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4.7 (69)
$30.00 $25.00 $5.00 · All time low
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$28.00 $23.90 $4.10 · All time low

Price History

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Description

The Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin brings the classic VCA compression tone to your digital audio workstation with a fresh twist of high-tech enhancements. Modeled after the renowned hardware VSC-2 Quad Discrete Compressor, this plugin captures every nuance of the original, delivering a smooth, clear, and precise performance straight to your tracks. Known for its Quad VCA design, the VSC-2 offers an unparalleled level of control and flexibility, making it an essential tool for any serious music producer or audiophile.

Each channel of the VSC-2 features a dedicated VCA in the audio path and another in the audio sidechain, allowing it to handle phase anomalies like a pro, without image shift. Whether you're using it for mastering, mix bus treatment, or as a dual mono compressor, the VSC-2 gives you the power to sculpt your sound with precision. Its innovative ratio control in "Soft" mode ensures seamless compression, adapting to signal intensity for a smooth audio experience.

The versatility of the VSC-2 is further expanded with its ability to switch between stereo and dual mono modes, and its signature Brick mode transforms it into an analog limiter, perfect for taming signal peaks and delivering tight, even transients. With sidechain filter switches and adaptable compression ratios, this plugin is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of analog warmth to their digital creations.

Key Features:

  • Quad VCA design for detailed control
  • Ratio variable from 1:1 in Soft mode to 10:1 in Brick mode
  • Sidechain filter options at 60 Hz and 90 Hz
  • Switchable stereo and dual mono modes
  • Compatible with macOS 10.11 to 13 and Windows 8 to 11
  • Supports AAX DSP, AAX Native, AU, AAX AudioSuite, VST2, VST3

Product specs

Software Type Vintage Compressor
Platform Mac, PC
Upgrade/Full Full
Download/Boxed Download
Bit Depth 64-bit
Format AAX, AU, VST2, VST3
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 11 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 10 or later

FAQs

What are the main features of the Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin?

The Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin emulates the classic VCA compression of the hardware unit, offering precise control and a distinctive sound. It features four custom 1979 VCAs, stereo and dual-mono modes, and a flexible sidechain filter, making it suitable for both subtle dynamics control and aggressive compression.

Is the Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin compatible with my DAW?

Yes, the VSC-2 Compressor Plugin is compatible with most major DAWs, supporting AAX, AU, VST2, and VST3 formats. Ensure your DAW is up-to-date to guarantee compatibility across Windows and macOS platforms.

What are the system requirements for running the Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin on a Mac?

To run the VSC-2 Compressor Plugin on a Mac, you need an Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher, a minimum of 4GB RAM, and macOS 11 or later.

Can the Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin be used for both mixing and mastering?

Yes, the VSC-2 Compressor Plugin is versatile enough for both mixing and mastering applications, providing transparent compression as well as characterful dynamics shaping, depending on your settings.

Does the Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin offer sidechain capabilities?

Yes, the VSC-2 Compressor Plugin includes a sidechain filter, allowing for precise control over which frequencies trigger the compression, beneficial for tasks like ducking in a mix.

pointblank Music School

pointblank Music School

Vertigo VSC-2 Compressor: Plugin of the Week

Video thumbnail for Vertigo VSC-2 Compressor: Plugin of the Week by pointblank Music School

Vertigo VSC-2 Compressor: Plugin of the Week

pointblank Music School

pointblank Music School

Video thumbnail for Vertigo VSC-2 Compressor Plugin Comparison / Plugin Shootout - Uad vs  Plugin Alliance | VST Plugins by Hasan Delen Home Studio

Vertigo VSC-2 Compressor Plugin Comparison / Plugin Shootout - Uad vs Plugin Alliance | VST Plugins

Hasan Delen Home Studio

Hasan Delen Home Studio

Video thumbnail for Plugin Alliance Vertigo VSC-2 Compressor Review by Soundkandy Studio

Plugin Alliance Vertigo VSC-2 Compressor Review

Soundkandy Studio

Soundkandy Studio

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Brainworx Vertigo VSC-2.

