HoRNet HA2A 1.1.0 update

We are excited to announce the latest update for HoRNet HA2A, our modern take on the iconic opto compressor. This new release adds multiple features and improvements that not only make it a faithful recreation of the legendary hardware but also bring it into the modern age with a host of new capabilities designed for today’s music production needs.

HoRNet HA2A is a meticulous emulation of the renowned opto compressor originally built with a unique combination of a photoresistor and an electroluminescent panel. This innovative design was revolutionary for its time and is still highly regarded today. To ensure that we captured its essence accurately, we used a hands-on approach by measuring the transfer function, attack, and release behaviors of an actual unit. We then incorporated these measurements into the plugin, faithfully recreating the sound and response of the original hardware. This process also helped to significantly improve the OPTO model in Multicomp Plus MK2, adding another layer of depth and authenticity to the plugin.

While we’ve maintained the warm, vintage characteristics of the original unit, HoRNet HA2A also includes several modern enhancements to make it more versatile and adaptable to the needs of today’s producers and engineers. One of the most notable updates is the inclusion of VU meters for both input and output. These meters provide an easy-to-read visual representation of your signal levels, offering precise feedback as you fine-tune your settings. This feature is especially useful in both mixing and mastering contexts, where accurate level monitoring is crucial to achieving professional results.

Another significant update is the introduction of auto input gain. This feature allows you to target a 6VU input level, automatically adjusting the gain to ensure that you’re working within optimal parameters. This is particularly helpful when you want to achieve consistent compression without constantly having to adjust input levels manually. Alongside the input gain, the plugin also includes automatic makeup gain. This automatically compensates for any gain reduction caused by the compression, ensuring that your output signal remains at a consistent volume level. This addition streamlines your workflow, reducing the need for additional gain staging and adjustments, and allowing you to focus more on the creative aspects of your project.

In addition to these new features, HoRNet HA2A also includes the ability to control the plugin’s compression settings across multiple instances. This means you can now adjust and control the compression for all tracks simultaneously from a single interface, which can save a great deal of time in large sessions where consistency is key. Whether you’re working with a complex mix or simply need to maintain a consistent sound across several channels, this feature simplifies your workflow and increases efficiency.

For users who prefer to work with parallel compression, HoRNet HA2A also provides separate dry and wet controls, allowing you to blend the processed signal with the original uncompressed signal. This gives you full control over how much compression you want to apply without losing the natural dynamics of your track. Additionally, the plugin offers several operational modes, including stereo, dual mono, mid, and side modes, giving you flexibility and control over how the compression is applied across your mix.

One of the standout features of HoRNet HA2A is the bypass button. This allows you to disable the compression effect while keeping the analog emulation active. This means you can use the plugin as a tube saturator, adding warmth and harmonic richness to your sound without applying any compression. This feature is perfect for those who want to inject some analog character into their tracks without altering their dynamic range.

Speaking of analog character, HoRNet HA2A utilizes cutting-edge analog emulation technology that mimics the sound of the original hardware’s input transformer, tube amplifier, and output transformer. This emulation adds a subtle warmth and harmonic distortion that gives your audio a vintage feel, akin to classic analog equipment. However, for those who prefer a cleaner sound, it’s easy to disable the analog emulation and work with a more modern, transparent compression sound. This flexibility allows the plugin to suit a variety of production styles, from vintage to contemporary, making it a versatile tool in any producer’s arsenal.

To ensure the best possible audio quality, we’ve implemented intelligent oversampling into the plugin. The oversampling automatically adjusts based on your sample rate, ensuring that the signal is processed at the highest quality. With the plugin capable of operating at up to 192 kHz, this feature helps to reduce artifacts and preserve the clarity of your audio, particularly when working with high-resolution audio files. The result is a pristine, transparent compression process that retains the integrity of your original material.

The user interface of HoRNet HA2A has also been designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Featuring a vectorial and hardware-accelerated design, the interface looks great on any screen resolution and is easy to navigate, whether you’re using a large monitor or a smaller laptop display. Furthermore, the plugin’s interface is fully resizable, so you can adjust it to fit your specific needs. Whether you need a smaller window for quick adjustments or a larger interface for detailed fine-tuning, HoRNet HA2A has you covered.

The latest update, version 1.1.0, brings even more enhancements. One major addition is the ability to control all instances of the plugin from a single interface. This feature allows you to apply consistent compression settings across multiple tracks without having to adjust each instance individually. Additionally, the new output gain compensation switch ensures that any changes in the output level due to compression are automatically compensated for, maintaining a consistent volume throughout your mix.

As always, the update is free for existing owners of HoRNet HA2A. You can download the latest version directly from HoRNet DoIn or from the user area on our website. This update includes numerous performance improvements and bug fixes to ensure the plugin works seamlessly across a wide range of DAWs and systems.

In summary, HoRNet HA2A is a powerful, flexible tool for anyone who needs precise, high-quality compression with a touch of analog warmth. Whether you’re working in a professional studio or producing music at home, this plugin offers unparalleled control and authenticity, with modern features that make it easier to use than ever before. With its faithful recreation of a classic opto compressor, combined with advanced functionality like auto gain, parallel compression, and oversampling, HoRNet HA2A is an indispensable tool for your mixing and mastering needs.