Harmonics: Analog Saturation Plugin by Softube

Harmonics centers on two controls. The Amount knob sets how much saturation is applied, and the Character knob shapes the tone or color of the distortion. Across its five distortion models, the plugin is meant to give clearly different results rather than small variations of one sound.

The key claim is Dynamic Transient Control. Softube says the plugin listens to and analyzes the input signal, so that dynamics and detail can be kept or even enhanced after heavy distortion. This is aimed at the common problem of saturation blurring the attack of drums, guitars and other sources.

A THD meter helps with fine adjustment, which is useful when you want subtle harmonic coloration rather than obvious grit.

Harmonics includes high and low cut filters that can be placed before or after the distortion. Placing them before the saturation stage lets you limit what gets driven into distortion; placing them after shapes the final tone.

The wet/dry blend knob supports parallel processing, so you can mix the saturated signal back with the dry source. This lets you add harmonic content while keeping the original definition of the track.

Softube's source material suggests use on guitars, vocals, drums, bass and synths, where distortion is often needed to help a sound cut through a mix.