DriveLE: Lite Distortion Effect Plugin by Plugin Boutique

DriveLE uses one distortion algorithm built from six DriveMod algorithms, so you get a single, consistent character rather than a menu of modes. The developer describes it as a way to add warmth, edge and cohesion to a signal.

Up to 8x oversampling is available to reduce aliasing, which the developer says helps keep the distortion clean without artifacts. The make-up gain control lets you match the output level to the input after the effect is applied, so you can judge the change in tone fairly.

Because the plugin is built around a single algorithm, the main adjustments are the drive character you hear and the output balance rather than a deep set of parameters.

The developer suggests DriveLE for adding punch and presence to drums, character to leads and vocals so they stand out, and warmth and edge to 808s and bass so they cut through a mix.

It can also be placed on a bus or the full mix to add cohesion and help glue groups of instruments together.

The plugin ships with 20 presets, which can serve as starting points before you adjust the controls to suit your material.