Pulsar Audio – IPA 25 v1.0.11 for WiN

IPA 25 Multi-VCA Dynamics Processor Classic VCA compression with modern VCA control. Modeled after the classic VCA, the IPA 25 from Pulsar Audio is a flexible dynamics control system with visual control and modular signal delivery.

Instantly switch VCA modes: IPA (original), P&P (Mu), or diode. Explore a full set of dynamics tools: clipper, limiter, visual sidechain EQ, and more. Make quick and confident mixing decisions with real-time visual feedback. Work at your own pace, not the plugin’s: zero latency for tracking, oversampling for mixing.

Faithful where it matters, expanded where it matters

The IPA 25 captures the original’s precise RMS detection, ratio-dependent inflection, and program-dependent release, then expands on it with multiple harmonic circuits, side-chain shaping, and integrated peak management.

Instead of being locked into a single circuit, you can choose harmonic behavior: transparent clean control, tube-like bloom, or diode-like grain. Each creates dynamics during the gain reduction stage, rather than simply adding distortion.

And because mixing today requires more than just tone, the IPA 25 goes beyond hardware: a full-fledged sidechain EQ, adaptive limiter/limiter, and stereo channel shaping are all built in and utilize the processor efficiently.

You don’t just get a familiar sound. You get the power to shape it your way.

Select the compression type

In IPA 25 the detector and settings remain unchanged, only the harmonic imprint of the gain-cut cascade changes.

It’s like four compressors in one: the same proven envelope with harmonic differences at the circuit level that transform the sound of your mix. Switch between them instantly without disturbing the balance.

• V-Mu: Tube-style saturation that blooms in the low-mids and smooths out harsh edges.
• IPA 25 (Original VCA): Sharp and precise, with just enough roundness when pressed.
• N-Diode: Asymmetrical limiting that adds grain and pushes the mids forward.
• Clean VCA: Clean envelope control when you need transparency.
  

Get started quickly using custom settings, or dive right into listening to characters based on your own material.

Compression following music

In most compressors, sidechaining is a secondary function. In the IPA 25, it becomes a creative tool, allowing you to decide not only the degree of compression but also the cause.

• Perforation Selector: Original NORM, MID, and LOUD modes, shifting the detector focus across the entire spectrum.
• Visual Sidechain EQ: Four flexible bands for precise definition of frequencies causing gain reduction.
• Stereo Linking: Control how and when channels apply attenuation: steady levels, fast transients, or anything in between.
• External Sidechain: Trigger from any source for squats, pumps, or creative movement.

With the IPA 25, the detector follows the music, not the other way around.

Push level without artifacts

The IPA 25 adaptive clipper/limiter adds density only where your mix can mask it—no muddy bass, no bass roll-off.

The limiter uses a breakpoint algorithm that only intervenes when overshoot occurs. Sustained low frequencies are passed unaffected, while transient signals experience a slight saturation, naturally masked by their spectrum. Each movement is restored smoothly, avoiding the flat, pinched feel typical of conventional limiting.

Clipper – Instantly cuts off transients, adding harmonic weight where needed and preventing subsequent compressors from overreacting.

Routing – Place the module where it fits your workflow:

• Pre-Comp is used to suppress uncontrolled peaks before compression.
• Pre-mix is ​​used to add peak control or color within a parallel path.
• Post-mix is ​​used to maximize the ceiling throughout the entire bus.
  

Create peaks without choking sustain. Raise the level without brick-wall artifacts.

Compression isn’t just about the amount of gain reduction, but also when it occurs. The IPA 25’s sync tools allow you to specifically shape the envelope:

• Lookahead: Anticipates peaks, softening them before they reach them, providing a smooth and transparent limiting on dense material.
• Lookback: Leaves the first transient untouched, while compressing the sustain for punch and impact.
• Feedforward/Feedback: Choose whether harmonics remain in the audio path or enter the detector itself, slightly altering the response.

Whether you need a punch or glue, the IPA 25 gives you the choice.

Accurate simulation without CPU load

IPA 25 is designed to perform in real sessions without any compromises.

• Tracking: Zero-latency mode keeps performers on track.
• Mixing and mastering: Oversampling for maximum precision without aliasing.
• Efficiency: Circuit-level detail where it matters and optimization where it doesn’t, delivering precision without taxing the CPU.
  

And with real-time visualization that clearly shows you what’s happening in the audio path, you can make important decisions faster.