Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (3)
$299.00
Thomann
4.8 (6)
$193.00 $192.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $230

High-end/Boutique

$59

$200+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Softube American Class A". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash the full potential of your music production with the Softube American Class A channel strip plugin. Whether you're mixing gut-busting drums or crafting rich, up-front vocals, this plugin brings the legendary sound of American mixing console hardware right to your DAW. Its simple yet powerful interface makes it easy to inject a truckload of character into your tracks, whether you're aiming for those iconic rock band vibes or something more subtle.

The American Class A is equipped with a versatile shape section featuring a gate and transient designer, allowing for precise control over your sound's dynamics. Its four-band EQ with proportional Q and range control ensures that your frequencies are sculpted with precision, while the switchable feedback and feedforward compressor design gives you unparalleled flexibility. And let's not forget the warm, crunchy output drive section that adds that final touch of analog warmth to your productions.

Perfectly suited for both standalone use and integration with Console 1, this plugin offers seamless workflow enhancements for users of the Console 1 system. It's a complete workhorse that can replace stock DAW mixing tools, enhancing your mix with boldness and clarity. Whether you're pushing your synths to new heights or adding grunt to your bass lines, the American Class A is your go-to for dynamic and powerful sound shaping.

Key Features:

  • Authentic American mixing console sound for Console 1 or standalone use
  • License covers both Console 1 and native plugin versions
  • Stepped EQ with proportional Q for bold boosts and clean cuts
  • Switchable feedback/feedforward compressor design
  • Integrated gate and transient shaper in the shape section
  • Crunchy drive controllable from the output stage
  • Compatible with AU, VST, VST3, and AAX DAWs
  • MacOS and Windows compatible, with support for both Intel and Apple silicon processors

Product specs

Available since June 2018
Los artikel / bundelartikel Los artikel
Delay No
Dynamics Yes
Effect Filter No
Encoder/Decoder No
Equalizer Yes
Guitar amps/-effects No
Channel Strip Yes
Metering / Analysis / Correction No
Modulation Effects No
Multieffect / Plugin-Host No
Overdrive/Distortion No
Preamp / Saturation Yes
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 is the Softube American Class A plugin based on?

The Softube American Class A is based on classic American mixing console hardware, designed to deliver character and ease of use in both Console 1 and native plugin formats.

Does the Softube American Class A plugin include an equalizer?

Yes, the Softube American Class A plugin includes an equalizer, allowing users to shape their sound with precision.

Can the Softube American Class A plugin be used for dynamics processing?

Yes, the plugin includes dynamics processing, enabling users to control compression and other dynamic effects within their mix.

Is the Softube American Class A plugin suitable for adding preamp saturation?

Yes, the plugin offers preamp and saturation features, allowing users to add warmth and depth to their audio tracks.

Does the Softube American Class A plugin work as a standalone channel strip?

Yes, it functions as a standalone channel strip plugin, providing a comprehensive set of tools for mixing and shaping audio.

SoftubeStudios

SoftubeStudios

American Class A Demo – Softube

Video thumbnail for American Class A Demo – Softube by SoftubeStudios

American Class A Demo – Softube

SoftubeStudios

SoftubeStudios

Video thumbnail for Softube - American Class A - Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week by Mixing With Mike

Softube - American Class A - Mixing With Mike Plugin of the Week

Mixing With Mike

Mixing With Mike

Video thumbnail for Softube American Class A | API CHANNEL STRIP REVIEW by Home Recording Made Easy

Softube American Class A | API CHANNEL STRIP REVIEW

Home Recording Made Easy

Home Recording Made Easy

Video thumbnail for Softube American Class A Sound Demo (no talking) by Bonedo Synthesizers

Softube American Class A Sound Demo (no talking)

Bonedo Synthesizers

Bonedo Synthesizers

Video thumbnail for Console 1 - American Class A Review by Blades Music

Console 1 - American Class A Review

Blades Music

Blades Music

Video thumbnail for A   PEEE   AIIIII!   IT'S THE SOFTUBE AMERICAN CLASS A! by Studio Life

A PEEE AIIIII! IT'S THE SOFTUBE AMERICAN CLASS A!

Studio Life

Studio Life

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Softube American Class A.

Comparisons

  • Owners who have tried several channel strips, including those from Waves and Plug-in Alliance, prefer the Softube American Class A for its intuitive controls and overall improvement to sound.

    Source
  • Users often prefer Softube plugins over UAD, citing a more immediate click and quality experience with Softube's offerings.

    Source
  • Users favor Softube American Class A for its API-style proportional Q, offering clarity with character, over other channel strips like SSL and Neve for channel mixing.

    Source
  • Softube American Class A is recommended over other console emulations for users who prefer API's clarity and character, avoiding the more complex SSL and Neve approaches for quick tasks.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Frequently used on drums, especially snares, indicating a strong performance in enhancing percussion elements within a mix.

    Source
  • Console 1 is frequently integrated with Fabfilter and UAD plugins, enhancing the mixbus with warmth and clarity.

    Source
  • Console 1 is used in diverse genres but tends to be avoided on vocal buses, which require specialized EQs and compressors.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Users appreciate the responsive and intuitive controls, making it easy to enhance audio sources with minimal effort.

    Source
  • Console 1's MIDI learn feature allows mapping of plugins, but users find it confusing when mapped to non-labelled sections.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the default SSL 4k channel strip but often mix and match with other modules like Neve and FET mk ii for varied sound textures.

    Source
  • The plugin excels in offering a quick API workflow with proportional Q, praised for its ease in achieving clarity without dullness or excessive smoothness, especially in quick channel mixing tasks.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The plugin often goes on sale, with $125 noted as a common price point, suggesting potential savings for patient buyers.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • An iLok account is required for use, which may be an essential consideration for potential purchasers.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners with hybrid setups route multiple stereo buses through outboard gear before summing, showing Console 1's flexibility in complex studio environments.

    Source
  • Owners find the Softube American Class A preferable for its stellar sound, aligning with API characteristics that provide clarity and character in music production.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Softube American Class A – DJBooth

djbooth.net

Softube American Class A is a powerhouse plugin that captures the aggressive, punchy essence of API's iconic sound. Its standout compressor and EQ breathe life into your mixes, transforming flat sounds into vibrant, character-rich audio. The intuitive GUI enhances usability, making it a joy to work with. However, its assertive nature may overwhelm those seeking subtlety, and the absence of an HPF sidechain for the compressor is a notable drawback. While it's one of the best channel strips available, its fierce approach might not suit every project. Overall, it's a highly recommended tool for those ready to unleash bold sonic transformations.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Softube Channel Strip Plugins

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar