Apply modern FET compression with a vintage attitude

Kiive Audio’s XTComp is a FET compressor plugin that recreates the sound of the most popular hardware compressors of the modern era. Known for its speed, versatility, and attitude, it’s a must-have for crushing drum busses, squeezing kicks and basses, and controlling acoustic guitars. It also makes for a versatile vocal compressor plugin.

Get the sound of an LA-2A compressor, 1176 compressor, and more

XTComp features distinct ratios, each functioning as a separate compressor with its own attack, release, and knee characteristics. Depending on the settings you use, you can recreate the sound of an LA-2A or 1176. Enhance the tone of your recordings with the DIST modes, which introduce 2nd or 3rd-order harmonics, emulating the drive of tube or tape equipment.

Use British mode for aggressive “all-buttons-in” compression

British mode offers aggressive “all-buttons-in” compression, delivering the iconic pumping and breathing effects famously heard on numerous major records. This mode is a nod to classic British compressors, renowned for their unique character and ability to add density and energy to tracks. It's perfect for achieving a classic, larger-than-life sound on drums, vocals, and more.

Tame harsh signals with a sidechain filter and saturation

The sidechain filter options on the XTComp allow it to reject low-end rumble, providing assertive detail and analog-sounding smoothness. With the addition of an analog-modeled saturation circuit, XTComp lets you add tape-like harmonics and high-frequency compression to your recordings. Soften brittle, thin, and harsh sounds, infusing them with analog warmth.

Use digital-only features for more control than hardware

Kiive Audio has taken this compressor to the next level with plugin-only options. There are dual mix knobs for the compressor and saturator modules, allowing you to apply parallel processing. A Gain Link switch has also been added, making level-matched A/B comparisons simple.

Disclaimer: The XTComp was developed by Kiive Audio using its own modeling techniques, and one of the products studied was the Distressor by Empirical Labs, which is unaffiliated with Kiive Audio. Empirical Labs have not licensed any intellectual property for use in the XTComp, nor have they endorsed or supported the XTComp in any manner.