Comparisons

  • The VSC-2 is noted as more transparent compared to the Townhouse compressor, which adds color and weight, making the VSC-2 suitable for a broader range of music.

    Source
  • The VSC-2 is described as the "Mercedes of VCA Compressors," praised for its clean, warm, and transparent sound, effectively controlling dynamics.

    Source
  • Users find the VSC-2 offers a beefier bass response than the Townhouse, while the latter provides a grittier midrange.

    Source
  • The VSC-2 is compared to the Shadow Hills compressor, with users noting its clarity and tighter response in certain projects.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The VSC-2 is favored for drum bus applications due to its clean and transparent characteristics, especially in more chilled music styles.

    Source
  • The VSC-2 remains a go-to choice for guitar compression even after acquiring other compressors like the SSL Bus Comp.

    Source
  • The VSC-2 is praised for its versatility, effectively used on the 2-bus, guitars, and drums by various engineers.

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  • The VSC-2 is recommended for two-stage compression setups, enhancing control over dynamic range without overpowering a mix.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Lacks auto makeup gain; users appreciate the simplicity of dialing down the threshold to achieve 3-5 dB of gain reduction.

    Source
  • The VSC-2's dual mono mode is highlighted as a beneficial feature for more customized compression settings.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the VSC-2 for its clear, snappy, and tight compression, especially in dance music applications, offering an alternative to the SSL vibe.

    Source

User experience

  • A frequent user notes that the VSC-2 can practically null against Cytomic's The Glue, highlighting its effective dynamic control.

    Source
  • Users testing the VSC-2 demo report its effectiveness in maintaining transient punch even with fast attack settings.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At a price of $19.99, the VSC-2 is considered an excellent deal, especially when compared to its successor, the VSC-3.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Vertigo VSC2

soundonsound.com

The Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin stands out for its impeccable design and versatile performance, making it a top-tier choice for professional audio engineers. This compressor excels in transparency and precision, offering a sonic range from clarity to punchy power. Features like the discrete VCA element and the lack of an external side-chain input are points of distinction, though the absence of a wet/dry control might be a downside for some users. While its price is steep, the quality and longevity justify the investment, appealing to those looking for a reliable studio workhorse.

positive

Review: Vertigo Sound VSC-2 — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin is the Lamborghini of compressors, delivering stellar performance with its fast, fabulous, and pricey design. Its versatility allows it to shine across a mix bus, enhancing songs with life and clarity. The intuitive controls and high-quality build contribute to its appeal. While the price tag is high, the VSC-2 offers unparalleled results, making it a worthwhile investment for serious engineers. The only downside is the lack of affordability, but its capabilities justify the cost for those seeking top-tier compression.

positive

Review: Vertigo VSC-2 Quad Discrete VCA Compressor Plugin from Brainworx — SonicScoop

sonicscoop.com
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
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larslentz

Great Emulation of a Vertigo Sound Classic

This is a good emulation of the Vertigo Sound VSC-2 VCA compressor. Brainworx and Plugin Alliance have done a nice job of making this thing really nice to work with and true to the original. Note that the VSC-3 plugin from Vertigo Sound has replaced this plugin with all the same functionality plus additional features.

ghostfader

Best comp emulation

Vrtigo is the first plugi released by Brainworx and is still one of the best hardware emulation on the market. Use it mostly on drum bus on most of my projects.

Artist usage

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See how Lorn uses Brainworx Vertigo VSC-2

Lorn

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Shown clearly at beginning of video

See how Freemasons uses Brainworx Vertigo VSC-2

Freemasons

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

James from Freemasons can be seen with this plugin open throughout this video

See how M-22 uses Brainworx Vertigo VSC-2

M-22

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

At 22:33 this plugin is pulled up.

See how Se.Ra.Phic uses Brainworx Vertigo VSC-2

Se.Ra.Phic

Music Producer

...
Verified via Facebook

Se.Ra.Phic utilizes the Vertigo Sound VSC-2 Compressor Plugin, as mentioned in a Facebook post highlighting their preference for Plugin Alliance plugins.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Brainworx Vertigo VSC-2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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