Pulsar Audio – 1178 v1.5.7 for WiN

A perfectly modeled and improved FET compressor. Fast, expressive, and versatile, it’s ideal for modern mixes.

The transient-absorbing 1178 compressor is a rare and expensive recording studio legend, cleaner and more versatile than its big brother, the 1176. The 1178 has been used by such great producers as Chris Lord-Alge (My Chemical Romance), Bob Clearmountain (Rolling Stones, Christina Aguilera), Ivan Bing (Phil Collins), and Nigel Godrich (Radiohead).

Our 1178 software (VST/VST3/AU/AAX) faithfully reproduces the original 1178 hardware in terms of tonal characteristics and compression.

But we’ve improved the Pulsar 1178 over the original model, adding all the features you’d expect from a modern, all-in-one plug-in, including a full sidechain EQ for added control, an optional saturation stage for warmth and character, and an accurate meter.

The Pulsar 1178 has a fast and vibrant character, making it an excellent tool for handling unruly transients during recording and mixing. While these qualities make it ideal for processing transients in the drum room to achieve a nasty, rocky bounce, its extended attack range also allows for gentle dynamic contouring and delivers unique clarity and intelligibility for vocals in the midrange.

Pulsar 1178 Main Rack

When it comes to compression, having greater control over the sidechain signal can take your mix to the next level. The dynamics of a drum groove depend on how compression works on both the kick drum and snare. With the Pulsar 1178’s full-featured sidechain EQ, you can achieve the right amount of gain reduction for each.

1178 EQ

Dynamics control is the key to a balanced mix. The Pulsar 1178’s precise and modern metering unit helps with this important task. Peak meters provide an overview of overall dynamics; RMS meters allow you to monitor loudness and match levels; and the scrolling display helps visualize how attack and release settings affect gain reduction.

Pulsar 1178 Meter

Add grit and drive to the typically transparent 1178 with four saturation options: Tape, Triode, Warm, and Clip modes offer new possibilities for controlling dynamics and spectral envelopes. These modes are fully integrated into the compressor’s gain reduction system, allowing for unique sonic expression unattainable with pre- or post-saturation.