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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Brainworx (Plugin Alliance) Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A Plug-in". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into the sonic universe of unparalleled precision with the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A, a digital reincarnation of the legendary analog hardware. This compressor plugin is not just a tool, but an experience that empowers you to sculpt your sound with the ultimate finesse. Whether you're in the final stages of mastering or crafting a new track, the two-stage compression system with separate optical and discrete circuits ensures every detail is perfectly captured and enhanced.

Venture into a world of tonal diversity with switchable output transformers that let you effortlessly toggle between Nickel, Iron, and Steel settings, each offering a distinct sonic signature. This versatility is further enhanced by the plugin's ability to operate in stereo, dual mono, or M/S modes, giving you the flexibility to adapt to any mix scenario. The inclusion of both internal and external sidechains provides added control, allowing for more nuanced dynamic manipulation.

Designed for both the novice and the seasoned pro, the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A features a user-friendly, scalable interface, ensuring that you can easily navigate its powerful features. With its Patented Tolerance Modelling Technology (TMT), this plugin simulates the subtle nuances of analog hardware, delivering a truly authentic sound experience.

Key Features:

  • Precise emulation of the original Class A Limited Edition
  • Separate optical and discrete compression stages
  • Switchable output transformers: Nickel, Iron, and Steel
  • Internal and external sidechain capability
  • Stereo, dual mono, and M/S operation
  • Headroom control for optimal gain staging
  • Stereo base widening with adjustable mono maker for low frequencies
  • Patented Tolerance Modelling Technology (TMT)
  • Scalable user interface

Product specs

Available since April 2024
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Delay No
Dynamics Yes
Effect Filter No
Encoder/Decoder No
Equalizer No
Guitar amps/-effects No
Channel Strip No
Metering / Analysis / Correction No
Modulation Effects No
Multieffect / Plugin-Host No
Overdrive/Distortion No
Preamp / Saturation No
Psychoacoustic tool / Enhancer / Exciter No
Restauration No
Reverb No
Special FX No
Summer / Mixing Consoles No
Tape Simulation No
Pitch Shifter / Harmonizer / Timestretching No
Transient Processing No
Vocoder / Vocal effect No
Mastering Tools Yes
Hardware Controller No
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FAQs

What makes the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A unique?

The Class A version of the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor offers a thicker and richer tone due to its Class A circuitry, providing a fuller sound compared to other versions.

Is the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A suitable for mastering?

Yes, the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A is specifically designed for mastering, offering precise control over dynamics to enhance the final mix.

Does the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A have built-in EQ or reverb effects?

No, the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A focuses solely on dynamic processing and does not include built-in EQ or reverb effects.

Can the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A be used with any DAW?

Yes, the Plugin Alliance Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A is compatible with major DAWs that support VST, AU, or AAX plugin formats.

What kind of sound can I expect from the optical section of the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A?

The optical section of the Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A provides a smooth and vintage-style compression, ideal for adding warmth and character to your tracks.

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Shadow Hills - Mastering Compressor Class A Walkthrough | Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for Shadow Hills - Mastering Compressor Class A Walkthrough | Plugin Alliance by Plugin Alliance

Shadow Hills - Mastering Compressor Class A Walkthrough | Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Video thumbnail for Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A - Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week by Mixing With Mike

Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A - Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week

Mixing With Mike

Mixing With Mike

Video thumbnail for Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A | New from Brainworx and Plugin Alliance by Green Light Sound

Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A | New from Brainworx and Plugin Alliance

Green Light Sound

Green Light Sound

Video thumbnail for Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Compressor: Plugin Alliance’s best of the best plugins: by Plugin Alliance

Shadow Hills Class A Mastering Compressor: Plugin Alliance’s best of the best plugins:

Plugin Alliance

Plugin Alliance

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Brainworx (Plugin Alliance) Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A Plug-in.

Features and functionality

  • The Shadow Hills Compressor Class A allows selectable transformer settings, which provide distinctly different sounds according to users.

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  • The compressor features both opto and VCA compressors, which can be used separately or together, enhancing its versatility on buses, masters, and tracks.

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  • The Nickel transformer setting is praised for enhancing guitar presence and adding sparkle, making it ideal for mixes where guitars need to stand out.

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  • Some users prefer using the compressor's transformer options solely for color without engaging the compression, finding it adds desirable tonal curves and character.

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  • The Class A model includes parallel and headroom controls, which users find beneficial for flexibility and tone shaping on various sources.

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Use cases and applications

  • The compressor is praised for its gentle, open sound when using the VCA comp in dual mono with iron transformer settings.

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  • While not primarily used for mastering, the SH Classic is considered effective as a drum crush compressor by some users.

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  • Users find the Shadow Hills Class A version particularly effective for indie rock mixes, where its tonal adjustments bring out vocal and guitar elements.

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  • Owners frequently utilize the Class 1A for guitar buses, citing its ability to enhance and open up the sound significantly.

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  • The Class A version is often used across multiple sources, indicating its adaptability in diverse mixing scenarios beyond just mastering.

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Comparisons

  • The Class A is described as grittier and more aggressive compared to the regular Shadow Hills model, with more grabby response times.

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  • Despite trying the UAD SSL, SSL Native Bus, and BX Townhouse, users consistently return to the SHMC for its ability to make mixes sound more polished and "record-like."

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  • Users note that the Class A model delivers a noticeably more open and expansive sound compared to the regular Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor.

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User experience

  • Some users find the skeuomorphic interface of Shadow Hills compressors challenging, affecting usability compared to physical units.

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  • Owners highlight the SHMC's unique EQ and imaging capabilities, which are challenging to replicate with other compressors, enhancing mix depth and character.

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