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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Pulsar 1178". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Step into the world of vintage sound with the Pulsar 1178, an emulated marvel that brings the legendary FET compressor's magic right into your DAW. Designed for those who demand precision and character, this plugin not only mirrors the tonal brilliance of the original hardware but goes above and beyond with modern enhancements. The Pulsar 1178 is a transient-taming powerhouse, perfect for adding a distinct edge to your mixes. Whether it's infusing your drum room with aggressive energy or giving vocals the punch they need to stand out, you'll revel in the versatility and control this plugin offers.
Equipped with a full sidechain EQ and four unique saturation modes — Tape, Triode, Warm, and Clip — the Pulsar 1178 elevates your sound crafting with its innovative features. Its transparent yet dynamic compression is ideal for everything from subtle dynamic shaping to full-blown signal smashing. The advanced metering system provides clear insights into your dynamics, ensuring every element of your mix is perfectly balanced.
For producers and engineers who crave the authentic touch of a classic with the adaptability of modern technology, the Pulsar 1178 is a game-changer. It’s not just a plugin; it’s a bridge to the iconic soundscapes of the past, now accessible to creators on every level. Dive into the realm of unparalleled sound control and discover what the Pulsar 1178 can do for your music.
Key Features:
- Emulated and enhanced version of a legendary FET compressor
- Transparent sound with aggressive peak-eating behavior
- Lookahead limiting for proactive transient detection
- Full-featured sidechain EQ and external sidechain input
- Four saturation modes: Tape, Triode, Warm, and Clip
- Mid-side processing capability
- Modern metering with peak, RMS, and scrolling views
- Compatible with AAX Native, VST 2.4, VST 3, and Audio Unit formats
Product specs
| Available since | May 2021 |
| Los artikel / bundelartikel | Los artikel |
| 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 |
| Download | 1 |
FAQs
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What makes the Pulsar 1178 compressor plugin unique compared to other compressors?
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The Pulsar 1178 emulates the classic 1176 hardware compressor with a modern twist, offering precise control over dynamics and a unique character that enhances both subtle and aggressive compression tasks.
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Is the Pulsar 1178 suitable for mastering applications?
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Yes, the Pulsar 1178 is designed with mastering tools in mind, providing transparent compression and a range of controls that are ideal for fine-tuning the dynamics of a mix.
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Does the Pulsar 1178 plugin support sidechain compression?
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Yes, the Pulsar 1178 supports sidechain compression, allowing users to create dynamic mixes by ducking audio signals based on an external input source.
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Can the Pulsar 1178 be used with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?
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The Pulsar 1178 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Pro Tools, ensuring seamless integration into your existing workflow.
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How does the Pulsar 1178 handle different audio sources, such as vocals or drums?
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The Pulsar 1178 excels at processing a variety of audio sources, offering both smooth and aggressive compression settings that suit vocals, drums, and other instruments effectively.
Videos
Puremix
The Great Big Plugin Show | @PulsarPlugins 1178 most versatile compressor EVER ?
Reviews
PROS
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Achieves higher quality than older compression plugins according to some users
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Reminds users of hardware units in terms of behavior and sound
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Sounds particularly good on acoustic guitar
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Installation is straightforward and the software is stable
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Acceptable CPU usage during operation
CONS
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Lacks a threshold control, making the clipper function less useful
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Saturation feature is limited, often feels all-or-nothing
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Does not hit as hard as other FET plugins
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Feels like a 'jack of all trades, master of none' product
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Pulsar 1178.
Features and functionality
Software and compatibility
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Users with Apple Silicon M1 Macs report tracking with Pulsar 1178 at lower latency than UAD Apollo setups.
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User experience
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Some owners prefer Pulsar's code efficiency and resource management, particularly appreciating the low CPU usage compared to UAD plugins.
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Owners report that despite not needing another 1176-style compressor, the 1178 becomes indispensable after use, frequently appearing in subsequent projects.
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Comparisons
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Pulsar's Massive Passive plugin includes features like auto-gain and compensated drive, which are not present in UAD's version, offering a different user experience.
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Although it's a compressor, the distortion modes receive mixed reactions, with some users preferring standalone plugins for distortion tasks.
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Users note that the 1178 is crisper and cleaner compared to Black Rooster VFET and Arturia 1176, offering more versatility without sacrificing punch.
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Use cases and applications
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Pulsar plugins are favored by sound designers for game audio due to their feature richness and versatility in tone shaping.
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Owners highlight its effectiveness on vocals, drums, bass, and busses, noting its snappy response akin to the 1176.
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The presets are considered particularly useful, indicating target gain reduction, which some users find lacking in other compressor plugins.
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The 1178 is praised for its flexibility in different projects, often becoming a go-to choice for users seeking a clean, punchy sound without excessive coloration.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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