Tube-Tech CL 1B Mk II by Softube compressor plugin interface

Tube-Tech CL 1B Mk II: Opto Compressor Plugin by Softube

Rated 4.8/5 on Plugin Boutique (329 ratings)

Tube-Tech CL 1B Mk II is an optical compressor plugin by Softube, modeled on the Tube-Tech CL 1B and combining the Mk I and Mk II versions in one interface. It is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats for Windows and macOS.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

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01Overview

The Tube-Tech CL 1B Mk II is a compressor plugin from Softube that brings together two versions of the Tube-Tech CL 1B in one interface. A Generation Switch lets you move between the Mk I and Mk II sound without loading a second instance. Softube describes the Mk II as a ground-up sonic remodel of the original, built with newer component modeling and signal processing. The plugin is made in partnership with Tube-Tech and is positioned for vocals, bass, guitar and drums across many genres.

Best for

Vocal compression
Bass compression
Drum bus leveling
Acoustic guitar smoothing
Hip hop mixing
Pop vocal mixing

Developer: Softube
Category: Compressors
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Two versions of the CL 1B in one plugin: Mk I and Mk II
Generation Switch to toggle between Mk I and Mk II sound
Optical compression character suited to transient and body control
Console 1-ready, working as a native plugin and in Console 1
Developed in partnership with and endorsed by Tube-Tech
Available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats
Runs on Windows and macOS in 64-bit

03In depth

Opto Compression Character and Sound

The CL 1B is an opto compressor, and this plugin models that design. Opto compressors tend to grab quickly and then release slowly, with a strongly exponential release curve. Softube says this handles transients transparently, while the body of the material receives a soft, musical leveling as the last part of the gain reduction lingers before the next transient.

Softube describes the sound as warm and smooth, and says it is suited to vocals, where it can be used to smooth and warm up a performance. The developer also says it can be used to add weight to drums and to enrich bass in a mix.

Generation Switch and Workflow

The Generation Switch is the main workflow addition in this version. It toggles the plugin between the Mk I and Mk II versions, so you can compare the two sounds on the same track without changing plugins.

The plugin works as a native plugin in each supported format and also works inside Console 1 Mixing System, which is useful if you use Softube hardware control for your mixing.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Softube
Type	Plugin
Category	Compressor
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is Tube-Tech CL 1B Mk II?

It is an optical compressor plugin by Softube that models the Tube-Tech CL 1B. It includes both the Mk I and Mk II versions, which you can switch between with the Generation Switch.

Which formats and operating systems does it support?

The plugin is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows 10 and Windows 11 (64-bit) and on macOS Big Sur, Monterey and Ventura.

What do I need to use Tube-Tech CL 1B Mk II?

You need a Softube account and an iLok account, a computer with a compatible DAW host supporting AU, VST, VST3 or AAX, and internet access for downloading installers and managing licenses.