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Average Price: $49

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$99

$250+

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Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock the iconic sound of Capitol Studios with the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor plug-in, a digital masterpiece inspired by the legendary CM5511 tube compressor. Originally handbuilt for Capitol Studios, this rare piece of gear has shaped countless hits across decades. Now, Universal Audio brings its unparalleled dynamic control right to your DAW, allowing you to infuse your music with the same professional polish. Whether you're tightening up a drum track, enriching synth layers, or adding depth to vocals, this plug-in delivers exceptional audio texture and clarity.

Designed with a nod to vintage Fairchild 670 and Gates Sta-Level limiters, the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor doesn't just mimic history—it modernizes it with exclusive features. Its Saturator control introduces subtle harmonic content, enriching your tracks with warm, analog charm. The Mono Fold and Mid/Side controls offer precision sculpting of your audio landscape, ensuring every element of your mix is perfectly balanced. With comprehensive dBFS/LUFS metering and a versatile sidechain filter, this plug-in isn't just a tool—it's a gateway to the sound of legends.

Key Features:

  • Authentic emulation of Capitol Studios' legendary CM5511 tube compressor
  • Saturator control for adding harmonic richness
  • Mono Fold for focusing low-end frequencies
  • Mid/Side controls for stereo image sculpting
  • Comprehensive dBFS and LUFS metering for modern mastering
  • Sidechain filter with selectable frequencies
  • Flexible attack and release settings for dynamic control
  • Works seamlessly with any audio interface, no UA hardware required

Product specs

Software Type Capitol Mastering Compressor
Platform Mac, PC
Upgrade/Full Full
Download/Boxed Download
Bit Depth 64-bit
Format AAX, AU, VST3 (UAD Native)
Authorization Type iLok Account Required (UADx Native version)
Hardware Requirements - Mac Intel Core 2 Duo or higher, 4GB RAM minimum
Hardware Requirements - PC Intel Core 2 Duo / AMD Athlon 64 X2 or higher, 4GB RAM minimum
OS Requirements - Mac macOS 10.15 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 10 or later

FAQs

What makes the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor unique compared to other mastering compressors?

The Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor emulates the pro sonics of hardware used in iconic remastered catalogs from Capitol, Blue Note, Motown, and Verve. It offers unique features like Saturator, Mix, and Headroom controls, along with Mono Fold and Mid/Side capabilities.

Is the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor plugin compatible with my DAW?

Yes, the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor is compatible with DAWs that support AAX, AU, and VST3 formats, making it versatile for use with most popular digital audio workstations.

Do I need any specific hardware to use the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor?

No specific UA hardware is required to use the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor. It can be used with any audio interface, providing flexibility for various studio setups.

What are the system requirements for the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor on a Mac?

The Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor requires macOS 10.15 or later, an Intel Core 2 Duo or higher processor, and a minimum of 4GB RAM.

Does the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor require any special authorization?

Yes, the Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor requires an iLok account for authorization, specifically for the UADx Native version.

Mixing With Mike

Mixing With Mike

UAD - Capitol Mastering Compressor - Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week

Video thumbnail for UAD - Capitol Mastering Compressor - Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week by Mixing With Mike

UAD - Capitol Mastering Compressor - Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week

Mixing With Mike

Mixing With Mike

Video thumbnail for Universal Audio Capitol Mastering | Demo / Review by Home Recording Made Easy

Universal Audio Capitol Mastering | Demo / Review

Home Recording Made Easy

Home Recording Made Easy

Video thumbnail for BEST MASTERING Compressor? UAD Capitol Mastering Compressor by Archie Beatz

BEST MASTERING Compressor? UAD Capitol Mastering Compressor

Archie Beatz

Archie Beatz

Reviews

PROS

  • Immediate buy for enhancing vocal and two-track mixes

  • Outperforms CLA Mixdown plugin, offering superior mix bus performance

  • Provides a unique sound and vibe compared to SSL Bus Comp

  • Presets offer a wide range of sonic treatments

  • Versatile use for both individual tracks and final mixes

  • Enhances tracks the SSL Bus Comp doesn't "hit right"

  • Broad palette of presets simplifies achieving desired sound quickly

  • Known for taking mixes to a new level

CONS

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Artist usage

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See how Elliot James uses Capitol Mastering Valve Compressor

Elliot James

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Fun fact: This piece is one of two in the world (the others in a vault downstairs haha) + your favorite records went through it ?

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