TASCAM 388: Tape Emulation Plugin by IK Multimedia

The plugin offers the controls you would expect from a tape machine channel. You can adjust the record head bias and EQ, then shape the channel with a 3-band parametric EQ.

The signal path can be set to Input, which passes audio through the electronics only and bypasses the tape, or Repro, which runs the signal through the full recording and playback chain. Input can sound very transparent or slightly more colored, depending on the machine. Repro adds the tape character.

Tape speed selects between 15 and 30 inches per second. The higher speed gives more fidelity, while the lower speed gives a warmer, rounder tone. Record bias can be set for low distortion or overbiased for a gently saturated sound.

TASCAM 388 includes four tape formulas, each with its own character. The 35 formula is modeled after the BASF LPR35, the tape TASCAM recommends for the 388. The 456 formula is modeled after the Ampex 456 and gives a warm, round tone with a slight touch of saturation that responds strongly to recording level.

The GP9 formula is modeled after the Quantegy GP9 and handles higher signal levels with minimal distortion and compression, which suits punchy, modern recordings. The 499 formula is modeled after the Ampex 499 and adds high frequency definition, which can suit cleaner, more digital-leaning recordings while keeping an analog sound.

The plugin also includes a number of presets, and you can save your own settings.