SoundToys Effect Rack

With this popular virtual-analogue effect suite free for a limited time, let’s explore some of its little-known uses

While it’s only been a few years since Soundtoys 5 was introduced, the package has grown considerably and now encompasses 21 distinct processors. 14 of these effects can be found in its Effect Rack, which lets you mix and match devices and save the entire setup as a single multi-effect preset.

The plugin’s sonic authenticity is a big part of why producers like Dave Pensado and Tom Holkenborg (aka Junkie XL) enthusiastically endorse it. Soundtoys plugins sound and behave like actual analogue gear, and over the years, ongoing refinements have made these plugins fairly considerate in terms of CPU usage.

Effect Rack is currently free to use for a limited time (see page 16). With that in mind, it’s the perfect time to explore how these tools can go beyond basic hardware emulations. In fact, certain processor combos yield results that are reminiscent of modular gear, specifically West Coast-style systems (eg Buchla and Serge), but with the ability to easily save and recall your patches.

Tone generation

The attention to detail in Soundtoys’ circuit modeling allows it to recreate many behaviours that are generally the domain of proper analogue circuitry. In fact, with a bit of forethought and experimentation, you can set up several of its devices ‘incorrectly’ and use them as tone generators. Here are some starting points.

Important: before you get started, place a hard limiter after these effects and lower your monitoring volume to a level far below your usual preferences, especially if using headphones. It is very easy for these techniques to spiral out of control, which could destroy your monitors and even damage your hearing.

Oscillators