Despite analogue tape’s virtual absence from the modern studio, its audio plugin reincarnations are alive and well. We take a look at one of the most affordable to see if it can bring magnetic magic to a mix.
Where Did Tape Go?
After initial flirtations with other media, tape became the industry’s recording and playback medium of choice for decades prior to the digital revolution. Although celebrated by some for having a sound of its own, others quickly migrated from tape to computer-based workflows just as soon as the technology allowed. Those who have used tape will concur that its ‘sound’ consisting of subtle saturation and pitch variations is no magic bullet for retro charm, and that the associated sound is the result of other imperfect equipment stages as well. Other factors such as maintenance, deterioration of tape over time certainly require some determination from those still using it for real.
Why People Still Like It
Despite this, the interest in tape remains, thanks to curious younger engineers and misty-eyed ex-tape users alike. This could be down to the sound of tape-based music and its association with music as a whole. After all, even now, most recorded music in existence still comes from tape. For those who want to impart its flavour, there is the real thing, but its use is prohibitive to most. Step forward a whole range of products promising electro-magnetic charm…
MIA Laboratories 413 Tape Saturator
Hoping to bring the tape aesthetic to the mix is the 413 Tape Saturator from MIA Laboratories. Offering many of the usual suspect controls, this tool still manages to be as concise as it is affordable. The user can choose among three different types of analog tape, each corresponding to the noise and saturation characteristics of three different well known tape brands. A further three distortion types are also available, enabling engineers to recreate the harmonic complexity generated by overdriving valve or solid state circuits. Pre/De-emphasis equalisation curves and flux calibration buttons are also provided.
In the video we use 413 Tape Saturator to impart some extra harmonic interest to a drum subgroup, bass, and whole mix. We explore its distortion flavours that are separately controllable from the main attraction of tape saturation. We dial through its three formulations before adding some final shaping courtesy of its Equalisation and Flux controls
Users can get a 14 day free trial of 413 Tape Saturator. Price is €29.00.