain in order to imprint a consistent dynamic signature over time, even if input levels change.

This results in a compressor that, although versatile and configurable, can also produce good results on its default settings without needing to be manually calibrated.

Depending on the source material, the effect can sound more transparent than single-band compression—improving dynamics and clarity with less of an overall pumping sound—given that not all frequencies are in gain reduction at the same time.

The device also works as a spectral ducking tool when used in Sidechain mode. Because all selected frequencies experience gain reduction over time, the Fourier Compressor offers a different de-masking sound than other spectral plugins that focus mostly on the loudest or most-clashing frequencies.

Available for $45 (or free demo) from reflex-acoustics.com.

Features:Automatic compression threshold—use the "Compression" dial to control how far the thresholds ride below the peaks in your signal
Globally adjustable Attack/Release times
Attack time and Ratio vary depending on frequency
External sidechain ducking capability with 7ms look-ahead
Parallel processing via gain-matched dry/wet mix control
Plugin tries to maintain matched short-term LUFS (measured over the trailing 3s), even while you adjust the dials
Mid-side processing (100% unlinked)
Technical notes:Available in VST3 format for PC, and VST3 & AU formats for Mac. AAX support coming soon
Requires a compatible Digital Audio Workstation or other plugin host
37ms latency from frequency detection window, plus 7ms from look-ahead if used in sidechain ducking mode
Supports common sample rates from 44.1 to 384kHz
Plugin is designed for common audio signals such as music and voice; may not react meaningfully to artificial test signals such as chirps, impulses or bursts