Overview

Much more than a facelift

The elysia alpha compressor V2 is a detailed emulation of one of the most revered analog mastering compressors ever made. Utilizing the very latest in physical modeling technology with Brainworx’s exacting new model of the built-in Lehle transformer for adding pristine analog warmth, and a customizable UI optimised for today's screen resolutions, V2 represents the apotheosis of the alpha compressor concept.

The original alpha compressor is legendary for a reason

It delivers clean, controlled, high-end compression even at extreme settings, providing both flexibility and accuracy while preserving immaculate sound. It’s the kind of compressor that enhances whatever you put through it, providing everything from subtle glue to surgical refinements and correction, all while retaining the original musicality of your mix or master.

An established partnership once again sets a reference standard

Developed by Brainworx in close collaboration with elysia, V2 builds on the hardware and the celebrated V1 plugin to incorporate a raft of new features that intelligently expands on the original alpha compressor’s controls and sonic capabilities. The result is an incredibly refined tool for meeting the demands of modern workflows with efficiency, precision, and uncompromisingly pristine audio quality.

Alpha sound. V2 control

The overhauled and resizable UI now incorporates the Brainworx top tool bar and an expandable plugin-only section with options for further dialling in exactly the sound you’re looking for. You’ll find Brainworx’s patented TMT channel-modeling, controls for setting up the headroom, adjusting the stereo field and sidechain linking, as well as the option to use an external key input if desired.

Features

Modeled from the hardware:

  • Precise emulation of the original alpha compressor in collaboration with elysia, providing the most sophisticated and complete set of dynamics control available in plugin form.
  • Maintains the sonic integrity of the original source material even when extreme settings are applied.
  • Integrated M/S matrix: As an alternative to standard stereo operation, you can process mid and side signals independently, opening up further options for precision enhancements to your stereo field.
  • Feed forward & backward: Compression types can be individually chosen for each channel, making a different characteristic response available with just a button push.
  • Auto Fast: Switchable semi-automation consistently provides perfect attack and release based on adjustable values—even when working with complex material.
  • The Niveau EQ provides further control for detailed tone shaping, additional clarity and punch with zero harshness.
  • Sidechain filter: Onboard frequency selective compression, avoiding the need for complex routings and favoring an efficient workflow.
  • Parallel compression: Both direct and compressed signals can be blended as desired.

Plugin-Only Enhancements in V2:

  • A completely overhauled CPU-efficient and resizable UI for high resolution displays
  • Brainworx TMT (Tolerance Modeling Technology) for ultra-realistic analog behavior and channel variance
  • TX-Drive transformer modeling for rich harmonic saturation
  • Stereo Width and Mono Maker for advanced spatial control
  • Headroom control to match modern mastering workflows
  • Enhanced metering and gain staging with Auto Output Gain
  • Ambience, external sidechain (key) input and sidechain listening

Audio Examples

Industry Reviews

  • Paul Ashmore

    Paul Ashmore

    Audio Animals

    The features that V2 has bring this version into the modern age. It looks great and feels great to use.

  • Matthew Styles-Harris

    Matthew Styles-Harris

    Mixing & Mastering Engineer at Horizontal Studios (Joe Goddard, Special Request, Chromeo, Alan Braxe)

    Great update. UI is much better and the action sounds awesome. Very noble sound!

  • Allen Hunnie

    Allen Hunnie

    Streetheart, McMaster and James, The WSO, Harlequin

    I must say wooow what a plugin... makes me wish I really had a chance to try the real unit... I still want the real hardware now more than ever... I must say I never wanted to purchase something… Read More

  • Geert Bevin

    Geert Bevin

    I released my band's debut album on Monday after having done the final mastering with the elysia alpha plugin during the weekend. It was wonderful to be able to use this compressor in unlinked M/S… Read More

  • David Arnold

    David Arnold

    Composer (Casino Royale, Independence Day, Sherlock)

    The elysia units I've been using on individual tracks as well as across sub mixes and final stereo outs. All of these elysia units make up an incredibly powerful set of tools and have really… Read More

Customer Reviews

Specifications

Supported Plugin Formats
AAX DSP, AAX Native, AU, AAX AudioSuite, VST2, VST3

Supported Operating Systems
macOS 15 down to macOS 12
Windows 11 down to Windows 10

Mac
Intel, or Apple Silicon

PC
x64-compatible CPU

System Requirements
Display resolution: 1440 × 900px or 1280 × 960px or higher
Memory: 2 GB RAM

Downloads

With the Installation Manager you can select, download & install all the Plugin Alliance products. Select any and all formats you need for your system! Mac & PC.