HoRNet HCS1 1.1.0 update

HoRNet HCS1 1.1.0 Update: Vintage Guitar Compressor Sustainer with Enhanced Performance

We are excited to announce the latest update to HoRNet HCS1, our faithful recreation of a classic vintage guitar compressor sustainer. The 1.1.0 version is now available, bringing enhanced compatibility with Apple Silicon devices, ensuring that users with the latest hardware can enjoy a smooth, responsive experience. Whether you’re a guitarist, producer, or engineer, this update will further improve the performance of one of the most iconic guitar effects in music history.

HoRNet HCS1 faithfully replicates a renowned guitar compressor sustainer pedal that was widely produced from the mid-seventies to the mid-eighties. This legendary pedal was beloved by guitarists for its ability to smooth out sustain and create a more dynamic sound by acting as a compressor. With this plugin, you can now experience that distinctive, musical compression directly within your digital audio workstation (DAW). It delivers the same classic sound that guitarists have relied on for decades, now conveniently available in a plugin format.

The key to the unique sound of the HCS1 lies in its ability to emulate the specific behavior of the original pedal. This particular compressor features a fixed threshold, which means that the plugin processes signals both above and below this threshold. For example, when the input signal is very low, such as a note naturally decaying, the internal volume is boosted significantly. Conversely, if the signal exceeds the threshold, such as the initial pick of a note, the plugin gradually decreases the signal. This distinctive behavior differs from traditional audio compressors, which usually work by applying compression equally across the entire signal.

This dynamic response produces a unique sound that’s especially effective for electric guitars. The sustain is enhanced without making the signal sound too artificial or over-processed. The result is a smooth, controlled sustain that allows notes to ring out more clearly while keeping the sound musical and dynamic. The HCS1 works wonders on electric guitars, providing the kind of vintage tone and sustain that’s hard to achieve with other compressors. It’s not just for guitars, though—this plugin can also be used creatively on other sources, such as keyboards, drums, or even vocals. The flexibility of the HCS1 makes it a versatile tool in any producer’s collection.

In terms of control, the HCS1 plugin is intentionally minimalistic. Unlike modern compressors with a plethora of adjustable parameters, the HCS1 offers a few simple controls to shape its effect. The threshold and attack time are fixed, which means you don’t have to worry about setting them manually. This simplicity allows you to focus on the sustain and the overall feel of the effect rather than getting bogged down in complex settings.

One of the key features of HoRNet HCS1 is the “Attack” knob. While the threshold and attack time are fixed, this knob allows you to control the release of the compressor, which in turn affects how much of the attack you hear in the processed sound. The release time is critical in determining the feel of the compression, as it dictates how quickly the compressor returns to its normal level after the peak of the signal. The fact that this knob is labeled “Attack” can be somewhat confusing, but it is actually related to how the compressor handles the transient portion of the signal. Essentially, the Attack knob controls how much of the initial note or percussive hit comes through before the compression kicks in.

This simple control layout makes the HCS1 a very easy-to-use plugin. Whether you’re a guitarist looking for the perfect sustain or a producer experimenting with different sound sources, this plugin offers a classic tone with minimal fuss. The straightforward design ensures that you can dial in your desired sound quickly, without needing to navigate through complex parameters or lengthy manuals.

The most recent update, version 1.1.0, is a maintenance release that focuses on improving the compatibility of the plugin with newer systems. Specifically, Apple Silicon support has been added, ensuring that HCS1 runs smoothly on the latest Macs equipped with M1 and M2 chips. As a result, users with newer MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, and iMac models can now take full advantage of this vintage compressor sustainer plugin without any performance issues or compatibility concerns. This update is particularly important for producers and musicians who rely on cutting-edge hardware and want their plugins to perform at the highest level.

As with all HoRNet plugins, this update is available for free to all current owners of HCS1. If you already own the plugin, you can easily download the update via the DoIn app or from your user account page on the HoRNet website. The update ensures that you can keep your plugin up-to-date with the latest performance enhancements and bug fixes, guaranteeing a smooth experience as you continue to create with HCS1.

HoRNet HCS1 remains one of the most sought-after plugins for achieving that classic vintage compressor sustainer sound. Whether you’re looking to smooth out sustain on your electric guitar, add some compression to your drum mix, or experiment with dynamic processing on other instruments, this plugin offers a musical, vintage tone that is hard to beat. The combination of its simple controls and authentic sound makes it a go-to choice for guitarists, producers, and engineers alike.

In conclusion, the HoRNet HCS1 1.1.0 update brings significant improvements to this already powerful plugin. With Apple Silicon compatibility and continued attention to maintaining its authentic sound, the plugin is now more accessible and reliable than ever. Its unique ability to emulate a vintage compressor sustainer pedal—with dynamic compression and smooth sustain—remains a standout feature. Whether you’re a guitar player looking for classic sustain or a producer exploring the warmth of analog processing, HCS1 offers a simple yet powerful tool that delivers outstanding results.