Pricing and availability

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Plugin Boutique
4.8 (752)
$149.00 $74.50 $74.50 · All time low
Guitar Center
$149.00 $74.50 $74.50 · All time low
Thomann
4.3 (3)
$146.00 $67.00 $79.00 · All time low

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Output THERMAL". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash a new world of sonic possibilities with the Output THERMAL, a distortion plugin that redefines what's possible in audio design. This powerful tool is more than just a distortion plugin; it's a multi-stage engine for sound manipulation. With over 19 analog and digital distortion algorithms, THERMAL lets you go beyond the ordinary, offering an expansive palette of sounds that can be both subtle and extreme.

Perfect for sound designers and musicians alike, THERMAL features a user-friendly interface that allows for intricate control over every element of your sound. The interactive circular XY control is a standout feature, offering intuitive morphing between distortion parameters. Whether you're looking to add subtle warmth or create aggressive, groundbreaking textures, THERMAL's 250+ presets provide endless inspiration.

Dive deeper into sound manipulation with the Advanced Mode, where you can tweak modulation envelopes, effects, and imaging. The plugin includes nine integrated effects, complete with a master compressor and filter, adding further dimension to your tracks. With its ability to shape audio across various sources—drums, vocals, guitars, and more—THERMAL is the ultimate distortion tool for any genre.

Key Features:

  • Multi-stage distortion with 19 analog and digital algorithms
  • Circular XY control for interactive parameter modulation
  • Advanced Mode for full parameter access
  • 9 built-in effects including time-based, harmonic, and modulation effects
  • Compatible with Mac and PC, supporting AAX, AU, VST, and VST3 formats
  • Over 250 presets for immediate creative possibilities
  • Intuitive interface with waveform display and modulation options
  • Ideal for a wide range of sound sources including drums, vocals, and guitars

Product specs

Available since June 2020
Los artikel / bundelartikel Los artikel
Delay No
Dynamics No
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 Yes
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 No
Hardware Controller No
Download 1

FAQs

What type of distortion does Output THERMAL provide?

Output THERMAL offers a multi-stage distortion engine that allows for a wide range of distortion effects, from subtle warmth to intense, complex textures, making it highly versatile for sound design.

Is Output THERMAL compatible with major DAWs?

Yes, Output THERMAL is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and others, ensuring seamless integration into your production setup.

Can Output THERMAL be used for live performances?

Output THERMAL is designed with a user-friendly interface and real-time control options, making it suitable for both studio production and live performance settings.

Does Output THERMAL require a lot of CPU power?

Output THERMAL is optimized for efficient CPU usage, but as with any advanced plugin, the complexity of your patches and your system's specifications will affect performance.

What makes Output THERMAL different from other distortion plugins?

Output THERMAL stands out due to its intuitive interface and deeply customizable multi-stage distortion engine, which allows for intricate sound design and unique distortion textures.

Output

Output

THERMAL by Output | Interactive Distortion FX Plugin

Video thumbnail for THERMAL by Output | Interactive Distortion FX Plugin by Output

THERMAL by Output | Interactive Distortion FX Plugin

Output

Output

Video thumbnail for Thermal by Output | New Distortion & Saturation VST Plugin | Tutorial & Review of Key Features by Plugin Boutique

Thermal by Output | New Distortion & Saturation VST Plugin | Tutorial & Review of Key Features

Plugin Boutique

Plugin Boutique

Video thumbnail for THERMAL by Output | Interactive Distortion FX Plugin | Quick Overview by Output

THERMAL by Output | Interactive Distortion FX Plugin | Quick Overview

Output

Output

Video thumbnail for Thermal by Output | Deep Dive Tutorial | Saturation & Distortion Multi-Effect VST Plugin by Joshua Casper

Thermal by Output | Deep Dive Tutorial | Saturation & Distortion Multi-Effect VST Plugin

Joshua Casper

Joshua Casper

Video thumbnail for Output Thermal 🌋 4 Best Ways To Use by This Is Onesto

Output Thermal 🌋 4 Best Ways To Use

This Is Onesto

This Is Onesto

Video thumbnail for Output Thermal VS Fabfilter Saturn 2 VST! Which is better? by Ave Mcree

Output Thermal VS Fabfilter Saturn 2 VST! Which is better?

Ave Mcree

Ave Mcree

Video thumbnail for AVR 069 - Output Thermal (БОЛЬШЕ чем Distortion) by andivax

AVR 069 - Output Thermal (БОЛЬШЕ чем Distortion)

andivax

andivax

Video thumbnail for 1 hour sound design w/ Output Thermal by DATABROTH

1 hour sound design w/ Output Thermal

DATABROTH

DATABROTH

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Output THERMAL.

Features and functionality

  • Presets are noted for their high quality, especially the Mix Bus presets that add body and width without overpowering the mix.

    Source

User experience

  • Thermal is described as CPU-heavy, requiring users to manage buffer sizes or freeze/print tracks to audio to prevent lag.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Multiple instances of Thermal in a chain can create complex, layered sounds, particularly effective on basslines.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Arturia’s EFX and Other Desert Cities from Audio Damage are suggested as more affordable alternatives to Portal.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Output does not offer trials or demos, but Splice’s rent-to-own program allows for a free 3-day trial.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Output: THERMAL Distortion Plug-In | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

Output THERMAL is a treasure trove for distortion lovers, merging simplicity with deep customization. Its impressive array of modules, including Delay and Reverb, allows for creative sound manipulation that can breathe life into any track. The intuitive presets inspire users right from the start, making it accessible even for those intimidated by its complexity. However, the automation interface can be confusing, particularly for Pro Tools users, and the multitude of similarly-named parameters can lead to frustration. Despite these quirks, the overall experience is powerful and rewarding, making THERMAL a worthwhile addition for musicians seeking innovative sound design.

positive

Output Thermal review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Output THERMAL delivers a versatile and creative distortion experience, boasting a broad array of impressive styles and additional processing capabilities. Its intuitive design, featuring a stylish XY pad and over 250 well-organized presets, enriches the creative process. However, the lack of a one-shot or MIDI-triggered option for envelopes may limit its appeal to some users. Ultimately, Thermal excels in sound quality and flexibility, making it a compelling choice for musicians seeking inspiration and depth in their distortion effects.

positive

Output Thermal

soundonsound.com

Thermal is a playground for the experimental musician, offering a rich palette of distortion effects that range from subtle warmth to aggressive modulation. Its intuitive interface, despite the complexity, facilitates creative sound manipulation, making it easy to transform basic sounds into intricate textures. However, while the presets are plentiful, relying solely on them limits the plugin's potential. Additionally, those with less adventurous production styles may find it less essential. Overall, Thermal shines in diverse genres, particularly in electronic and ambient music, allowing for a fresh take on traditional sounds.

positive

Output Thermal Review

musictech.com

Output's Thermal is a striking distortion plug-in that pairs slick design with impressive sound-shaping capabilities. With 19 distortion algorithms and an intuitive interface, it excels in creating everything from subtle warmth to aggressive textures. The extensive preset library is particularly inspiring, allowing users to dive in without extensive knowledge. However, the online manual is lacking, making it challenging for newcomers to fully grasp its advanced features. Additionally, the effects section, while functional, might not excite seasoned sound designers. Despite these minor drawbacks, Thermal is a solid investment for anyone looking to elevate their mixing and sound design game.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
j_o_e

My Goto for

Distortion. I use this for guitars. Vocals. Drums. Sometimes bass and synths too. Love what Output did here.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andrew Huang uses Output THERMAL

Andrew Huang

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible in this October 26, 2020 video at 7:24.

See how Slushii uses Output THERMAL

Slushii

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram Video, You can see Slushii making a track and at 0:42 you can see Output THERMAL in the plugin list.

See how Eats Everything uses Output THERMAL

Eats Everything

Music Producer, DJ

Coat of Arms

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Eats Everything breaks down his track We Lost Ourselves and Found a Family – In The Studio" by MusicRadar Tech on YouTube, at 33:13, Dan Pearce, also known as Eats Everything, can be seen using the Output THERMAL plugin.

See how Rezo uses Output THERMAL

Rezo

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Rezo uses Output THERMAL to add a subtle overdrive effect to a vocal synth, as demonstrated in a live remix session with Julien Bam, highlighted on his YouTube stream.

A

ABSOLUTE.

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

At 7:26 in the video "ABSOLUTE. Makes A Club Track From Scratch" by DJ Mag on YouTube, ABSOLUTE. is observed using the Output THERMAL plugin.

Album Usage

The Output THERMAL has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Output THERMAL, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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